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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Deval Patel, CEO and founder of the Lotus Ring, a wearable device that allows users to control various devices by pointing. 

The discussion covers the product's launch success, recognition at CES, and its unique benefits for older adults and people with disabilities. 

Deval shares insights from user experiences, including unexpected use cases and challenges with existing voice assistants. 

The conversation also touches on marketing strategies, product details, and future plans for the Lotus Ring.

Takeaways

The Lotus Ring has received fantastic reviews since its launch.

Recognition by major publications like Ink Magazine highlights its impact.

Meeting Stevie Wonder provided valuable insights into the needs of blind users.

Unexpected use cases include helping older adults navigate their homes safely.

Voice assistants often fail to recognize users with accents or speech impairments.

Setting up smart home devices can be complex and time-consuming.

The Lotus Ring offers a simple, app-free solution for device control.

The product is designed to be user-friendly for older adults and their families.

Battery life of the Lotus Ring is impressive, lasting up to six months.

Future plans include expanding product offerings and potential family sharing options.

Sound Bites

"Isn't it wonderful what you've created?"
"Alexa only listens to my husband."
"There's no need for an app."
"You can take it with you wherever you go."
"You can use it at any family member's home."
"It's been an honor and a privilege."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Lotus Ring
01:04 Launch Success and Recognition
02:13 Meeting Stevie Wonder and Insights on Blind Navigation
06:08 Unexpected Use Cases for Older Adults
08:35 Aha Moments and User Experiences
12:21 Challenges with Voice Assistants
14:29 The Complexity of Smart Home Setup
15:57 The Versatility of the Lotus Ring
19:08 Marketing Strategies for Older Adults
21:31 Product Details and Pricing
24:02 Future Plans and Family Sharing
26:05 Battery Life and User Experience
28:05 Conclusion and Future Updates

website: Lotus: Control Objects at Home by Pointing

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel and Jeff Weiss, President & CEO of Age of Majority, discuss the evolving expectations of Baby Boomers regarding senior living communities, emphasizing the importance of food quality, autonomy, and the role of technology.

They explore the challenges these communities face in meeting the diverse needs of older adults while addressing misconceptions about aging and technology use.

In this conversation, Janet Engel and Jeff Weiss explore the evolving landscape of aging, technology, and senior living.

They debunk myths surrounding older adults and technology, emphasizing that many are tech-savvy and engaged online.

The discussion shifts to the impact of COVID-19 on senior living communities, highlighting both the challenges and adaptations that have occurred.

They also discuss innovations in senior living, including the importance of user-friendly technology and the need for communities to cater to health and accessibility.

Finally, they envision future living arrangements that focus on shared interests and community engagement, aiming to enhance the quality of life for older adults.

Takeaways

Older adults are more focused on health and wellness than previous generations.

Food quality and variety are critical factors for Baby Boomers when choosing senior living communities.

Many older adults want to remain productive and engaged in their communities.

Perceptions of senior living often lean towards negative stereotypes.

A significant percentage of Baby Boomers prefer to age in place rather than move to a community.

Independence and autonomy are paramount for older adults considering senior living.

Technology can enhance the lives of older adults and should be embraced by communities.

There is a gap between the perceptions of senior living operators and potential residents.

Communities must offer more than just basic living arrangements to attract residents.

Baby Boomers are generally comfortable with technology and use it to enhance their lives. Older adults are often more technologically advanced than younger generations.

Technology must serve a practical purpose to be adopted by older adults.

User-friendly design is crucial for technology aimed at older adults.

Designing for older adults can benefit users of all ages.

Age-related vision changes begin around age 40, not 75.

COVID-19 has negatively impacted perceptions of senior living communities.

Air quality and lighting are critical factors in senior living design.

Communities should focus on health and safety, not just accessibility.

Changing the narrative around aging can improve quality of life.

