By Janet Engel, OT/L, CAPS, ECHM
My podcasts offers solutions to help older adults stay in their homes for as long as possible.
We explore creative home modification solutions and talk to experts in the building and h
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The podcast currently has 94 episodes available.
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Summary
In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Michael Pankow, a retail mortgage executive and CEO of Veterans Mortgage of America with over 20 years of experience, focusing on the benefits and misconceptions surrounding reverse mortgages.
Michael shares his personal journey in the mortgage industry, the importance of planning for aging in place, and how reverse mortgages can provide financial independence for seniors.
He discusses the challenges of educating older adults about reverse mortgages, the criteria for qualifying, and the non-recourse feature that protects borrowers and their heirs.
The conversation also touches on Michael's work in the film industry and his passion for helping seniors navigate financial products.
Takeaways
Michael Pankow has over 20 years of experience in the mortgage industry.
Reverse mortgages can provide financial independence for seniors.
Education is key to overcoming misconceptions about reverse mortgages.
The non-recourse feature protects borrowers and their heirs.
Planning for aging in place is essential for seniors.
Accessing home equity can help seniors live more comfortably.
Qualifying for a reverse mortgage involves a financial assessment.
Reverse mortgages can be used for downsizing or purchasing a new home.
Michael's personal experiences shape his passion for helping seniors.
The reverse mortgage market has a low penetration rate, indicating a need for education.
Sound Bites
"Congratulations, you are mortgage free for the rest of your life."
"Reverse mortgages are not just for the desperate."
"There's a level of independence that they gain."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Michael Pankow
02:05 Michael's Journey in the Mortgage Industry
06:42 Understanding Reverse Mortgages
09:43 Challenges and Misconceptions of Reverse Mortgages
11:51 The Importance of Planning for Aging in Place
15:10 Accessing Home Equity for Seniors
19:23 Qualifying for a Reverse Mortgage
25:20 Using Reverse Mortgages for Downsizing
32:12 The Non-Recourse Feature Explained
36:10 Education and Awareness in the Reverse Mortgage Industry
47:13 Michael's Work in the Film Industry
How to contact Michael:
Email: [email protected]
Web: https://www.mikepankowmortgages.com
916.705.8282 Office
916.296.7765 Cell
Schedule Appointment with Me:
https://calendly.com/michaelpankow/30min
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Chris Lalomia, CEO of The Trusted Toolbox, discusses his business and the challenges and benefits of home renovations for older adults and people with disabilities.
He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing professionalism and trust in the handyman industry.
Lalomia also talks about the growing trend of multi-generational homes in Atlanta and the need for home modifications to accommodate aging parents.
He highlights the need for proactive modifications to prevent falls and improve safety, and the importance of educating homeowners about the benefits of these modifications.
Lalomia also discusses the challenges of working with older adults and their families, including managing different opinions and addressing feelings of guilt and anger.
He encourages homeowners to view modifications as a lifestyle change and an opportunity to improve their homes.
The conversation covers various topics related to home remodeling and aging in place.
Chris Lalomia discusses the importance of integrating accessibility features into home design and the work he does with the National Association of Remodelers.
They also touch on the challenges of deferred maintenance in older homes and the need for upgrades to plumbing, electrical, and other systems.
The conversation highlights the role of home technology in improving comfort and safety, and the importance of starting with key rooms like the bedroom and kitchen when planning for aging in place.
They also discuss the benefits of zero-step entrances and the conversion of carports into garages for safety and security.
Takeaways
Prioritizing professionalism and trust is crucial in the handyman industry.
Home modifications are necessary to accommodate aging parents in multi-generational homes.
Proactive modifications can prevent falls and improve safety.
Educating homeowners about the benefits of modifications is essential.
Challenges in working with older adults include managing different opinions and addressing feelings of guilt and anger.
Modifications should be viewed as a lifestyle change and an opportunity to improve the home. Integrating accessibility features into home design is important for aging in place.
Deferred maintenance in older homes can decrease their value and pose safety risks.
Home technology, such as smart home features, can improve comfort and safety.
Starting with key rooms like the bedroom and kitchen is crucial when planning for aging in place.
Zero-step entrances and the conversion of carports into garages can enhance safety and security.
Sound Bites
"I started the business in 2008. And if everybody remembers what that was, that was the start of the recession. So timing has never been my thing."
"A lot of people are moving here because it's a big distribution center and it's also a great quality of life."
"Once a person falls, they are four times more likely to fall."
"You can actually integrate them into the flow of the home and you don't even know they're there or that's what they're there for."
"Our home is our number one asset. It is 100% our number one financial, emotional asset."
