What should I do when elderly parent refuses to eat?

If he is dying, as my mom is, he is not giving up. This is how nature works they truly cannot eat or drink. In fact they will become very sick if you try and force the issue, a 1/4 tsp of water made mama really uncomfortable until she threw it up.

Yes I'm sure its all of the above. His BD was yesterday. Not one family member called. He made 90. He said he gad been having stomach problems but he always says that after having colon cancer 15 years ago. No signs of reoccurrance. He did have a uti that has bern treated. I believe he just is giving up.is

notfair, could you tell us a little more about his health. There could be a few reasons he doesn't want to eat. It may be that his stomach feels sick, so he doesn't want to put food in it. This can happen if he gets a viral infection or other problem in his digestive system. It could be that he is depressed. Depression can steal the appetite of people. I could be that he is ending his time here on earth. The body requires less food and the digestive system is losing its efficiency, so food is not wanted. In the first two situations, a doctor can help. If your dad is nearing the end of his life. it is good not to force food on him. It is Nature's way.