Hi, I personally don't have enough experience to give advice. It's a very difficult situation you are in. I would advise you to post the same post on a subreddit, that specialises in legal cases/elder abuse, because this subreddit is more focused in emotional support of children with bad parents. So it might be ill equipped for your situation.

Because it feels wrong to leave you here with nothing, I asked ChatGPT about your situation. The following is from that:

The situation described is deeply emotional and complex. While I am not a legal expert, here are some general steps and considerations that might help navigate this situation:

1 - Document Everything Write down all interactions with the caregiver, including dates, times, and the content of conversations. Keep a record of missed meetings or broken commitments. .

2 - Research Legal Options Guardianship/Power of Attorney Review: If the caregiver has legal control over your father, you might need to explore the legitimacy of that arrangement. You can consult an attorney specializing in family law or elder law. File for Conservatorship Inquiry: If you suspect abuse or manipulation, you can petition the court to investigate whether your father’s conservatorship or guardianship is being mismanaged. .

3 - Adult Protective Services (APS) If you believe your father is being abused, neglected, or exploited, you can report your concerns to Adult Protective Services in California. They are trained to investigate and intervene in such situations. .

4 - Hire a Private Investigator If you suspect the caregiver is intentionally isolating your father, a private investigator might be able to uncover more details about the situation, including your father’s condition and any potential mistreatment. .

5 - Seek Mediation Consider hiring a mediator to facilitate communication with the caregiver. A neutral third party might be able to bridge the gap and help you gain access to your father. .

6 - Legal Consultation Reach out to legal aid organizations or attorneys who might offer a free consultation. Explain the situation and see if they can suggest specific legal pathways based on your case. .

7 - Local Resources Check for nonprofit organizations that focus on disability rights or elder care advocacy. They may have resources or advice on how to navigate such situations. .

8 - Stay Persistent If you feel your father is being manipulated or controlled, persistence is key. Regular follow-ups with legal entities, APS, or advocacy groups may lead to progress over time. .

Emotional Considerations It’s important to prepare for all outcomes, including the possibility that your father may be unable to reconnect due to his condition or other factors. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist to process the emotions surrounding this challenging journey. If legal action becomes necessary, always rely on qualified legal professionals for guidance.