Dining out isn’t just about food, it’s about connection. Whether it’s catching up with friends, celebrating a milestone, or enjoying a spontaneous lunch with family, restaurants are a cornerstone of social life. But for individuals with dysphagia (difficulty chewing/swallowing) those moments can be inaccessible, even isolating. That’s where the Altered Elevated Project comes in.
As a speech-language pathologist and advocate for the dysphagia community, I launched the Altered Elevated Project to bridge the gap between accessibility and dining culture. The project’s mission is to elevate awareness around texture-modified diets and partner with restaurants to create a more inclusive dining experience for everyone.
This isn’t just a project, it’s a movement.
What We’re Doing
Partnering with Restaurants: We work with restaurants open to offering soft or pureed options that align with safety and dignity for people with dysphagia. Whether that’s a single adapted menu item or staff training, every effort makes a difference.
Spotlighting Champions: Many restaurants, especially in senior-forward areas like Florida or Arizona, are already serving texture-modified meals in retirement communities or assisted living settings. We’re here to recognize and celebrate them.
Building a Community: The Altered Elevated Project welcomes collaboration from SLPs, caregivers, chefs, and community leaders. If you’re passionate about making meals more meaningful for people with swallowing challenges, we want to work with you.
How You Can Get Involved
Do you know a restaurant that might be open to making a dish or two more accessible?
Are you a restaurant owner who wants to better serve your aging guests?
Are you a fellow SLP or healthcare worker with connections in your community?
Let’s build a future where no one has to skip the table. Because everyone deserves a seat, a meal, and a moment of connection.