"The housing stock in the U.S. is very old. 90% of the housing stock was built before 1990."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
05:00 Starting The Trusted
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website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
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Summary
Katherine Ambrose, founder of America's Senior Home Coach, shares her journey in the senior real estate industry and how she started her own television show, Empowering Seniors on PBS.
She emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities and following your intuition.
Katherine discusses the unique challenges that real estate agents and other professionals face when entering the senior niche and offers advice on how to approach this market with a heart-centered and community-focused mindset.
She also talks about her seminars and workshops, the Senior Home Coach platform, and her future plans to empower seniors and help them plan for their future.
Takeaways
Say yes to opportunities and follow your intuition
Approach the senior niche with a heart-centered and community-focused mindset
Create connections and build trust with clients
Help seniors imagine their future selves to empower them to maintain control
Empower seniors to plan for their future and make informed decisions
Focus on serving others and making a difference in their lives
Sound Bites
"If you feel like, we all deal with imposter syndrome, whether we are valid, whether we have a good enough message or... if we're good enough, if our voice is good enough, our facial expressions, if we look professional, just everything about us, we just judge ourselves so harshly."
"The hardest thing is getting started."
"If you don't plan your future by design, then it's going to come at you by default."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:12 Starting a Television Show
06:15 The Senior Home Coach Platform
09:21 Challenges in the Senior Niche
11:20 Empowering Realtors and Professionals
16:29 Seminars and Workshops
20:26 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
23:18 Facing Fear and Climbing Walls
26:11 The Power of Saying Yes
35:37 Activities and Events at the Conference
40:03 Future Plans for Senior Home Coach
Katherine's LinkedIn Profile
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website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Summary
Joseph Erlbach, co-owner of Rapid Recess Systems, discusses the benefits and installation process of curbless shower systems.
He explains that the idea for the system came about when his wife broke her leg and struggled with getting in and out of the shower.
The Rapid Recess System uses steel brackets to recess the plywood floor between floor joists, allowing for the installation of thin shower trays or pans.
Erlbach emphasizes that curbless showers are common in Europe and are more accessible and aesthetically pleasing than traditional showers with curbs.
He also addresses the challenges of getting installers to adopt the system and the importance of educating customers about the benefits of curbless showers.
Takeaways
Curbless showers provide accessibility and aesthetic benefits compared to traditional showers with curbs.
The Rapid Recess System uses steel brackets to recess the plywood floor between floor joists, allowing for the installation of thin shower trays or pans.
Curbless showers are common in Europe and are more accessible and aesthetically pleasing.
Getting installers to adopt curbless shower systems can be challenging due to resistance to change and lack of knowledge.
Educating customers about the benefits of curbless showers and offering them as an option can lead to increased customer satisfaction and home value.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
01:10 The Benefits of Curbless Showers
03:26 Curbless Showers in Europe vs. the US
06:11 Challenges of Getting Installers to Adopt Curbless Shower Systems
10:53 Educating Customers about the Benefits of Curbless Showers
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website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Ali Sultani, owner of Handy Pro Services, and Melissa Bresler, outreach coordinator and occupational therapist, discuss their business and the services they provide for people with disabilities and those who want to age in place.
They offer home modifications such as installing grab bars, ramps, stair lifts, and widening doorways. They also discuss grants and funding options for these modifications, as well as tax benefits.
Melissa explains the role of an occupational therapist in conducting home evaluations and the importance of understanding the individual's needs and daily activities.
They also discuss the use of technology in home modifications, such as voice command systems and fall prevention sensors.
HandyPro is a company that specializes in aging in place modifications, offering a wide range of services to make homes more accessible and safe for seniors and individuals with disabilities.
They work closely with occupational therapists to ensure that the modifications meet the specific needs of each client.
While some insurances may not cover the cost of these modifications, HandyPro offers financing options and works with grants and nonprofit organizations to help clients access the services they need.
The company emphasizes the importance of customer service and building trust with their clients, offering warranties and repair services.
They also collaborate with other companies in the industry and refer clients to them when necessary.
HandyPro recommends that companies interested in getting into aging in place modifications hire an occupational therapist and fully understand the industry before offering these services.
They also highlight the value of certifications such as CAPS and CX, as well as the benefits of being a member of organizations like VGM.
Takeaways
Handy Pro Services specializes in home modifications for people with disabilities and those who want to age in place.
Grants and funding options are available for home modifications, but they vary by state and locality.
Occupational therapists play a crucial role in conducting home evaluations and understanding the individual's needs and daily activities.
Technology, such as voice command systems and fall prevention sensors, can enhance home modifications and improve safety.
