DiTrack is a smartphone-based dietary monitoring application developed by Dr. Fang’s team in collaboration with Dr. Armstrong. The app enables users to log meals using simple photo capture and voice annotations, reducing the burden of manual entry. While DiTrack has been tested in younger adult populations, its use among older adults—particularly those in long-term care—remains largely unexplored.

The motivation behind this project is driven by two key factors: (i) supporting older adults' independence in managing their health, and (ii) reducing the workload on caregivers. Many seniors face challenges in maintaining adequate nutrition, and traditional meal tracking methods often require caregiver assistance. By adapting DiTrack for elderly users, we aim to create a low-effort, accessible tool that allows older adults to take a more active role in monitoring their dietary intake.

This study directly supports MIRA’s mission to enhance aging-in-place strategies by combining user-friendly mobile technology with voice-based input. The research will involve usability testing, pilot trials, and co-design activities with older adults and their caregivers. Recruitment and engagement will be facilitated through MIRA’s Voice Canada platform, which provides a direct line to community members with lived experience.

Ultimately, this project seeks to empower seniors with tools that promote autonomy, support healthy aging, and reduce dependency on caregiver support for basic health tracking needs. By tailoring DiTrack to meet the needs of older users, the project also contributes to broader efforts in digital health equity and smart aging technologies.

Dr. David Armstrong

Lisbeth Jones