If a parent is in a bonafide program , attending, getting the grades, not just picking up enough courses to get a financial aid break, I advise bringing the situation to the financial aid directors of the daughters’ school choices, and ask for a professional judgement. I’ve seen them granted.
I was told by a fin aid director some years ago when FAFSA stopped including parents as other dependents in schools , that the change was made because too many folks took advantage of the situation but that those who are truly in some program should request exception, professional judgement.