Interest-based communities can enhance social connections for seniors.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
05:58 The Importance of Food Quality in Senior Living
12:12 Perceptions of Senior Living Communities
18:14 Independence and Autonomy in Senior Living
24:12 Misconceptions About Older Adults and Technology
30:40 Debunking Myths of Aging and Technology
36:49 The Impact of COVID-19 on Senior Living
42:43 Innovations in Senior Living Communities
48:00 Creating Interest-Based Communities for Seniors

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Tom Nardone, founder of Dignity Lifts, about his innovative products designed to assist individuals with mobility challenges in using the toilet independently.

They discuss the importance of toilet accessibility, the installation and functionality of Dignity Lifts, and Tom's journey into the Longevity Economy, highlighting the lack of innovation in products for older adults and women.

In this conversation, Tom Nardone discusses innovative solutions for incontinence care, particularly focusing on the Dignity Lift, a toilet lift designed to enhance independence for individuals with mobility challenges.

He emphasizes the importance of female perspectives in product design, the real-life impact of the Dignity Lift on users, and the economic benefits of such devices in preventing assisted living.

The conversation also touches on future innovations in toileting solutions and the comparative analysis of existing products in the market.

Takeaways

Dignity Lifts provides essential products for toilet accessibility.

Toilet height can significantly impact bowel movement ability.

Installation of Dignity Lifts is straightforward and user-friendly.

Innovative products can enhance independence for those with mobility issues.

The Longevity Economy lacks product developers focused on older adults.

Humor can play a vital role in marketing assistive devices.

Tom's background as a mechanical engineer informs his product development.

There is a significant gap in innovation for women's health products.

Dignity Lifts aims to improve quality of life for its users.

Understanding customer needs is crucial for product design. The Pure Wick has revolutionized incontinence care for women.

Female engineers are crucial for designing products that meet women's needs.

Clothing management during toileting is a significant challenge for those with mobility issues.

The Dignity Lift promotes independence and dignity for users.

Many customers purchase the Dignity Lift out of necessity, not as a luxury.

The VA supports the use of toilet lifts to keep veterans at home.

Economic factors play a significant role in the decision to use toilet lifts.

The Dignity Lift has received high praise from users for restoring independence.

There is a growing market for innovative toileting solutions.

Future innovations may focus on enhancing existing products rather than creating new ones.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dignity Lifts
05:38 Installation and Functionality of Dignity Lifts
16:39 Tom's Journey into the Longevity Economy
22:14 Innovative Solutions for Incontinence Care
29:47 Enhancing Independence with the Dignity Lift
35:04 Comparative Analysis of Toilet Lifts

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Sally Duplantier, a gerontologist and founder of Zing, a mission-driven company aimed at helping older adults live their best lives.

Sally shares her journey of entrepreneurship, the evolution of Zing during the pandemic, and the importance of public health education and health equity.

They discuss the significance of healthy aging, the impact of Wellness Wednesdays, and the feedback from participants.

Sally emphasizes the need for a lifespan approach to healthy aging and the importance of community support.

The conversation also touches on personal insights into living with vitality, addressing grief and loss, and Sally's aspirations for the future of Zing.

Takeaways

Sally Duplantier has reinvented her career multiple times, leading to the creation of Zing.

Zing's mission is to help older adults live their best lives through education and support.

The pandemic forced Zing to adapt, leading to the creation of Wellness Wednesdays.

Wellness Wednesdays has grown to include over 15,000 participants from 57 countries.

Healthy aging is a lifelong journey, and it's never too late to start making positive changes.

80% of chronic diseases are linked to lifestyle choices, highlighting the importance of education.

Sally emphasizes the importance of community support and health equity in aging.

Participants of Wellness Wednesdays report increased awareness and motivation regarding their health.

Sally's personal approach to health includes prioritizing nutrition, movement, and sleep.

The conversation highlights the importance of addressing grief and loss as part of the aging process.

