Swallowing problems (dysphagia) can occur at any age but are most prevalent in elderly individuals and are a growing healthcare concern as the geriatric population expands. Without effective diagnosis and treatment, dysphagia may lead to serious medical conditions such as pneumonia, dehydration, and malnutrition. Experts in the field of dysphagia met on August 21, 2001, in Rockville, Maryland, to respond to this heightened healthcare need and to determine the course of dysphagia research. Presentations at the meeting included epidemiological data, geriatric-specific issues, diagnostic techniques, risk factors for pneumonia, and recent relevant trials. The experts identified outstanding issues in dysphagia research, such as study design, population selection, and the standardization of diagnostic and treatment protocols. They designed a clinical trial that represents what they deem is one of the greatest needs in dysphagia research, providing a critical springboard for research endeavors with far-reaching implications.