Innovative Aging

About Innovative Aging

Innovative Aging is a Medbridge podcast exploring bold solutions to common challenges in aging and rehabilitation. Each episode breaks down timely clinical questions and equips therapy practitioners with practical, real-world takeaways — from adaptive design to emerging technologies. To receive continuing education credit (CEUs) for each episode and access bonus resources, visit medbridge.com and complete the accompanying quiz.

Publisher

Medbridge Podcasts

Category

education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

15 Aug 2025

Latest episode

15 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Sept 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 14: Cognitive Impairment and Phones: Can Simplified Devices Prolong Connection?

   Join host Carol Chiang, OTR/L, CAPS, ECHM, CHAMP (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang), as she sits down with Robert Felgar, CEO of RAZ Mobility and former telecommunications attorney, to discuss bridging communication barriers for clients with cognitive impairment. Drawing on his extensive experience developing tailored mobile solutions for individuals with dementia, low vision, and tremors, Robert shares how simplified technology can safely extend independence and ease caregiver strain. In this episode, we unpack the cognitive demands of modern smartphones, explore adaptive options across the technology continuum, and highlight actionable remote management strategies to keep your clients connected. You will walk away with a practical framework to help families select and configure the right device before social isolation takes hold. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around cell phone use and mobile technology challenges for clients experiencing cognitive impairment Apply practical, evidence-based strategies to actionably address cell phone selection, configuration, and implementation for clients with cognitive impairment Solve patient case scenarios involving mobile device selection and remote caregiver management for clients with cognitive impairment Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) Intro (00:00:29) Meet Robert Felgar and RAS Mobility (00:06:03) The biggest smartphone frustrations for people with cognitive impairment (00:09:04) How simple tasks like calling 911 become complex (00:14:33) Low vision and hand tremor accessibility features (00:17:22) One-touch calling and simpler incoming calls (00:18:10) Customization and optional features (00:21:55) Remote management for caregivers (00:24:00) Scam blocking, allow lists, and text protection (00:28:04) Repetitive calling, nighttime calls, and reminders (00:33:14) Emergency calling and private dispatch (00:35:37) Explaining phone use and dementia to caregivers (00:39:30) Comparing options for phone technology (00:46:01) How to know whether a phone is a good fit (00:49:30) Funding options and pricing (00:53:52) Key takeaways for clinicians Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

2. 

   14 Aug 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 13: Aging in Place: How Do We Navigate the Reimbursement Gap?

   Join host Carol Chiang, OTR/L, CAPS, ECHM, CHAMP (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang), as she sits down with expert occupational therapists Dawn Heiderscheidt, OTR/L, CAPS, and Sydney Marshman, OTD, OTR/L, BCG. In this episode, our guests share their extensive experience navigating the financial realities of home modifications, blending evidence-based frameworks with creative funding strategies. You will discover how to push past traditional medical models, advocate for the innate value of therapy, and build an intentional local network to actionably overcome client coverage gaps. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around the cost-efficiency of proactive home modifications and the clinical limitations of evidence-based programs or grant-funded assistance programs Apply practical, evidence-based strategies to actionably address client financial barriers across varying income levels, utilizing creative funding solutions and tiered home modifications Solve patient case scenarios utilizing community resources to optimize client-centered aging-in-place goals while considering reimbursement gaps Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) Celebrating the Innovative Aging podcast (00:00:53) The financial reality of aging in place (00:03:04) Introducing expert guests Dawn and Sydney (00:05:38) Research and cost-benefit analysis in home modifications (00:11:04) Understanding the CAPABLE and HARP models (00:18:24) Nonprofit partnerships and their challenges (00:22:55) Navigating coverage gaps in home modifications (00:26:12) Creative solutions for aging in place (00:29:14) Financial planning for home modifications (00:31:44) High-impact home modifications (00:35:50) The real-life impact of home modifications (00:41:30) Key takeaways and future directions Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

3. 

