Moose72, I know how scary it is to see your dad injuring himself. My dad has injured himself drunk several times. Twice the ambulance was even called by the bar. My brother was also called. It shocks me how/why they would just let my brother take him to the doctor and then nothing more would come of it. Dad's car has long scratches on the side from scraping against the side of the bridge. We've all tried to intervene, but it's not doing that much good. My dad is 78 now. Heavy drinking is dangerous for everyone, but it is so very concerning when it's an elderly parent.

Blueberrybook, I understand your husband's feelings, but I think he did the right thing. I have talked to my siblings about doing something similar to my dad. It's just hard to actually go through with it, especially when it's someone you really love and care for. My sister works for an insurance company. She forced him to get a much more significant insurance policy just in case he hurts someone at some point. I don't know. Maybe we are guilty in this. I have to admit that if I saw my dad at that tavern, I would have been tempted to take him straight to rehab. But of course he can refuse. I don't think he was drunk (or that drunk) when I saw him. As I said, he was having some significant shakes.

My dad has had alcohol issues only really these last 8 years. They've grown worse since my youngest nephew died. Dad has clearly acknowledged that. Dad really does need psychotherapy. Dad really needs some proper medication, too.