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What do you mean by controlling? Maybe she is used to it. She just may react to him the way she always has, and it it normal for her. I would be worried about physical abuse.
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Reply to Isabelsdaughter
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What do you mean? I don't feel like this is enough information to respond to.

Has your father always been controlling over your mother? Is this a new thing?
I think that is the most important question to ask at this time. If he's always been this way, why are you worrying about it now? And, if this is new behavior for him, then it suggests he is suffering from some loss of cognitive function, or some illness which could possibly be treated successfully.
What do you want to do? You could place her in a care home, if you have POA. Does your mother want to be "rescued"? What would you do with your dad?
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Reply to CaringWifeAZ
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What are your worries? What has changed to make the ‘controlling’ more of a worry for you? Is M complaining about F’s behavior? Is this the way it’s always been – and if so, why haven’t you been concerned earlier?
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CaringWifeAZ Aug 30, 2026
MargaretMcKen, Exactly! I think we need more information here.
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Has their dynamic always been this way or has it changed recently or with a decline in either one? If it’s long been like this, understand they’ve long chosen to stay together in their dysfunctional stew and it’s working for them both. If mom is truly in an unsafe situation, let law enforcement and Adult Protective Services know what you’re seeing, or offer mom another place to live away from dad. You’re right to be concerned, hopefully mom will choose to get away from him. But don’t be surprised if she chooses to stay
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Reply to Daughterof1930
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MargaretMcKen Aug 30, 2026
This post has almost no information about what is actually happening. Why do you label it as a "dysfunctional stew" and say that "hopefully" M will leave him? What are you assuming, based on almost no information? And why are you assuming it?
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Nothing. Unless you suspect mom is being physically abused, then call the police for a wellness check or APS. Or go pick mom up yourself and take her home with you. I found with my parents they had a dysfunctional relationship for 68 yrs and when I tried to get in between to sort out moms ugly behavior towards dad, HE'D get mad at ME. I just backed off and understood dad was a glutton for punishment and wanted to be treated poorly, apparently.

Good luck to you.
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