Part 1: What Language Are You Speaking?

IDDSI is truly international - across the globe, healthcare providers have begun using a standardized language for providing care to individuals with dysphagia.

Why is this important? Terms like "Nectar thick" or "Minced" might be interpreted in different ways.

In order to improve safety for individuals with dysphagia as well as promote a global community for healthcare, language standardization is essential.

It is estimated at dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) affects approximately 8% of the world's population. Standardization of dysphagia care will ensure products are manufactured to the same consistency, clinical information is correctly passed from one provider to the next, and new research is shared across the world.

You may want to begin familiarizing yourself with the new language, symbols, and terms used in the IDDSI language. Below is the chart for classifying all food and drinks. Clicking on the image below will take you to the IDDSI website for more information.

Ready to learn more? Continue to Part 2: All About Foods and Drinks