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My 94yr old husband has had non-tremor Parkinson's for 12 years now. He cannot walk and uses a power scooter. We have aides until 10pm daily. However, the issue is that he is banging into walls and furniture with the scooter. When I tell him the scooter is not good for him anymore, he has threatened to cut me off financially, or at least alludes to it. We have a loving relationship otherwise, but this is not fair. Any ideas?

Sort of freedom Vs what's reasonable. His freedom vs not wrecking walls.

I can see why your DH would be angry at the potential loss of his freedom. Threats about money said in anger - I'd ignore this. Is he able to discuss this with REASON when calm?

You mention scootering around the home & building?

What are the safety & risk levels?
Is he endangering himself?
Is there risk he would hit a person or pet?

If no, or very low risk, is it possible to improve safety further?
* Remove non-essential furniture
* Simplfy his pathway inside
* Have the aide accompany him of in a foyer, or other shared spaces. Obviously you can't move walls.. can you add foam padding or buffers to his scooter?

I have seen my LO make a few small bumps in their own home. I have begun to worry too. Especially if they visit a private building & dint that - they could be liable for an expensive damage bill.

Best of luck, it's another version of the Do I take the car keys away problem.
Helpful Answer (3)
Reply to Beatty
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If the scooter is battery operated (most are), loosen the cables off the battery so that it won't work.
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Reply to Taarna
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Sally047 Jun 3, 2025
That is what we did with my husband’s wheelchair and it worked great!
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I have to agree with the fact that he is alive, and probably really enjoys his scooter. Relationships are very fragile, all of them! Maybe he made a comment regarding funds, because he knows you are making a threat to take away his freedom. Respect each other, and remember all the happy years together. You do need to talk together about you paying bills one day when he may not be able to do them. I would hope the finances are equal between you both, not him controlling you. You need each other and money should not come between you at this point.
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Reply to Tiger8
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Remove the furniture from his path. It’s just stuff. I wish my husband was alive to run into my furniture.
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Reply to Blondi1950THIN
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the things he’s damaging are replaceable. Let him ride! He’s alive and apparently spunky, be thankful. You can get new furniture when he’s gone!
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Reply to Bohac2
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If your husband can no longer walk, and you don't want him using his scooter anymore, how do you expect him to get around?
Are you willing to push him around in a wheelchair, and are you physically able to?
If not, perhaps take away some of the furniture(have it put in the garage or a storage unit) so he has more of an open space to drive around in.
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Reply to funkygrandma59
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Has your husband been tested for dementia ?
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Reply to waytomisery
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