Bridging the gap: technology-driven solutions to overcome food insecurity and improve nutrition access for older adults
Journal
Frontiers in Public Health
ISSN
22962565
Date Issued
2026-07-07
Author(s)
Campuzano-Donoso, Martín
Munizaga, Maritza Aguirre
Oentiono, Oki Yonatan
Jimenez, Janeth Castano
Montalvan, Martha
Type
Article
Abstract
Food insecurity and social isolation are interrelated challenges affecting many older adults, with overlapping pathways that include limited income, reduced mobility, difficulty shopping or preparing meals, loss of shared mealtime routines, and lack of practical support for food procurement. These pathways may contribute to poorer dietary intake, malnutrition risk, deteriorating health, and reduced quality of life. As the global population ages, digital health and assistive technologies may support selected aspects of nutrition access, care coordination, and social connectedness, although their effects depend on implementation context and the availability of human and community support. This review explores the potential of tools such as wearable devices, telehealth services, virtual community centers, GIS mapping, and mobile markets in addressing these challenges. It also highlights the importance of integrating caregivers and coordinated care teams into technology-driven interventions to improve outcomes for older adults with limited access to traditional services. While these innovations present exciting opportunities, barriers such as the digital divide, limited digital literacy, data privacy concerns, and the risk of widening existing health disparities must be addressed. Ensuring that technologies are designed inclusively, ethically, and with input from older users is essential for building scalable, sustainable solutions that truly enhance the quality of lives of aging individuals. As digital health continues to evolve, it must prioritize equity, accessibility, and human-centered design to effectively support aging in place and reduce the burden of food insecurity and social isolation. Copyright © 2026 Reytor-González, Campuzano-Donoso, Munizaga, Oentiono, Jimenez, Montalvan and Simancas-Racines.