   15 Jul 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 12: Aging in Place: Is the PEO Model the Key to Success? (Live Podcast Recording)

   Pamela E. Toto, PhD, OTR/L, BCG, FAOTA, FGSA (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/pamela-toto-occupational-therapy), an internationally recognized expert in gerontology and director of the University of Pittsburgh Healthy Home Laboratory, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) to explore the front lines of aging in place. Together, they discuss how a “living laboratory” is bridging the gap between clinical care and independent living by piloting smart-home technologies in real-world settings. You will discover how to apply the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) Model to overcome environmental barriers—like the steep stairs and cramped spaces of historic homes—while learning to intervene early to extend client autonomy. Tune in to gain actionable insights on navigating funding challenges and using modern technology solutions to optimize home safety for your older adult patients. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around the most effective solutions, including facilitators and barriers, that promote aging in place Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address aging in place through person-environment-occupation (PEO) modifications and smart-home technology Solve patient case scenarios involving common clinical, functional, and behavioral challenges to aging in place Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:03:40) Background and development of guest speaker's PEO model (00:06:22) Statistics around aging in place (00:09:15) Flexible definition of “home“ as a productive starting point (00:11:35) Developing the PEO model through the OT lens (00:17:38) Collaborating to break down community silos (00:20:00) University of Pittsburgh School of Health‘s “The Hub“ project (00:23:00) Using the lab to educate the community (00:25:10) Person-centered approach to technology in the home (00:28:14) Building solutions to home hurdles, such as grabbers, chair rails, and stairs (00:39:30) Available resources for products and services (00:46:27) First steps with in-home strategies for clients (00:51:30) Financial challenges with home modifications (00:55:43) Top three takeaways (00:59:00) Q&A on developing a toolkit for in-home smart technology Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

4. 

   15 Jun 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 11: Tremor Management: Can Social Isolation Be Reduced With Earthquake Tech?

   Join host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) and Emile Maamary, cofounder of Steadiwear, as they discuss how structural engineering and earthquake-design technology are revolutionizing tremor management. You will discover the functional and psychological differences between Parkinson’s and essential tremor and how battery-free, adaptive stabilization can restore independence in high-stakes social activities like dining or self-care. This conversation explores moving beyond traditional weighted vests or medication to offer your patients a noninvasive “superpower” for daily function. Learn how these innovative tools can bridge the gap in the continuum of care to reduce social isolation and improve long-term quality of life. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around the efficacy of biomechanical stabilization and anti-vibration technologies in reducing the global burden and functional impact of essential tremor and Parkinson’s disease Determine the situations in which noninvasive, battery-free wearable devices using tuned mass damping provide the most benefit for patients seeking to maintain independence in ADLs and social participation Solve patient case scenarios involving action tremors and associated secondary risks, such as social isolation, by integrating conservative stabilization tools into a multisystem continuum of care Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) Understanding the impact of tremors on daily life (00:02:25) Guest introduction (00:03:32) The differences between Parkinson's and essential tremor (00:07:20) Exploring solutions for tremor management (00:17:11) The role of technology in tremor suppression (00:20:40) A new approach to tremor management (00:31:45) Deciding which treatment is right for a patient (00:37:45) Real-world applications and success stories (00:40:55) Top three actionable takeaways Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

5. 

   15 May 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 10: Science Friction: Can Bed Mobility Be Easier for Patients and Caregivers?

