I dunno wether to kick my dad or love him dont know if I told you guys but dad went down to adelaide on his own in the motor home, and only stayed there a few days and was supposed to be at Gundagia tonite, after travelling from Balranald but he got home tonite, 780 k's ,9 hours in one day, alot for some one his age (87) am i too worried? i kind of wish that rta didint give him his lisence but , i dunno. I love him, i know he needs his own thing, and if only it worked out between us and the van but i felt never again after our last trip.. but ive talked to every one and no one cares, yet they talk about this on the radio,tv etc..
I don't know that I could drive 780 kms in one day, and I'm a lot younger than your Dad! I know you worry about him but perhaps he just needs to do his own thing and I take my hat off to him for having a go at his age.
Is he dangerous on the road to himself and others in your opinion ? Is that why you won't go with him anymore? Or is it you just can't get on together on a long trip? I don't mean to be personal but I just wondered what your concerns are.
Like Ma said, it is probably just as well he got home when he did, perhaps after driving all that way he will need a good rest now before he sets off again so will give you a "worry" break.
Vic
__________________
VDU (Formerly VHW but re-registered due to pc problems)
Geez Milo, I can understand how you feel. But he's got the right, (and the Drivers licence) to go and do whatever he likes. Even though you might be worried sick, because you love him you just have to allow him his choices.... hardest thing you'll ever have to do!
That is certainly a great feat for your dad Milo, I couldn't have done it. just be pleased he got home safely and love him, at his age he might not be around forever.
I lost my parents both at an early age. Dad at 55 and Mum at 67. I sure would like them to be around and be able to laugh at some of the antics they could have enjoyed.
he can be dicy on the road sometimes, most ok , but every once in a while ..
Is a driving test compulsory after a certain age in your state? I'm sure if you spoke to his GP or local police about your concerns this could be arranged. You have a responsibility to both your Dad as well as other road users to ensure he is safe. If he passes the test then you have to let him go with a hug and a prayer for his safe return. He probably felt the same about when you got your licence and drove off on your own as he watched and waved goodbye
__________________
Jenny and Barry
2009 Roma Elegance / 2013 Colorado. Permanent travellers 2011-2015 now just travel for 4-6 mths
He must have done something right milo, to get his licence renewed just recently, and as you say you have approached everybody you can think of about your concerns. I know there are a lot of old dodderies out on the road, but if they are passing all the tests what do you do. My neighbour who is in his 80s had his usual eye test about 6 months ago, came home said thats it Have handed my licence back in and will put the car up for sale. Eyes not good enough to be driving. Now thats what I call being responsible. No one would have even known but he did so acted appropriately. He's happy taking the bus.