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 101 episodes available.
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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
Here's the link to our main site:
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
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
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
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
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
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!
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
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
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
Summary
In this conversation, Daniel Fuchs shares his insights on multi-generational living, drawing from his personal experiences as a caregiver for his father with Alzheimer's.
He discusses the increasing trend of families living together, especially post-COVID, and the emotional and financial benefits that come with it.
Daniel emphasizes the importance of designing homes for multi-generational living, including the need for separation and privacy, and explores the concept of aging in place.
He also highlights the role of technology in enhancing communication and safety within these households.
Finally, he introduces his book, 'The Ultimate Guide to Multi-Generational Living,' which offers practical advice and insights for families considering this lifestyle.
Takeaways
One in four families in the US lives in a multi-generational arrangement.
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased interest in multi-generational living.
Personal experiences can shape one's approach to caregiving and home design.
Aging in place is a priority for many seniors.
Separation and privacy are crucial in multi-generational households.
ADUs provide a practical solution for multi-generational living.
Emotional benefits include stronger family bonds and shared experiences.
Home technology can enhance safety and communication.
Effective communication is key to managing family dynamics.
Daniel's book offers resources and insights for families considering multi-generational living.
Sound Bites
"One in four families lives in a multi-generational arrangement."
"I had to relocate my entire family."
"I became a first-hand caregiver."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Multi-Generational Living
10:04 The Importance of Aging in Place
11:36 Designing for Multi-Generational Living
14:40 Understanding Aging in Place
19:37 Emotional Benefits of Multi-Generational Living
24:22 Design Features for Privacy and Separation
28:06 The Rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)
33:22 Home Technology in Multi-Generational Households
39:19 The Ultimate Guide to Multi-Generational Living
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Nancy Griffin, CEO and founder of Glowing Older, about her journey in the podcasting world and the evolving perspectives on aging.
They discuss the rampant ageism in society, the importance of planning for aging, and the innovations in senior living and technology that are shaping the future of aging well.
Nancy shares insights from her 190 episodes, emphasizing the need for a values-based approach to aging and the significance of intergenerational connections.
The conversation highlights the impact of COVID-19 on senior living and the necessity of community engagement in addressing the challenges faced by older adults.
Takeaways
Ageism is a significant barrier to aging well.
Planning for aging should start early and be values-based.
Innovations in technology are crucial for aging in place.
The Greenhouse Project offers a better model for senior living.
COVID-19 highlighted the flaws in traditional senior living models.
Intergenerational connections can benefit both younger and older generations.
Community engagement is essential for addressing aging challenges.
Caregiving often leads to health and financial strain for caregivers.
Conversations about aging need to be destigmatized.
Older adults can lead fulfilling lives with proper planning and support.
Sound Bites
"Ageism affects everything, whether it's cultural or societal."
"We're starting to have the conversation about ageism."
"Technology for aging in place is the biggest area of growth."
Chapters
00:00 The Birth of Glowing Older Podcast
03:31 Changing Perspectives on Aging
06:08 Innovations in Aging and Senior Living
10:30 The Role of Technology in Aging
14:14 Trends in Senior Living and Aging Well
18:15 The Impact of COVID-19 on Senior Living
22:46 Lessons Learned from 190 Episodes
29:34 Planning for Aging: A Values-Based Approach
34:30 Coaching and Community Engagement
38:34 The Importance of Intergenerational Connections
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
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
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.
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
Support the show
website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/
Email: [email protected]
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