   Nancy McGovern, retired physiotherapist and healthcare innovator, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) to explore a deceptively simple question: Can sheets and sleepwear be designed to make bed mobility easier? With more than 50 years of experience as a physiotherapist, injury prevention advisor, and innovator across all healthcare sectors, Nancy shares the clinically driven journey behind her development of a mobility-enhancing garment and sheet system. Together, she and Carol discuss practical challenges faced by patients and caregivers and what the science says about friction-reducing textiles. Whether you’re working with clients poststroke, managing nocturnal immobility in Parkinson’s, or simply looking for smarter ways to support aging in place, this conversation may change how you think about the bed itself. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence on the effectiveness of friction-reducing assistive devices in reducing the risks associated with manual bed repositioning Determine the situations in which a mobility-enhancing garment and sheet set provides the most benefit for clients and caregivers Solve patient case scenarios involving impaired bed mobility by applying friction-reducing systems that support safe movement and reduce caregiver burden Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:00) The aging population and caregiver challenges (00:03:00) Nancy McGovern’s journey and Comfort Linen (00:05:30) Development of slider sheets and their impact (00:09:03) Transitioning to consumer products (00:11:20) Feedback from healthcare professionals (00:16:10) Textile technology and its importance (00:19:00) Innovative solutions for Parkinson’s patients (00:27:30) Innovative solutions for bed mobility (00:31:20) Real-life success stories (00:37:44) Assessing patient needs (00:42:00) Adapting to changing conditions (00:45:01) Understanding the root causes of discomfort (00:47:29) Key takeaways for clinicians Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

6. 

   15 Apr 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 9: Live Virtual Travel: Can It Drive Motivation, Interest, and Engagement?

   Tricia Norton, cofounder of Discover Live, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) for a dynamic conversation on the power of live virtual travel experiences. Together, they explore how this innovative platform can break down barriers to meaningful participation, especially for individuals with mobility, cognitive, or sensory challenges. You’ll hear compelling stories, practical clinical insights, and new ways to think about using virtual travel to spark motivation and support occupational engagement. Are you curious how live guided tours offer more than prerecorded alternatives? Let’s find out together. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around the impact of virtual travel experiences on social participation, cognitive performance, and occupational engagement among individuals with mobility or sensory limitations Determine the situations in which live, guided virtual travel provides the most benefit compared to asynchronous or prerecorded alternatives, especially in the context of intergenerational engagement, dementia care, or sensory-based interventions Solve patient case scenarios involving occupational isolation due to physical, cognitive, or contextual barriers by integrating virtual travel into individualized care plans to promote meaningful participation and life satisfaction Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) Transforming travel for all (00:04:52) The power of virtual experiences (00:06:30) The value of travel in later life (00:11:18) The future of travel: accessibility and engagement (00:13:43) Intergenerational connections through travel (00:16:05) Heritage travel and ancestry tours (00:19:48) Hybrid travel experiences (00:25:01) Addressing budget concerns in travel (00:27:32) Unexpected outcomes of virtual travel (00:30:07) Cultural awareness through exploration (00:31:47) Engagement and curiosity in virtual travel (00:35:29) Interactive learning and memory enhancement (00:37:31) Integrating culinary experiences in travel (00:41:22) Choosing the right travel experience for patients (00:45:09) Sensory diet and tailored experiences (00:48:48) Key takeaways for clinicians Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

7. 

   13 Mar 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 8: Simple Fall Prevention: What Interventions Work Without Wi-Fi or Apps?

   Dhaval Patel, former Apple engineer and founder of Lotus, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) to explore fall prevention strategies that don’t rely on apps, Wi-Fi, or complex installations. Carol and Dhaval dig into why tech doesn’t always equal accessibility—and how simple, portable tools can still make a powerful impact on safety and independence. Together, they uncover which interventions are a fit for real-life aging adults, whether you're working in the home, clinic, or community. Tune in to learn how you can match the right tech to the right patient—without adding frustration or hassle. Learning Outcomes Analyze the evidence around the limitations of Wi-Fi-dependent smart home technology in fall prevention and independence support Determine the situations in which simple, portable, and privacy-respecting assistive technologies provide the most benefit for individuals at risk of falls Solve patient case scenarios involving fall risk reduction by applying human-centered, behavior-conserving interventions that increase environmental control and reduce caregiver burden Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) The promise and pitfalls of smart home technology (00:02:52) Introducing lotus: a solution for independence (00:06:20) User feedback: the emotional need for independence (00:10:15) The importance of energy conservation (00:11:47) Tech readiness: understanding the user's perspective (00:13:45) Finding the right balance: high-tech vs. low-tech solutions (00:18:02) The simplicity of lotus: a user-friendly approach (00:20:41) The future of smart home technology (00:22:52) Innovative control: the ring technology (00:29:10) Expanding use cases: from adults to children (00:32:09) Breaking barriers: accessibility for all (00:37:24) Old tech, new solutions: the universal use of infrared (00:44:50) Choosing the right solution: tailoring technology to users (00:49:15) Top three takeaways for practitioners Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

8. 