Sound Bites

"I started my first business when I was 28."
"Zing is a mission-driven company."
"You're never too old to make positive change."
"I love what I do."
"We're all getting older."
"You matter as an older adult."
"You have your own unique gift."
"Don't compare your gift to someone else's."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sally Duplantier and Zing
02:13 The Evolution of Zing During the Pandemic
04:54 Public Health Education and Health Equity
06:33 The Importance of Healthy Aging
09:15 Wellness Wednesdays: A New Approach to Health
14:25 Guest Highlights and Topics on Wellness Wednesdays
18:52 Exploring Peptide Therapy and Gut Health
22:38 Community Impact and Feedback from Participants
25:31 Global Perspectives on Aging
26:57 Living with Vitality: Sally's Personal Insights
31:30 Addressing Grief and Loss in Aging
36:34 Future Aspirations for Zing and Personal Growth

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Cathi Coridan, a senior real estate specialist, who shares her insights on helping seniors navigate the complexities of life transitions, particularly in real estate.

Cathi discusses her background in human services and how it informs her approach to real estate, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in assisting seniors.

The conversation covers various aspects of planning for transitions, maintaining control during the process, and the significance of having a plan in place for future moves.

Cathi also shares her personal experience of moving cross country and the lessons learned from that process.

In this conversation, Cathi Coridan discusses the complexities of caregiving for aging parents, emphasizing the importance of communication, recognizing health changes, and planning for transitions.

She highlights the need for caregivers to take care of themselves, the significance of local resources, and the emotional aspects of legacy planning.

The discussion also covers effective strategies for approaching sensitive conversations with seniors and the misconceptions surrounding transition planning.

Takeaways

Cathi emphasizes the importance of empathy in real estate for seniors.

Life transitions for seniors are often more than just real estate transactions.

Planning ahead can help seniors maintain control over their decisions.

Involving family in the planning process is crucial for emotional support.

Seniors often resist the idea of planning for future moves.

Cathi's personal experience highlights the need for a solid plan when moving.

Making a home safer can enhance the living experience for seniors.

It's essential to have legal documents in place before making significant transitions.

Cathi encourages seniors to explore their options without commitment.

The role of a senior real estate specialist extends beyond selling houses. Establish a clear communication plan for emergencies.

Recognize and address changes in senior health promptly.

Assess living conditions to understand the needs of seniors.

Utilize local resources for better support and care.

Involve seniors in legacy planning to respect their wishes.

Self-care is crucial for caregivers to avoid burnout.

Effective communication is key in transition planning.

Planning can be a gradual process, not an all-or-nothing approach.

Understand the emotional connections seniors have with their belongings.

Explore local options for senior care rather than relying on online searches.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Senior Real Estate Specialist

05:47 Maintaining Control During Transitions

11:52 Personal Experience: Moving Cross Country

21:00 Key Factors for Short and Long-Term Moves

28:12 Recognizing Changes in Senior Health

34:34 The Importance of Local Resources

40:16 Self-Care Strategies for Caregivers

48:26 Finding Local Resources and Support

Want to Contact Cathi:
[email protected]

www.yourtransitionpartner.com

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Scott and Sarah Pruitt, co-founders of the UD Project, focusing on the importance of universal design in creating accessible homes.

They discuss their mission to increase the demand for universally accessible housing, the role of education in bridging knowledge gaps between builders and consumers, and the impact of home design on quality of life.

The conversation also highlights the collaborative efforts needed across various disciplines to improve accessibility and the significance of personal stories in understanding the real-life implications of housing design.

Additionally, they share insights about their educational resources and podcast aimed at raising awareness about universal design.

In this conversation, Scott and Sarah discuss the importance of universal design and home modifications to enhance accessibility and functionality for individuals, particularly as they age.

They emphasize the need for planning ahead to create safe and comfortable living environments, addressing consumer needs, and the balance between functionality and aesthetics in design.

The discussion also highlights the challenges of making modifications and the importance of education for both consumers and professionals in the field.

Takeaways

The mission of the UD Project is to increase demand for accessible homes.

Education is crucial for both builders and consumers to understand accessibility needs.

There is a significant gap in knowledge regarding universal design.

Home design impacts not only physical accessibility but also mental health and quality of life.

Collaboration among professionals is essential for effective universal design solutions.

Personal experiences highlight the importance of accessible housing.

The UD Project offers courses that cater to various audiences, including consumers and professionals.

Understanding the whole environment is key to effective universal design.

The podcast serves as a platform for sharing insights and experiences related to universal design.

