My Father (73) has a plethora of health issues, and has been experiencing cognitive decline. Three days ago he tried to take his own life. I called 911 right away, and he is currently stable though still not awake.
Did I do the right thing calling 911 on a 73-year-old man that has many health issues? What if my actions lead to him suffering even more if he ever wakes up? Given the COVID protocol at the hospital, I am not allowed to visit or stay next to him. If he does wake up and is in worse condition, will he hate me? Will he live the rest of his life blaming me for his suffering?
I have been a lurker on the forums, never posted. Many stories and tips from others have helped in the care of my father and reduce burnout. I care for my father with the help of two private aides.
You did what any loving child would do when looking after their parent, so don't beat yourself up, but instead look on the bright side that your father will now receive the help he needs.
She only stopped the attempts when she almost succeeded.
So, I have to disagree that it is always a cry for help.
I think in this man's case, he doesn't want to descend into dementia and have no quality of life.
His mistake was doing it where his daughter would find him, that was selfish.
If he is angry when/if he wakes up, it may be because of his own suicide attempt and physical issues rather than your initiative to do right by him.
Be at peace that you did all you could on his behalf.
If your dad wishes not to live any longer when he recovers from this suicidal act, he needs to talk to his doctors about no longer treating his physical ailments. He needs to be seen by a psychiatrist to have his depression treated. In short, he needs to approach his end of life issues in a rational way that does not harm those around him.
You have/had no way of knowing if this was a suicidal gesture gone wrong or a real act of "I no longer wish to live". If you found him, he may have assumed you would find him and save him.
Although I would be furious at a parent for doing this, consider that he may be attempting to "not be a burden". Maybe facility living would be a better idea.