I've got a Dad who lives 75 miles away with mobility problems. Any advice?

If your father is of sound mind then he makes all the decisions concerning his life. You don't lose your independence, just because you age. When your father shows signs of dementia is the time for all your worry. While it is good to be prepared, you have years before you need to step in. Relax your time for caregiving wil come soon enough. Can he move closer to be with you?

He could but he chooses not to at this point. I appreciate the feedback very much. I just worry that he could fall and I'd not know it for quite some time. He does a good job except for his ability to move about. I worry about his drive way but he puts his trash in the back of his car and takes it up to the top. He has slowed down quite a bit in the last year simply from the stenosis. He has nerve damage in his legs that makes moving painful at times and cumbersome. I guess I'm just worrying needlessly but I would love to figure out a way to keep an eye out for changes that might point to some type of new problem. Thanks Kathy!

The hardest part i the worry. Trust me from hard won experience, bad things happen and all your worry can't stop it. You can talk to your Dad about your concerns. Always put your suggestion in the form of a question, such as "do you think you should have some plans in case an accident happens. You need to spend this time forging a bond of trust. Don't go behind his back. Don't make any plans without his approval. He is your Dad he tells you what to do, not you tell him. Give him respect, and the trust he knows what is best for him, and he will let you help. This is vital, listen and do what he says. Ten years from now when he will need your help, you will have a working relationship.

If you are really worried call him every day. Have a person you can call, a relative, friend of your Dad, who will check up on your Dad, if he doesn't answer. Tip his mailman, and ask him to call you if your Dad's mail builds up.

Thanks a ton. I do call him daily and get down there 2 times a month. I've approached the subject but he is not ready, so I back off. He is doing ok for now. I'll take your advice to heart and continue on the road we are on for now. Thank you.