What can I do to encourage my father to work on recovering from his stroke?
My 64-year-old father had a stroke six months ago, and he doesn't seem to care about getting better. He won't do any of his rehabilitation exercises, and he refuses to stop smoking. What can I do to encourage him?
Expert Answer
Your father may be suffering from depression, which affects as many as half of people who've had a stroke. Symptoms of depression can include a lack of energy and interest, along with changes in appetite and sleeping habits, agitation and restlessness, and crying episodes. Depression can be detrimental to a stroke patient's long-term recovery and overall health.
If you think your father could be depressed, I wouldn't wait to have him evaluated. Be sure to get him in to see his doctor or a psychiatrist. He may benefit from psychotherapy or medication.