How can I encourage my husband's return to his old chatty self?

Hi Don,

Thank you for your enquiry. We are sorry to hear about your husband’s TIAs last year.

Stroke can affect communication, thinking, personality and mood. It sounds like your husband would benefit from a review with his GP as a starting point to find out what might be the cause of him withdrawing from conversation.

Is it confidence, lack of motivation/initiation, low mood, due to communication changes or a personality change?

The GP may suggest a speech pathology review or even referrals to occupational therapy, psychology or neuropsychology to find out what is going on and what might help.

Was your husband social before? What did he like doing before? Trying to re-engage him in those activities is another good starting point and having an open conversation about what you’ve noticed to see what his thoughts are on the changes.

It might be helpful for you to give our helpline a call if you were open to that. You can call StrokeLine on 1800 787 653 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm AEDST) to speak with a health professional.

Here is more information on communication, thinking, emotions and personality changes after stroke in the meantime.

Many stroke survivors and their carers find Stroke Support Groups another good option for support. There are also conversation groups for stroke survivors with communication difficulties and choirs.

Best wishes to you and your husband,

Simone, StrokeLine