Program Helping San Antonio Older Adults Technology, Nutrition gaps

Published on September 18, 2023

SAN ANTONIO (September 18, 2023) – The City of San Antonio Department of Human Services, the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and Older Adults Technology Services (OATS) from AARP are working together to bridge technology and nutrition gaps among older adults. This initiative is made possible through a three-year, $1.18 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Led by UTSA’s Nutrition and Dietetics Program, this initiative is designed to empower older adults in San Antonio by providing them with comprehensive technology resources and nutrition support. The program provides tablets, internet access, tech support, and a five-week technology training course at the City’ 11 Comprehensive Senior Centers. Following the technology course, the UTSA team administers a 15-week digital nutrition intervention developed specifically for older adults.

Recently, the program celebrated the graduation of its first cohort, consisting of 160 older adults. The second cohort is already underway, with activities planned through April 2024.

The NIH grant addresses older adults’ challenges to access health care, which was exacerbated by the pandemic. 

“Human Services is blessed to work with partners who enhance our programs and services,” said Melody Woosley, Director, Department of Human Services. “This technology and nutrition program with UTSA and OATS, thanks to the NIH grant, is a tremendous benefit to our older adult population, especially as we recover from the pandemic. We are grateful to the team promoting healthy aging.”

To be eligible to attend a senior center and participate in programs and services, individuals must be a resident of Bexar County and be 60 years of age or older. For more information, call 210-207-7172 or visit the City’s website.