83.....this is one tough thing to have to deal with. I'm only ("only") 63 and had successful treatment last year. I was strong and healthy when I started and was pretty flattened by the experience. I'm not sure what I would have done at 83. There is length of life and quality of life. What's most important to him? If you father is mentally capable I'd have him get the best opinions he can find and make the decision that is right FOR HIM!! It's not an easy decision and nobody can advise him on what to do. But remember, Doctors almost ALWAYS want to treat.

Diagnosed in March 2011. Treatment ended May 28, 2011. Back of tongue cancer with one lymph node(stage 4). Feeding tube 5 - 2011, to 9 - 2011. Some saliva and taste. Eating most foods; meat, fish and dry foods not so well. Swallowing pretty normal otherwise. Doing well now. The future? Who knows.