In the past, there was no unified standard for dysphagic diets in Japan. The "The Japanese Society of Dysphagia Rehabilitation 2013, JSDR 2013)" classifies dysphagic diets and thickener allowing different institutions and service providers in Japan to use the same standards.

In the swallowing pyramid, J stands for jelly-like foods, and T stands for thickened drinks. According to different swallowing abilities of different people, people can choose the appropriate food texture according to the categories on the pyramid.

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For elderly people with swallowing difficulties, they can consider

"1j", "0t" food and drinks, and soft meals belong to this category:

【1j】Jelly, pudding, or mousse-like foods that have more volume and protein than 0j 【0t】Thickened tea, juice, or other beverages with less protein ("medium" or "thick")

If it is softened food, such as meat, vegetables, etc., the classification is "4":
【4】Food that can be crushed by the gums and is soft

By referring to the swallowing pyramid, the elderly can find the types of food that are suitable for them! Softmeals can not only provide a pleasant dining experience, but also reduce the occurrence of coughing during eating.

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Source: Jun Kashiwa. (2017). Selection of suitable food patterns for patients with dysphagia. The Japanese Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 54(9), 691-697.