Having a meal in one of Fort Wayne’s amazing restaurants is a great way to spend time with friends, or even just a nice way to avoid doing dishes. For people with dysphasia, however, dining out can turn into a stressful situation.
Let’s take a look at some helpful tips to improve your dining experience with dysphagia.
1. Check the Online Menu
Most restaurants have an online menu you can view in advance. Look at their food choices and ensure they have something you can eat. Focus on finely chopped or soft foods. Mashed potatoes, pancakes, thick soups and well-cooked pasta are always good choices.
2. Ask for Modifications
Sometimes, restaurants don’t have great options for people with dysphagia. If you end up in one of these restaurants, don’t be afraid to ask for modifications, including but not limited to:
- Cooking or steaming vegetables until they’re soft but not crispy
- Mincing or cutting food into manageable sizes
- Cooking pasta a little longer to make it extra soft
- Including extra gravy, syrups or sauces to help soften foods
3. Consider Sides or Appetizers
If your main course options are limited, try ordering a few different sides, like mashed potatoes or soups, to create a whole meal.
4. Communicate
Communication is key when dining out with dysphagia. Tell your waiter about your food sensitivities and clearly explain any necessary modifications to your meal, like texture changes, specific ingredients to avoid or how you’d like the food prepared.
It’s equally important to communicate with friends or family dining with you. Tell them about your dietary needs and any help you need during the meal. Being open helps set expectations and ensures a more comfortable dining experience for everyone.
5. Be Patient
Restaurants are hectic places, and mistakes are bound to happen. Be patient with your waiter and politely ask them to fix any errors that keep you from enjoying your meal safely and comfortably.
Make an ENT Appointment
Approximately one in 25 adults in the United States will experience swallowing difficulty each year. You don’t need to manage your swallowing disorder on your own. Contact Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today to schedule a comprehensive evaluation with one of our specialists.