Insurance coverage for home modifications is limited, and specific long-term disability plans or Medicare may provide some coverage.
HandyPro specializes in aging in place modifications and works closely with occupational therapists to meet the specific needs of each client.
Some insurances may not cover the cost of these modifications, but HandyPro offers financing options and works with grants and nonprofit organizations to help clients access the services they need.
Customer service is a priority for HandyPro, and they offer warranties, repair services, and guidance to navigate the process of home modifications.
Collaboration with other companies in the industry is important, and HandyPro refers clients to them when necessary.
Companies interested in offering aging in place modifications should hire an occupational therapist and fully understand the industry before getting started.
Certifications such as CAPS and CX are recommended.
Being a member of organizations like VGM provides valuable resources and networking opportunities.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
03:40 Inspiration for Focusing on Aging
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website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Ryan Herd, CEO of Caregiver Smart Solutions, shares his journey from the tech industry to founding his company, and discusses the development and functionality of the Caregiver Smart Solutions Core Kit.
The conversation also covers the use of data collected by the Core Kit, privacy issues, system setup, and the unique features of the monitoring system.
The conversation covers the innovative technology of Caregiver Smart Solutions, focusing on in-home monitoring and safety for seniors.
It also delves into the importance of fall prevention and the role of technology in providing peace of mind for family caregivers.
The discussion highlights the company's products, success stories, and the broader mission of enabling a better quality of life for seniors.
Takeaways
Technology can play a crucial role in enabling aging individuals to live independently and safely at home.
The Caregiver Smart Solutions Core Kit monitors activities of daily living without the use of cameras or listening devices, providing valuable insights into the habits and routines of loved ones.
The system allows for customization and control over data access, ensuring privacy and tailored monitoring for individual needs.
The Core Kit's simplicity, effectiveness, and focus on preventing falls and related health issues set it apart from other monitoring systems.
Falls among older adults can have serious and costly consequences, making preventive monitoring systems like the Core Kit essential for aging in place.
Caregiver Smart Solutions provides innovative in-home monitoring technology to ensure the safety and well-being of seniors, offering peace of mind to family caregivers.
The conversation emphasizes the importance of fall prevention and the role of technology in addressing the specific needs of seniors living independently.
The company's mission is to enable a better quality of life for seniors and family caregivers through the use of smart technology and real-time monitoring.
The discussion also highlights the significance of education and awareness in creating safer home environments for seniors, as well as the value of partnerships with industry experts and organizations like AOTA.
Chapters
00:00 Empowering Aging in Place with Technology
03:09 The Core Kit: Monitoring Daily Living Activities
07:24 Customized Monitoring and Privacy Control
15:26 System Setup and Data Access
34:39 Enabling a Better Quality of Life for Seniors
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website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Scott Fulton, an expert in health and housing, discusses his book 'WealthSpan' and the key factors for aging well.
He emphasizes the importance of asking the right questions and designing a framework for health and wealth based on individual values.
The conversation covers topics such as diet, activity, cognitive health, and the impact of lifestyle on aging.
Scott provides insights into preserving health, wealth, and independence as we age.
The conversation covers a range of topics related to aging, health, and well-being. It delves into the importance of diet, exercise, community, and social engagement in aging well.
Additionally, it explores the future of housing and community design for aging in place. Scott Fulton, the president of the National Aging in Place Council, shares valuable insights and perspectives on these topics.
Takeaways
Asking the right questions is essential for designing a framework for health and wealth based on individual values.
Preserving health, wealth, and independence as we age requires a holistic approach that includes diet, activity, and cognitive health.
The impact of lifestyle choices on aging, including the role of diet and exercise, is crucial for maintaining overall well-being.
Understanding the association between cognitive health and cardiovascular health is important for insulating oneself from deterioration in this area.
Chapters
00:00 Insulating Ourselves from Cognitive Deterioration
28:14 The Pillars of Aging Well: Diet, Exercise, and Community
32:16 The Impact of Social Engagement on Health
36:26 The Future of Aging in Place: Housing and Community Design
Buy Scott's Book: Amazon.com: WHEALTHSPAN: More Years, More Moments, More Money: 9798990275904: Fulton, Scott: Books
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website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
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Summary
Deval Patel, CEO of Lotus, shares the story of developing the Lotus ring, a wearable device that controls home appliances.
The ring eliminates the need for rewiring and internet, addressing privacy concerns. It is designed for ease of use and accessibility, benefiting individuals with disabilities, temporary limitations, and situational needs.
The development process involved extensive user interviews and human-centered design. Challenges included engineering a curved ring and ensuring tactile usability for individuals with limited fine motor skills.
