My Dad is 76. After my Mum died 5 years ago he moved closer to us. I am only near relative, therefore have sort of assumed the responsibility for him .
He lives alone in a retirement flat, and has mostly been OK so far.
But in the last 6-8 months he has developed a tremor in his hands - firstly one, and then both. I think he is also showing other signs of a health problem - speech a bit less clear, less steady on feet etc.
When I first mentioned to him (about 7 months ago) that I thought he should see a doctor he just evaded my comment, and said he was 'fine', and that he was due for a check up in the 'New Year' anyway.
As I've seen things progress I recently asked about his check up and he says it's not until May.
Although I suggested he make an appointment sooner (saying I would go with him if he wanted) he is basically ignoring me and saying he'll 'think about it' - which means he won't...
I really don't know what to do. As his only close relative who sees him regularly, I feel I am responsible for making him take his health seriously
BUT his preference really seems to be one of 'ignorance is bliss' as if he doesn't want to confront any diagnosis. I can sort of understand this, as he had to nurse my Mum through a long illness, and knows how depressing the whole NHS/ hospital thing can be.
But if I don't persuade him to go, and then we later find out that it's something that has progressed beyond a treatable point, then I will forever feel like it's my fault, and I am to blame?
I suspect he probably has the beginnings of Parkinson's.
I don't know how to handle this.