HealthInfo Canterbury
They might also prescribe anti-clotting medicines, such as aspirin or clopidogrel.
People who've had a stroke may be eligible for the Community Stroke Rehabilitation Service. This service consists of a range of health professionals who'll visit you at home or in a residential care facility.
How Physio can help after a stroke from Physiotherapy New Zealand will tell you how a physiotherapist can help you recover. See Find a physio for help finding a local physiotherapist.
An occupational therapist can help you regain the skills you need to do everyday activities.
The Stroke Foundation represents the interests of stroke survivors and their families. It works with them to improve the quality of life of those affected by stroke. It has Community Stroke Advisers who can help with any stroke-related problems. They make hospital and home visits, and provide support and information. They can also provide information about stroke clubs, groups and carer support. For more information, phone (03) 381‑8500.
See the Sport Canterbury Activities Directory for details of programmes and classes to help with stroke rehabilitation.
Cantabrainers Choir is a choir for people with conditions such as Parkinson disease, stroke and multiple sclerosis. Participating in Cantabrainers Choir helps people improve their voice and communication through singing and socialising. You can contact the Cantabrainers Choir by email.
The choir meets during school terms, every Wednesday from 10 am to 11.45 am at the Mary Potter Community Centre, 442 Durham St North. There's a charge of $10 for each session.
Supportive and personalised exercise, thinking and communication groups. These are held every Wednesday afternoon, at 26 Nash Rd, Halswell. Exercise group from 1:15 to 2 pm, refreshments from 2 to 2:30 pm, and thinking and communication group from 2:30 to 3:15 pm. Cost: $5 a session. No need to book – just turn up. Phone Jack on (03) 338‑2009 for more information.
The Family Services Directory page lists a range of services that may be available to help if you've had a stroke.
For information about funding that your GP might be able to use to reduce the cost of your health care, see Funding schemes at your general practice.
To find out about the disability allowance benefit, see Disability allowance.
Transport and parking has information about mobility parking permits, the Total Mobility half-price taxi scheme, and other transport options.
Carers of people who've had strokes may be eligible for Respite Care Services and Carer Support. To get either kind of support, the person who has had a stroke must be assessed by the Needs Assessment Service (NASC).
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Last reviewed April 2018.
See also:
Community groups for communication difficulties
Review key: HISTK-21790