Annie’s Mailbox: Dad’s companion worries children

Dear Annie: I am worried about my 79-year-old father. My mother died two years ago, and my brother and I regularly see Dad and invite him for dinner and to other events. But he’s still lonely for female companionship.

Six months ago, Dad began a relationship with “Corina,” a 33-year-old ex-prostitute with a toddler. Dad says they are in love. We want him to be happy, but we’re worried. Last week, Corina got drunk and hit my father. She’s already been in jail for other reasons in the past, and Dad didn’t want to turn her in.

Dad bought Corina a car and let her move in with him. She doesn’t have a job. She’s home with her child all day. Meanwhile, my parents’ house is a mess, and we’ve found cigarette ashes and wine bottles all over.

We have spoken to law enforcement and Dad’s doctor. No one can do anything because Dad is in sound mental health, and he refuses to press charges, so no laws are being broken. He’s already given her most of his savings, and now we’re worried he’ll lose his home. What can we do? – Panicked Siblings

Dear Siblings: Draining someone’s bank account can qualify as elder abuse. Try the National Center on Elder Abuse at ncea.aoa.gov or the Eldercare Locator (www.eldercare.gov) at 1-800-677-1116 for assistance and suggestions. You and your brother may also want to talk to a lawyer to see if there is a way to transfer ownership of the house and any remaining money to a trust in order to prevent Corina from getting her hands on it.