It's hard enough for a stroke survivor to eat without additional distraction. To help him concentrate on the basic tasks required for eating, follow these simple guidelines:
- Turn off the TV and reduce background noise.
- Minimize unnecessary chatter. Don't ask a lot of questions or try to keep a conversation going. If he has a hard time remembering to chew or swallow, you can use simple verbal cues to remind him: "Chew that bite." "Now swallow."
- Keep place settings simple. Use solid-colored plates and bowls. If you use a placemat, choose a contrasting solid color.
- Set out only the plates, bowls, and utensils that you'll need for a particular meal.
- Keep the table free of clutter.
