Devices which can aid in dressing and grooming include a mirror which hangs around the neck, a long-handled shoe horn and a device to help pull on stockings. People with high blood pressure should limit the amount of salt they eat. People with diabetes need to follow their doctor's advice on diet. These diet controls can enhance the benefits of the drugs which may have been prescribed for control of a specific condition. Weight control is also important.
Inactive people can easily become overweight from eating more than a sedentary lifestyle requires.
Obesity can also make it difficult for someone with a stroke-related disability to move around and exercise. Some stroke survivors may have a reduced appetite. III-fitting dentures or a reduced sense of taste or smell can make food unappealing. The stroke survivor who lives alone might even skip meals because of the effort involved in buying groceries and preparing food. Soft foods and foods with stronger flavors may tempt stroke survivors who are not eating enough.