Consider the social aspects of diet.
One of the most difficult aspects of recovering from a stroke can be re-emergence into social situations. While going to a dinner party or out for lunch with your family might have been a simple thing before, when you’re having difficulty with communication and movement, it can become much more of an ordeal. If you aren’t comfortable with your abilities to see your plate, feed yourself, or even just place an order from the menu, what should be a fun evening can become stressful and embarrassing.
This doesn't mean you have to stay in your house all the time, though! Go slowly. Ask the other guests to choose a place with a small dining area—or at least a secluded area—so you aren’t overwhelmed by the amount of people. Opt for places with handicap-accessible entries if you need them, and go during less busy times so there isn’t so much noise and crowd. Additionally, choose your seating to minimize distractions and maximize comforts.
If it isn’t a restaurant you’re familiar with, you can often look at dishes beforehand (online or on a to-go menu) so that you can take your time reviewing your options and be prepared to order without feeling rushed. If you aren’t comfortable with your speech abilities, the National Stroke Association recommends requesting help from the friends you’re with, bringing picture cards, or a sign that simply reads “I have aphasia.”
Don’t let fear of being in public get the better of you during recovery. Simply being in the presence of other human beings can make you feel better. If you aren’t ready to be out among the general public, it might be worth checking out a stroke support group, which can allow you to get comfortable being around people again—people who understand what you’re going through and where you’re coming from.
Did you know...
- A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
- Have you ever told your husband something and he promptly forgets it? It's not his fault, actually. It really is because he's a man. The hippocampus (the part of the brain that deals with memory) begins to shrink with age faster in men than it does in women. That's why you can remember everything, and he can't!
- Does your job make you stressed? We all know that stress is psychologically bad for you, but it also has an effect on…your allergies? A Harvard Medical School study has shown that stress causes your allergies to become worse because your body's defense response loses efficacy when repeatedly triggered by stress. Then, when you really need to physically fight something off, you're less able to!
- Do you know what the strongest muscle in your body is? No, it’s not your biceps or your thighs. It’s actually in your head. The masseter is a muscle in the jaw that is used when chewing. When all of the muscles of the jaw work together, they can exert a force as strong as 200 pounds on the molars. That’s some serious pressure.
- Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!