DDS Safe Swallowing Campaign

This page provides monthly DDS resources, training materials, and guidance to help staff, families, and providers support safe swallowing and reduce the risks of choking and aspiration during mealtimes.

Overview

Choking, dysphagia, and aspiration are serious and potentially life-threatening risks for many individuals supported by DDS. The DDS Safe Swallowing Campaign provides monthly resources to help staff, families, clinicians, and individuals understand how to support safe mealtimes, recognize risks early, and prevent choking and aspiration.

In March 2025, DDS issued a Health Alert highlighting these risks and reinforcing the importance of safe swallowing practices.

Featured Resource – Now Playing (January 2026)

This month’s featured resources focus on adaptive dining equipment, safe sitting/positioning, and general strategies to reduce the risk of choking and aspiration. These materials can be printed and shared with individuals, direct support staff, clinical staff, and family members.

Featured resources (print and share):

• Poster: Adaptive Dining Equipment (PDF)
• Poster: Dining Positioning Tips (PDF)
• Tip sheet: General Strategies for Safe Dining (PDF)

What to do:

• Share these links widely and post printed copies in dining areas and staff workspaces.
• Check back monthly for new resources and trainings.

Coming soon:
New resources and trainings are being added, including guidance on:

• how to support mealtimes
• why food texture matters
• what to observe for choking/aspiration risk
• how to support safe pacing of eating and drinking

Safe Swallowing Resource Library