my dad is 83 is giving up hasnt ate for a week and contiues to drink vodka urines himself losing control what to do

im confused they say hen has the right if we call 911 to check himself out of thr hospital but he is a danger to him self  my dads a alchhlic  82 years old drinks all day passes out vomits hasnt ate for a week and says he doesnt want to be here anymore  so we have no rights to make a hospital keep him   what do you sugguest this isnt right  

[ng15]

Wow. This is a tough one. You could try getting the courts involved to determine if he is competent to make medical decisions for himself. Hospitals can under certain conditions hold a patient for 72 hours while the courts make a decision regarding his competency. Usually being a danger to themselves or others is enough of a reason for a hospital to institute a 72 hour hold. More than likely he would need to be placed on a psychiatric unit for these purposes, which isn't necessarily the best place for a geriatric patient. The geriatric patient with psychiatric problems needs different care than other psychiatric patients. If he is deemed incompetent to make medical decisions or to care for himself then the court assigns a "guardian" to do those things for him; usually a family member, but not necessarily. This is not an easy process by any means, but may be the only way to help him. The first step would probably be to contact an attorney who is familiar with the process. Best of luck!

[boogieman]

hi there. i'm afraid a temporary involuntary commitment is likely your best alternative. alcohol overindulgence coupled with not eating or taking care of personal hygiene might be enough. if he has vocalized any type of suicidal ideation, he's definitely a candidate. your local magistrate's office would likely have some answers, as this is a potential legal matter. i'm only half his age, but i know what it's like to want to check out. keep in mind he's probably in a lot of emotional pain, and this will require some tough love. if you can get him committed, try to inform the medical staff about everything he's said and done. if i can be of further assistance, please ask and take care----------gm