Dear Abby: Elderly Dad Won’t Stop Driving Despite Safety Concerns

Abigail Van Buren's daughter, who is in her 80s, is experiencing difficulties in maintaining her relationship with her father, who recently became very ill and nearly died. Despite being unable to walk for several months, he has resumed driving his truck, which has caused concern among his children. Their stepmother has encouraged him to continue driving, despite repeated pleas from the family to consider safety. This situation has led to significant tension, especially considering that their mother was killed in a car accident when Van Buren's daughter was 14 and her brother was 18.

The family is deeply worried that the father's condition and the decision to drive could pose a danger to him and others. The daughters are contemplating informing local authorities about their father's potential risk due to his disability and are considering seeking assistance from his doctor. The ongoing situation has exacerbated family conflicts and raised concerns about respecting the memory of their late mother.