As someone who is now getting up in age, I can really appreciate what your Dad is feeling. It is tough to find you are on the downhill side of life, and all the things you once had are slipping away.

You have to understand that he was once the head of his household, and was the strength everyone else looked to. Now he is in the position of having to have others make decisions for him and do things for him that he once did. Simple things like getting in your car and going to the store are now taken away because someone, either the State or family, decides that you are no longer fit to operate a car. Health starts to fade, and every day becomes more and more of a challenge to get through without being ill or injuring yourself.

Just imagine if you were suddenly put into this position. I know it will be tough on you, and you are going to have to make changes in your life. One thing you may face is having to deal with a spouse who does not relish the idea, however, he is blood, and she is not. This is payback time for all the diapers he changed on you, all the school plays he attended, and all the lessons he took the time to teach you. I think it is very admirable that you are stepping up to the plate and doing the right thing.

There will be times when it is tough, older people start being difficult. Some of that comes from the internal anger they feel about simply getting older. But when the day comes when he is no longer here, you will have a clear conscience and won't ever have to feel guilty about "I should have done more."

My ex-Girlfriend was a perfect Daughter to her Mom, right up to the end. I watched how she looked after her Mom and made sure we would spend time with her and look after her needs. I learned a lot from the way she did that.

Good luck, and yes, it is ok to vent and have some of the feelings you are having.

Don