More universally accessible homes are needed to improve community integration for individuals with disabilities.

Understanding consumer needs is crucial for effective universal design.

Home modifications can significantly enhance accessibility and safety.
Planning for aging in place should start early to avoid last-minute changes.

Assessing the home environment is the first step in making modifications.

Small changes can lead to significant improvements in functionality.

Design should balance aesthetics with accessibility.

Education is key for consumers and professionals in universal design.

There are cost-effective options for home modifications.

Creating a zero-step entrance is essential for aging in place.

Universal design can be both functional and beautiful.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Universal Design and Its Importance

06:08 The Role of Education in Universal Design

11:56 The Impact of Home Design on Quality of Life

18:00 Collaboration Across Disciplines

23:58 Podcast Insights and Community Engagement

33:50 Home Modifications for Accessibility

42:00 Planning for Aging in Place

48:01 Designing for Functionality and Aesthetics

Important Links

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Eve Hill, an aging in place specialist realtor, and founder of Customized Aging about the impact of ageism on older adults and the importance of home modifications for aging in place.

Eve shares her personal journey that led her to focus on ageism awareness and discusses the four types of ageism: internalized, interpersonal, institutional, and ideological.

They explore how media representation affects perceptions of aging and highlight the importance of technology in supporting older adults.

Eve also introduces innovative age-tech products that can enhance the quality of life for seniors.

The conversation explores innovative technologies and solutions for aging in place, particularly for individuals with dementia. It discusses the role of ambient AI, remote monitoring, and home technologies that enhance personal hygiene and safety.

The importance of universal design in home modifications is emphasized, along with financial resources available for aging in place.

The discussion also addresses the cost-effectiveness of home modifications compared to assisted living and the need to combat ageism to improve outcomes for older adults.

Takeaways

Ageism is prevalent and often unconscious.

Home environments often do not support aging in place.

Universal design can benefit everyone, not just the elderly.

Internalized ageism affects decision-making about home modifications.

Interpersonal ageism can undermine older adults' confidence.

Institutional ageism impacts healthcare policies and practices.

Media representation of older adults is often negative or absent.

Older adults are increasingly tech-savvy and adaptable.

Positive views on aging can lead to longer, healthier lives.

Innovative age-tech products can significantly improve quality of life.

Innovative technologies can significantly improve dementia care.

Ambient AI offers privacy-friendly monitoring solutions.

AI companions can assist with medication and appointments.

Home technologies like induction stoves enhance safety.

Personal hygiene technologies can reduce health risks.

Universal design benefits all age groups.

Financial resources exist for home modifications.

Proactive home modifications can delay assisted living.

Reverse mortgages are underutilized for aging in place.

Combating ageism can lead to better health outcomes.

Sound Bites

"I want to bust the ageism that's in ourselves."

"Most homes in the U.S. were not built with the longevity revolution in mind."

"Internalized ageism really can have a big impact."

"Less agitation for caregivers and families."

"Remote monitoring without cameras is possible."

"AI companions can help with medication reminders."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Aging in Place and Ageism

04:14 Understanding Ageism: The Four I's

12:46 Ideological Ageism: Media's Role in Aging Perception

20:06 Technology and Aging: Debunking Myths

25:02 Innovative Age-Tech Products for Better Living

27:31 The Role of Ambient AI in Healthcare

29:41 Home Technologies for Aging in Place

32:09 The Importance of Universal Design

37:24 Cost-Effectiveness of Home Modificati

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Jamal Stevenson, the key sales officer at We Hear You, a company that started as a sign language translation service and has evolved into creating innovative accessibility solutions.

The focus is on their latest product, the Hero Door Opener, which aims to make any door automatic and accessible for individuals with mobility issues, aging populations, and those with full hands.

Jamal discusses the technology behind the Hero Door Opener, its features, and future developments, including partnerships for smart lock systems.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of universal design and community engagement in making homes more accessible.

Takeaways

We Hear You started as a sign language company in 2017.

The Hero Door Opener allows any door to become automatic.

Accessibility solutions benefit not just individuals with disabilities but everyone.

