Optimizing Antibiotic Use in Older Adults Through Digital Health Initiatives

Abstract Purpose of Review The goal of this paper is to explore the impact of digital health technologies (DHTs) on antibiotic utilization in older adults. The paper aims to address how these technologies are implemented to improve antibiotic stewardship, address age-specific challenges, and manage infection risks in this vulnerable population while assessing limitations, ethical issues, educational barriers, and potential benefits. Recent Findings Recent research highlights the potential of DHTs to enhance antibiotic use and infection management among older adults. Telehealth has increased access to infectious disease specialists and stewardship services, with promising outcomes in older adults. DHTs like remote monitoring, telemedicine, and AI-driven surveillance may advance outbreak response, predict resistance patterns, and personalize therapy. Home diagnostic kits and physiological sensors offer convenience but face challenges in accuracy, patient education, and health literacy. Summary Further research is needed to validate and optimize these technologies for this population. Risks such as antibiotic overprescribing due to virtual diagnostic limitations need additional research and ethical consideration of DHTs in older adults require more attention and study and educational and technical barriers must be addressed to maximize use and benefits of DHTs in older adults.