Going to a restaurant is often a big milestone after a brain injury. It is such a busy environment from the noise, the lights, having to communicate with people you don’t know, and having the pressure of dinner conversation. This situation can be complicated by all types of issues after a brain injury:
· Aphasia
· Light and/or Sound Sensitivity
· Limited Attention
· Dysphagia
· Mobility issues
So, what can we do?
Here are my top 5 tips for the first time (or even few times) of going out to eat after your injury:
Talk to someone you love about what you’re afraid of - what is it about going to a place to eat that has you worried? It can be as simple as getting those fears out on the table and having someone reassure you of their support.
Go with one or two people - it can be really overwhelming to eat out with a large group of people, with or without a brain injury, so, make it easier and go with a close loved one that you trust (possibly the person that you shared your concerns with in #1).
Start with just an appetizer - Give yourself an easy out. Don’t pressure yourself to stay for an entire meal, just order something small so you won’t feel guilty if you want to leave. It might be best to start with a busy coffee shop rather than a sit-down restaurant - order at the counter and leave whenever you want. I would like to stress: leave whenever you want regardless of where you are! Don’t feel obligated to stay if you are uncomfortable, you don’t owe anyone anything. This is another reason to go with someone you are close to and trust, you want someone that will immediately understand why you might need to make a hasty exit.
Ask for the right place to sit - When you arrive, or when making your reservation, let the hostess know what place in the restaurant would be best. I don’t feel like it’s necessary to tell them why, just say “We need a table in a quiet corner”, I feel this is the equivalent of asking for a booth versus a table (or if it is easier for you to physically sit at a table with moveable chairs) - the point is to speak up. Plenty of people have requests when dining out, the worst they can say is ‘no’ and if that’s the case, find a nicer place to give your hard-earned money to.
Go at a weird time - Try to plan on going when there are typically less people out and about. I would avoid the ‘popular’ times so you can practice navigating a new environment with less obstacles and build up your sensitivity to noisier places without maxing out and failing - it doesn’t have to be “all or nothing”.
For more tips and tricks, contact us for your evaluation or visit our services page and pick the package that is best for you.
We want to post what you care about. Take the time to visit our website
scroll to the bottom and let us know what topics are most important to you by filling out our “Contact Us” form.
If you or your caregiver need help navigating life after brain injury through education, support or individualized strategies, don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a call at
480-881-1487
for your free 15 minute consultation – we’re here to help guide you through LIFE BEYOND REHAB.
Comments