Quote Originally Posted by Catty1
it's like an alkie - he may have to hit his own bottom before he does that. If he does have to learn the hard way, I hope it is the gentlest one possible.
I've had similar problems with my Dad and his diabetes. He won't listen to me, the doctor, the nurse, the diabetes educator. His diabetes doc even asked, "Where did YOU get your medical degree?"

It's been a bit over 6 years. For 5 years I was a mental case, on him constantly. I'd phone the doctor's office all upset about his readings and what he ate which he shouldn't have, what meds he skipped. Reminding him I was the one who would have to cope with the results didn't help; taking him to the diabetes ward to SEE folks with the complications didn't do it. Finally, for the last 6 months, I have finally come to realize that I can't MAKE him do a thing. He has to want to do it for himself. I've backed off and shut up. And yeah, I don't always go to the ER with him; I DO phone 911 and take the steps to get him help.

Well, now he has the complications: lost 35% of sensitiviy in his feet; retinopathy started in both eyes; kidneys have started to fail. In the last 5 or 6 months, he has been GOLDEN! A bit late, but that is what it took for him.

It isn't easy to sit back and watch someone self destruct. I like the idea put forth to get the BP kit. Otherwise, maybe get some therapy for yourself to learn how to step back. Sorry, but that's what it took, here.