   13 Feb 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 7: Assisted Bathing: How Can We Promote Modesty, Comfort, and Cooperation?

   Jodi Bellam, founder of The Blue Hug and a seasoned homecare agency owner with over 16 years of experience, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang), to unpack one of caregiving’s most sensitive challenges: bathing. Together, Carol and Jodi explore why this essential ADL often sparks resistance and what clinicians can do to ease that burden. You’ll hear stories from the field, and you’ll learn about creative strategies and new tools designed to preserve dignity, increase cooperation, and reduce caregiver stress. Whether you’re troubleshooting a tough case or seeking fresh solutions, this conversation will leave you feeling more equipped and empowered. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence around resistance to bathing and its implications for caregiver burden and client well-being Determine the situations in which modesty-preserving bathing aids and structured routines provide the most benefit for maintaining dignity, safety, and ADL engagement Solve patient case scenarios involving barriers to bathing due to cognitive decline, trauma history, or sensory sensitivities using adaptive equipment and evidence-informed strategies Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:02:05) Jodi Bellam’s journey into senior care (00:03:29) The Blue Hug: a sensory approach to safety (00:07:30) The role of relationship and trust in caregiving (00:08:40) Challenges of facility-based vs. in-home care (00:10:30) Addressing modesty and the “opposite-sex problem” (00:11:18) Clinical “battle plans” and modesty solutions (00:15:25) Evaluating market solutions and product innovation (00:23:51) Clinical reasoning: when to use specialized garments (00:31:00) Improving the caregiver experience (00:32:30) Success stories: restoring options and hygiene (00:39:49) Top takeaways for clinicians Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

9. 

   15 Jan 2026

   Innovative Aging Episode 6: Future of Fall Prevention: Can Objective Data Empower Clients?

   Dr. Katharine Forth, PhD in Human Motor Control and former NASA researcher, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) for a deep dive into one of rehab’s most pressing challenges: fall prevention. With her out-of-this-world perspective on balance science, Katey and Carol explore how shifting from subjective observation to objective measurement can transform client outcomes. Together, they unpack why data-driven insights may be the key to motivating clients, tracking progress, and reducing fear. You’ll walk away with practical strategies—and maybe a new way to think about balance entirely. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence around fall risk assessment to inform care plans that optimize outcomes Determine the clinical situations in which measuring balance and fall risk provides the greatest benefit Solve patient case scenarios involving emerging fall risk, hidden deficits, and fluctuating balance Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) Understanding the impact of falls on older adults (00:01:48) Introducing Dr. Katharine Forth (00:02:56) The multifactorial nature of falls (00:04:56) The role of psychology in fall risk (00:07:55) The importance of context in fall risk (00:11:25) Assessing balance: a complex equation (00:15:24) Personalization in fall prevention strategies (00:18:48) Measuring balance: technology vs. traditional methods (00:25:46) Curiosity and patient engagement in fall prevention (00:27:07) Empowering patients through self-measurement (00:30:40) The role of competition in therapy (00:37:25) Understanding the six pillars of balance (00:41:29) The importance of measurement in therapy (00:48:58) Key takeaways for clinicians Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

10. 

    15 Dec 2025

    Innovative Aging Episode 5: Kitchen Safety Strategies: How Can Technology Support Aging Adults?