The push app integrates voice activation for ease of use.

Future developments include a vibration system for low vision individuals.

Testing opportunities are available for community engagement.

The goal is to make accessibility affordable and portable.

Universal design is crucial for homes to accommodate all ages and abilities.

The Hero Door Opener is designed to be easy to install and use.

We Hear You is focused on making a real impact in the community.

Sound Bites

"We created a receiver that retrofits into existing doors."

"This is a common struggle for just a regular door."

"We are developing a vibration system for low vision individuals."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to We Hear You and Its Origins

02:08 The Hero Door Opener: Revolutionizing Accessibility

04:47 Innovative Features of the Hero Door Opener

13:05 Expanding Accessibility: Future Developments

22:05 Testing Opportunities and Community Engagement

26:40 The Importance of Universal Design in Homes

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel and Maria Lindberg, OTR/L, discuss the importance of home modifications, particularly in the bathroom, for older adults.

They explore the challenges faced by seniors in maintaining independence and safety at home, the innovative solutions provided by Toilet Talk, and the role of Jukebox Health in facilitating home modifications.

The discussion also touches on emerging technologies, advocacy for legislation supporting home modifications, and the significance of occupational therapy in this field.

Takeaways

Home modifications can significantly improve independence for older adults.

The bathroom poses the highest risk for falls among seniors.

Toilet height and accessibility are crucial for safety.

Bidets can enhance hygiene and dignity for older adults.

Emerging technologies can assist in monitoring the well-being of seniors.

Advocacy is essential for improving access to home modifications.

Occupational therapists play a vital role in home modification recommendations.

Community partnerships can help fund necessary home modifications.

Legislation is needed to support home modifications for all income levels.

Education and resources are key to empowering seniors to live safely at home.

Sound Bites

"Nobody's goal is to live in a nursing home."

"The number one room is the bathroom."

"Showers can make people feel very tired."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Toilet Talk and Home Modifications

01:22 The Journey of Home Modifications

03:21 The Birth of Toilet Talk

06:19 Common Bathroom Challenges for Older Adults

10:43 The Importance of Safe Bathroom Design

15:31 Recommendations for Bathroom Modifications

22:20 Emerging Technologies for Aging in Place

31:36 Jukebox Health: A New Approach to Home Modifications

36:01 Advocacy for Home Modification Legislation

Here's the link for OTs interested in joining Jukebox Health.
Here's the passive monitoring system I was talking about: Mimzy!

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Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Mark Conacher, Managing Director of SENSTEC USA, about his extensive career in the kitchen and bath industry and the innovative anti-slip technology of  shower trays.

Mark shares insights into the unique features of the SENSTEC'S showerpan, including its patented design, materials used, and the importance of safety in the bathroom, especially for aging populations.

The discussion also covers the product's comfort, maintenance, pricing, customization options, and future innovations, emphasizing the need for effective safety solutions in everyday life.

Takeaways

Mark Conacher has a long career in the kitchen and bath industry.

SENSTEC'S howerpan features a unique patented design for safety.

The showerpan's dimples create an anti-slip surface that is easy to clean.

The materials used in the shower tray contribute to its effectiveness and low maintenance.

Comfort is a key feature of the SENSTEC showerpan, providing a spa-like experience.

The pricing of SENSTEC products reflects their quality and safety features.

Customization options are available for different sizes and colors of shower trays.

Future innovations may include a slab effect design for a contemporary look.

SENSTEC aims to educate customers about the importance of non-slip technology.

Safety in the shower is crucial for all, especially for aging populations.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mark Conacher and His Journey

05:08 Innovative Technology: SENSTEC Showerpan

16:00 Materials and Maintenance: The Science Behind Safety

25:21 Comfort and User Experience: A New Standard

28:45 Pricing and Value: Investing in Safety

32:59 Customization and Installation: Tailoring to Needs

36:19 Future Innovations: What's Next for SENSTEC?

37:51 Availability and Distribution: Where to Find SENSTEC

40:40 Connecting Customers with Installers: Building a Network

44:32 The Importance of Safety: Understanding Non-Slip Technology

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