Abstract

Introduction: Population aging represents new challenges related to the search of ways to overcome vulnerabilities of the aged. Objective: To co-design a pilot system to deliver healthy food preparations to autonomous older adults (OA) aged 60 or over, in a Family Health Center located in Valparaiso, Chile. Methodology: Information of the OA from the Health Center was obtained and 18 subjects were selected, and signed an Informed Consent Form. 46 healthy food preparations were assayed and, along with the OA, the visual identity and communication style were established according to their information needs, and the food packaging models were co-designed between the researchers and OA. The food preparations were delivered twice a week for 4 months at lunchtime, evaluating their acceptability and tolerance. At the end of the study, the recipes were delivered to all the participants. Results and discussion: All the co-designed food preparations were very well evaluated. Socialization among OA was generated, showing an improvement of their vulnerability by participating in highly valued social activities. This pilot study involved a specific social group, however the model can be replicated in different contexts, keeping the characteristic of a co-creation with all the individuals involved. Conclusion: It is possible to co-design delivery systems of healthy food preparations to autonomous OA in a context of participative co-design, with a multidisciplinary approach.