The conversation covers the development and features of the Lotus ring, a smart home control device designed for individuals with limited mobility.
It explores the challenges of creating technology for circular devices, the inclusive design approach, and the impact of the product on users' lives.
The conversation also delves into the product's availability, pricing, and customer success stories.
Takeaways
The Lotus ring is a wearable device that controls home appliances, designed for ease of use and accessibility.
The ring eliminates the need for rewiring and internet, addressing privacy concerns associated with smart home technology.
The development process involved extensive user interviews and human-centered design, ensuring that the technology meets the needs of individuals with disabilities, temporary limitations, and situational needs.
Engineering challenges included creating a curved ring and ensuring tactile usability for individuals with limited fine motor skills.
The Lotus ring is designed to provide smart home control for individuals with limited mobility, using inclusive design principles to cater to a diverse range of users.
The challenges of creating technology for circular devices, such as the Lotus ring, include accommodating different finger sizes, curved electronics, and tolerance analysis for assembly.
The product's impact on users' lives is significant, with success stories highlighting increased independence, reduced risk of falling, and emotional well-being.
The availability of the Lotus ring for pre-orders and its pricing make it an accessible and valuable solution for individuals and organizations.
The product has already seen success with government, senior living, and disability organizations, demonstrating its potential to benefit a wide range of users.
Chapters
00:00 Inclusive Design for Smart Home Control
25:20 Challenges of Circular Device Technology
30:16 Impact on User Independence and Well-being
41:29 Availability and Pricing of the Lotus Ring
43:55 Success Stories and Market Adoption
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website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Summary
Nick Middleton, a general contractor and certified Aging in Place specialist, discusses Knoxville Aging in Place and their partnership with Habitat for Humanity.
They offer home modifications such as ramps, walk-in showers, widening doors, and kitchen remodels to help individuals age in place.
Middleton explains the benefits of being part of the VGM Live At Home network, which ensures reliable products and companies.
He also mentions the geographical area they serve, which includes a 40-50 mile radius around Knoxville.
The conversation highlights the success of Knoxville Aging in Place in serving the aging in place market and using Habitat for Humanity as a source for referrals.
Takeaways
Knoxville Aging in Place offers a range of home modifications to help individuals age in place.
The partnership with Habitat for Humanity provides referrals and funding for home modification projects.
Being part of the VGM network ensures reliable products and companies.
Knoxville Aging in Place serves a 40-50 mile radius around Knoxville.
There is a growing need for home modifications as the population ages.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Knoxville Aging in Place
02:36 Services Offered by Knoxville Aging in Place
04:52 Partnership with Habitat for Humanity
08:17 Challenges with Lead-Based Paint Removal
10:38 Expanding Partnerships to Other Counties
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Melissa Hladek, a hoarding remediation expert, shares her career journey and insights into hoarding disorder.
She explains that hoarding is a result of one decision at a time and a lack of follow-through.
Hoarding disorder is a specific medical diagnosis characterized by a lack of insight. Melissa emphasizes the importance of addressing safety hazards in hoarded homes, such as fall risks and poor air quality.
She discusses the initial steps she takes when working with a client, which include listening, assessing the structure, contents, and person, and focusing on short-term safety and long-term quality of life.
Melissa also highlights the emotional and psychological aspects of decluttering and the importance of empathy and collaboration among professionals in healthcare and mental health support.
She advocates for the creation of a licensed professional organizer designation to address hoarding behaviors effectively.
Melissa encourages professionals to report hoarding cases and work together to provide comprehensive support.
She also mentions a petition she created to establish a licensed professional organizer designation.
Takeaways
Hoarding disorder is characterized by a lack of insight and a result of one decision at a time and a lack of follow-through.
Safety hazards in hoarded homes include fall risks and poor air quality.
The initial steps in working with a hoarding client involve listening, assessing the structure, contents, and person, and focusing on short-term safety and long-term quality of life.
Addressing the emotional and psychological aspects of decluttering requires empathy and collaboration among professionals in healthcare and mental health support.
Creating a licensed professional organizer designation can provide comprehensive support for individuals with hoarding disorder.
Professionals should report hoarding cases and work together to address hoarding behaviors effectively.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Career Journey
05:53 Understanding Hoarding Disorder and Its Manifestation
12:08 Addressing Safety Hazards in Hoarded Homes
15:05 The Initial Steps in Working with Hoarding Clients
23:13 The Importance of Collaboration among Professionals
28:53 Advocating for a Licensed Professional Organizer Designation
Website: America's Most Organized
Sign Her Petition: Petition · Establish Licensed Professional Organizer (LPO) as a Recognized Allied Health Profession - United States · Change.org
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
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