Dysphagia Doesn’t Have to Steal the Joy: Holiday Tips from a Speech Therapist

There’s something special about gathering around the table with family and friends during the holidays. Sharing a meal is often the heart of holiday traditions. It’s a time to connect, laugh, and enjoy favorite dishes passed down through generations.

But for someone living with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), the holidays can bring stress, anxiety, and feelings of exclusion. Instead of looking forward to a festive meal, they may feel anxious about what they can safely eat, worried about coughing or choking, or discouraged that others might notice their challenges.

The good news is: with some thoughtful preparation, individuals with dysphagia can still feel included, supported, and part of the celebration.

How Dysphagia Affects Holiday Meals

Dysphagia can impact the ability to enjoy holiday meals in several ways:

• Anxiety about eating in front of others

• Fatigue from the physical effort of chewing and swallowing

• Embarrassment about coughing, choking, or needing help during meals

• Feeling left out when their diet is more limited than others at the table

• Grief or frustration over missing out on favorite foods or traditions

These challenges can take a toll, not just physically, but emotionally and socially!

Strategies to Support and Include Loved Ones with Dysphagia

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or visiting a loved one with dysphagia, here are some tips to make sure they feel safe and supported:

Make Meals Feel “Normal,” but Safe

Offer foods that match the person’s prescribed texture or consistency, while still maintaining a festive atmosphere. For example:

• Mashed potatoes and gravy

• Applesauce with cinnamon

• Turkey cut into small, moist pieces with gravy

• Pureed butternut squash or sweet potatoes

• Pumpkin pudding instead of pie

With creativity and care, holiday dishes can still be both safe and delicious.

Focus on Inclusion, Not Just the Food

Sometimes, the act of being together matters more than what’s on the plate. You can:

• Serve meals buffet-style so everyone eats at their own pace

• Make space at the main table, or provide a quieter spot nearby if that’s more comfortable

• Emphasize traditions beyond food, such as music, games, decorating, or sharing memories

Spread Out the Food Throughout the Day

Large meals can be overwhelming. Instead, try:

• Offer smaller portions more often

• Allow rest between courses or snacks

• Avoid pressuring your loved one to “eat it all” at once

Prepare Ahead

A little planning goes a long way:

• Bring or prepare safe food options for your loved one

• Keep thickener on hand for beverages like cider, hot chocolate, or eggnog

• Coordinate with caregivers or a speech-language pathologist if you’re unsure about safe textures or consistency

Dysphagia doesn’t have to take away the joy of the holidays. With small adjustments—whether modifying a recipe, offering emotional support, or simply making room at the table—families can create inclusive traditions where everyone feels a sense of connection.

If you or a loved one is struggling with swallowing, a speech-language pathologist can assess needs and provide personalized strategies. This season, let’s keep the focus on connection, comfort, and community at every level.