    Akshita Iyer, CEO of Ome, joins host ⁠Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang)⁠ to discuss how smart kitchen technology can help older adults maintain safety and independence at home. Together, they reflect on personal and clinical stories that highlight the emotional weight of kitchen-related safety decisions and the rising role of tech in reducing caregiver burden. You’ll gain insights into assessing risk, tailoring solutions to individual needs, and leveraging data to inform conversations about aging in place. Tune in for a practical, forward-thinking discussion that invites you to rethink how we approach home safety for aging adults. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence around kitchen-related safety risks and their impact on aging in place Determine the situations in which smart kitchen technology provides the most benefit for reducing caregiver burden and supporting older adults’ safety during meal preparation Solve patient case scenarios involving cognitive, motor, or sensory challenges that increase kitchen safety risks in older adults Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) The importance of cooking for older adults (00:02:30) Technology as a safety net in the kitchen (00:04:25) Personal stories and the impact of aging (00:09:07) Challenges faced by older adults in cooking (00:12:51) Innovative solutions for kitchen safety (00:13:15) The role of data in enhancing safety (00:15:35) Building relationships through technology (00:16:50) Proactive vs. reactive approaches in care (00:17:39) Tailoring solutions for individual needs (00:25:14) Real-world applications of kitchen safety technology (00:35:25) The future of aging in place with technology Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

11. 

    14 Nov 2025

    Innovative Aging Episode 4: Dementia Care Reimagined: Can Difficult Behaviors Be Controlled Without Medication?

    Bill Uniowski, Co-Founder and CEO of Zinnia, brings a fresh, tech-forward lens to dementia care, drawing from personal caregiving experience and clinical partnerships. In this episode, he joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) to explore how personalized, media-based tools may offer nonpharmacological relief for common challenges like agitation and caregiver burnout. Together, they examine what it means to truly meet people with dementia where they are, especially when routines break down and connection feels out of reach. You’ll leave with new ideas to support dignity and engagement through accessible, evidence-based solutions. Learning Objectives Analyze current evidence supporting nonpharmacological, media-based interventions for managing behavioral symptoms in individuals with moderate-to-severe dementia Determine clinical scenarios in which dementia-friendly video content offers the greatest benefit, including for individuals experiencing agitation, anxiety, or difficulty engaging in daily routines Apply personalized intervention strategies in case scenarios with overburdened caregivers and clients whose cognitive deficits affect task sequencing and participation in meaningful activities Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) The rising fear of dementia (00:02:25) Innovative solutions for dementia care (00:04:40) Understanding the caregiver's burden (00:07:00) Personalized approaches to dementia care (00:12:00) Engagement strategies for dementia patients (00:17:50) Nonpharmacological interventions (00:20:41) The role of technology in dementia care (00:24:39) Exploring alternative solutions for caregivers (00:32:12) Understanding frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and caregiving challenges (00:34:20) The role of media in dementia awareness (00:37:30) Humor and real-life stories in caregiving (00:41:17) Personalized approaches in dementia care (00:49:30) Multigenerational connections and overcoming stigma Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

12. 

    15 Oct 2025

    Innovative Aging Episode 3: Dressing With Dignity: Can Adaptive Apparel Promote ADL Success?

    Nicole Cuervo (https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolecuervo/), founder and CEO of Springrose, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/educate/instructors/Carol-Chiang), OTR/L, CAPS, ECHM, CHAMP, to explore how adaptive apparel can make dressing more accessible, dignified, and empowering for your patients. Drawing on her background in human-centered design and deep collaboration with rehab professionals, Nicole shares how innovative clothing solutions are transforming an often-overlooked ADL. She and Carol dig into clinical challenges, emotional impacts, and practical strategies you can use today. Join us as we rethink dressing as more than a task, it's a pathway to independence and identity. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence supporting adaptive apparel as a clinical solution for supporting dressing-related independence and participation in people with physical or cognitive limitations Determine situations in which adaptive apparel provides the most benefit to individuals experiencing dressing challenges due to pain, range-of-motion limitations, tremors, or caregiver reliance Solve patient case scenarios that involve selecting and clinically applying adaptive apparel to address dressing-related performance barriers in ADLs Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) The importance of independent dressing (00:03:15) Innovative solutions in adaptive apparel (00:11:50) Challenges in adaptive clothing (00:17:40) Understanding user needs (00:19:20) Designing for diverse needs (00:24:45) The role of clinicians in adaptive apparel (00:29:00) When adaptive apparel isn't the answer (00:38:00) Navigating financial barriers (00:41:00) Innovative approaches to adaptive clothing (00:43:40) Empowering patients through choice Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

13. 

