Hi. In recent months my 62 y/o father has exhibited behavioral changes which have resulted in him acting unlike himself. He is combative, always arguing and refuses to ever accept he's wrong, everyone's against him apparently, he's saying we are disappointments and he's gonna leave our family and never return. He's irritable and isolated and it's impossible to speak to him. I've tried gently bringing up him seeing a mental health professional and he gets angry and tells me I'm the one who needs pills and mental help. I've tried to inquire if he's in a depression and he yells back "you are in a depression" etc. I'm at my wits end. I love my dad and I need him, I need him to be healthy and be around, but I don't know what to do anymore. I dont know if this is old age, or a bigger mental health issue. Does anyone have advice?
4 Answers
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Do you live with him? How much contact do you have with him?
UTIs can cause weird behavior in seniors, but that is usually older than 62. Still, it is a very simple lab test and is worth checking.
Something is clearly causing a change in his behavior. Starting with his PCP for something other than a mental health issue, like a UTI, might be the way to start.
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Is Dad still working? Could something at work be bothering him? Are there financial issues to worry him? If your mom is in the picture, could there be issues there?
Like FF said, he really does need to see his doctor. Level with him in a calm moment and tell him you love him and you’re worried about him.