How do I encourage my father without being a nag?
How can I encourage my father to exercise more, eat better, etc. without nagging all the time? Is it better to just let him be, so we can enjoy our short remaining time together?
Expert Answer
Remember the old saw, "you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink"? You can encourage your father to eat well and exercise, but it is up to him to follow through.
Having said that, it's possible that your father is depressed or suffering from another health concern that is preventing him from taking care of himself. Encourage him to see his physician; you may also want to tell his physician about your concerns.
Chances are, your father knows that he should exercise and eat well. In all likelihood, his physician has given him the same advice; he's also read it in health columns and heard it on the news. If you regularly repeat it, too, then you are nagging, and he'll tune you out as soon as you begin the familiar refrain.
This doesn't mean you should pay no attention to your dad's health habits. You can encourage him to be active by Inviting him to take walks with you, and to eat well by sharing a nourishing meal with him. Your father is likely to be more receptive to your encouragement if it's provided along with your company.