    15 Sept 2025

    Innovative Aging Episode 2: Toilet Safety: The Missing Link for Social Engagement and Happiness?

    Dan Walkowiak (https://www.medbridge.com/courses/details/toilet-safety-the-missing-link-for-social-engagement-and-happiness-carol-chiang-dan-walkowiak), product and market development manager at Bemis Manufacturing, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang) for a candid conversation about transforming toilet safety from a clinical necessity to a driver of independence and dignity. Together, they explore how innovations like raised toilet seats, color contrast design, and integrated bidet technology can prevent falls, ease caregiver burden, and improve quality of life. You’ll hear real-world stories of patients whose social engagement and happiness were restored by simple bathroom modifications and gain practical ideas you can start using with your own patients today. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence around bathroom safety interventions in reducing falls and improving independence for individuals with mobility challenges or cognitive challenges Determine the situations in which specific toileting and bathroom safety solutions provide the most benefit, considering patient needs, environmental factors, caregiver involvement, aesthetics, and cost Solve patient case scenarios involving toileting challenges by selecting solutions that bridge the gap between clinical safety recommendations and real-life usability in home and facility settings Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:00:05) Introduction to bathroom safety equipment (00:03:15) The importance of bathroom safety (00:06:30) Innovative solutions for bathroom safety (00:11:25) The future of bathroom technology (00:14:57) Addressing affordability in bathroom solutions (00:20:30) Safety issues with traditional toilet seats (00:26:20) The role of education in bathroom safety (00:28:45) Innovative approaches to bathroom safety (00:31:17) Funding and accessibility challenges (00:32:39) Navigating insurance and Medicare issues (00:39:00) Choosing the right equipment for patients (00:43:32) Real-life success stories (00:49:00) Key takeaways for clinicians Innovative Aging is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

14. 

    15 Sept 2025

    Innovative Aging Episode 1: How Do We Have a Proactive Conversation About Grab Bars?

    Becky Wright, CAPS (https://www.medbridge.com/courses/details/how-do-we-have-a-proactive-conversation-about-grab-bars-carol-chiang), division manager at Ponte Giulio USA, joins host Carol Chiang (https://www.medbridge.com/about/instructor/Carol-Chiang), for a lively and practical conversation about bathroom safety and aging in place. Drawing from decades of experience and real-life client stories, Becky and Carol tackle the stigma around grab bars and explain why reframing the conversation matters. Together, they explore how therapists like you can proactively guide clients toward safer home environments—without compromising style or dignity. Tune in for actionable tips and persuasive language you can use in your very next home safety visit. Learning Objectives Analyze the evidence around grab bars in relation to accessibility, safety, and client-centered home modifications Determine the situations in which grab bar solutions support safety, health, and participation in activities of daily living (ADLs) Solve patient case scenarios by integrating clinical reasoning and ethical decision-making to recommend appropriate grab bar solutions in diverse home settings Timestamps (00:00:00) Welcome (00:01:30) Understanding the importance of bathroom safety (00:05:00) Proactive vs. reactive safety measures (00:08:50) Overcoming misconceptions about grab bars (00:13:30) The role of terminology in acceptance (00:20:20) Creating a visit-friendly home (00:23:30) The importance of grab bars in home safety (00:25:08) Design and aesthetics of grab bars (00:36:00) Installation of grab bars (00:41:00) Key takeaways for clinicians This podcast is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away. If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/ (https://www.medbridgeeducation.com/pricing/)

15. 

    15 Aug 2025

    Innovative Aging Trailer

    Innovative Aging Podcast with Carol Chiang coming soon in mid September!

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