How can I encourage my Dad (86) to visit his primary care physician?

Thank you for the replies. My Dad is not open to discussing POA at this point. I am trying to get them to be open to the possibility of relocating closer to me. They are really not safe in their house anymore, but they cannot see that. I think my Mom would move, but my Dad hasn't been open to this. My brother lives in the same city, but is mentally challenged and they have been his support.

What often happens in families is nothing is done until some emergency occurs. Then you have to scramble around to make other accommodations for a parent who can now no longer live at home. So you need to start thinking about and planning for that possibility now, so that when it happens (and it will), you're ready with a plan.

If your parents are no longer able to live on their own, will they stay in their same city/state or move nearer you? Is your brother actively involved or will he be? My parents moved near me when their need became greater because my brother would never have been willing/able to take the necessary care of them. I lived in the same state, but they had to move 200 miles to be near me.

Also, make sure powers of attorney for both health care and property are in place (or ready to go if they're not done yet). Start researching living wills and what your parents would want if something happens. They may not be willing to discuss these things now, but don't let that stop you from researching different options on your own so that you're ready to step in and pick up the pieces.

You can research places in their town if you think you'll stay there, or look for places near you if you think they might move.

Who hass POA? Are you sure these are done? If dad is competent thee poa may not have even been activated yet. Nothing you can really do since dad will not see doc. When there is a hospitalization be ready to express all of your concerns.