Phychiatrist / Occupational therapist

[HKNewBi]

Sadly my elderly father is not well after a recent stroke. He is finding it nearly impossible to walk, although it has been suggested that this may be as much a physiological problem as much as a physical problem.

His physio has suggested I find a good Phychiatrist or Occupational Therapist to help. Can anyone recommend one? Preferably in Central please.

Thanks

[Louiseamanda]

Hello

For post-stroke rehabilitation you need to find a physiotherapist first (to commence walking) though an OT would help your father after the initial
physio is completed.
An OT would assess ADL (activities of daily living) make sure his home is safe (do a home visit) arrange aids at home (rails in bathroom/toilet, if necessary) Some people get depressed after a stroke which I think is a natural reaction to loss of your mobility etc.
If your father is already on his feet then the OT can help with sticks/frames to help continue mobilising etc.
Sorry I cant give you names but I know what its like cos my mother had a stroke. It is amazing to see the amount of recovery that can be achieved woith good rehab.
Best of luck hope your father gets better soon!
LA

[HKNewBi]

Hi Louiseamanda

Thanks for your reply. As I have said below, it is his physio that has suggested finding a phychiatrist as unfortunately the issues are mainly psychological. His doctor in the hospital where he has had 1 month of physio also agree with this. The problem being is that the hospital is in Thailand and he lives here so they are not able to make a recommendation.

If anyone knows a phychiatrist please let me know or drop me a PM.

Thanks!

Ben

[david_f4ng]

i think you should try acupuncture. and some herbal, it works well

[HKNewBi]

Thanks David

But seriously, I know everyone is trying to help, but really I am not looking for a diagnosis here - I am looking for a recommendation.

If anyone can help or suggest a method other than picking up the 'yellow pages' so to speak, I would really really appreciate it.

[Louiseamanda]

HI HK NEw Bi
I see.
Might be worth ringing your GP and asking who they normally refer their patients to, for psychiatric assessment. I was told there is no 'ex-pat' psychiatrist in HK (due to the legislation now) though not sure whuich language your father communicates in.
Preferably you need a psychiatrist who deals with the elderly (psychogeriatrician) or even a stroke specialist (ring Hong Kong University neurology/psychiatreic dept to see who is the psychogeriatrician there?)
Failing that you could get a good GP to assess him to see if there is any treatment they could offer to get him going (eg antidepressants)
Stroke victims get quite angry and if that isnt expressed they are depressed.

Sorry cant name names just trying to help as no-one is answering you.
Hope you find a suitable consultant soon.

Best of luck
LA