Home Designs For Life: Remodeling Ideas To Increase Safety, Function, And Accessibility In The Home. – Details, episodes & analysis

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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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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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Christina and Cindy, co-founders of the Adaptive Equipment and Caregiving Corner, started their YouTube channel in 2015 and turned it into a business in 2020.

Their inspiration for starting the channel was to address frequently asked questions they received as therapists in home health.

They wanted to provide caregivers and patients with videos that could be used as educational tools.

They started by housing the videos on YouTube and eventually developed a platform with subscription videos.

Adaptive equipment has transformed the lives of individuals by providing simple solutions, such as a tubular sliding sheet, that make caregiving tasks easier.

Starting a YouTube channel came with challenges, including building a subscriber base and managing expectations.

Audience engagement is important, and Christina and Cindy engage with their audience through various social media platforms.

They value feedback and use it to improve their content. They have also created a seal of approval for products that meet their criteria of improving functional independence, being worth the cost, and having reliable customer service.

Adaptive Equipment Corner is a YouTube channel and website that provides information and reviews on adaptive equipment for caregivers and older adults.

They work with small companies and give feedback on their products to ensure they meet the needs of their viewers.

They also travel to senior centers to give presentations and allow people to try out the products.

One example of their impact is a video on using crutches on stairs, which helped someone struggling with mobility.

The hosts emphasize the importance of caregivers taking care of themselves and finding support in their caregiving journey.

Takeaways

Starting a YouTube channel can be a valuable tool for providing educational resources to caregivers and patients.

Adaptive equipment can greatly improve the lives of individuals and their ability to age in place.

Building a subscriber base and managing expectations are challenges that come with starting a YouTube channel.

Engaging with the audience and incorporating their feedback is important for creating valuable content.

Creating a seal of approval for products can help guide caregivers and patients in making informed decisions.

Adaptive Equipment Corner provides valuable information and reviews on adaptive equipment for caregivers and older adults.

They work with small companies and give feedback on their products to ensure they meet the needs of their viewers.

They travel to senior centers to give presentations and allow people to try out the products.

Taking care of oneself is crucial for caregivers, and finding support is important in the caregiving journey.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey from YouTube Channel to Business
06:23 The Impact of Adaptive Equipment on Aging in Place
10:43 Challenges and Successes of Starting a YouTube Channel
15:32 Engaging with the Audience and Incorporating Feedback
24:54 Impactful Videos and Game-Changing Products
31:36 Integrating Adaptive Equipment into Care Plans

Website: https://www.aecorner.com

YouTube: https://youtube.com/c

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Janet and Esther discuss their new website, the Aging in Place Directory, which connects homeowners and caregivers with aging in place professionals.

They explain how the idea for the directory came about and the benefits it offers to both homeowners and professionals.

They also discuss the three subscription plans available for professionals and the features included in each plan.

Janet and Esther highlight the importance of networking and collaboration in the aging in place industry and how the directory and its accompanying community platform facilitate this.

They also discuss their marketing strategies for promoting the directory to homeowners and caregivers.

Takeaways

The Aging in Place Directory connects homeowners and caregivers with aging in place professionals.

The directory offers benefits to both homeowners and professionals, including a centralized platform to find and market services.

There are three subscription plans available for professionals, offering different features and levels of support.

The directory also includes a community platform for professionals to network and collaborate.

Marketing strategies for the directory include search engine optimization, content marketing, social media marketing, and collaborations with other organizations.

The directory will be launched on April 8th, with a 60-day free trial for professionals.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Announcement of the Aging in Place Directory
03:31 Creating a Directory for Aging in Place Professionals
09:29 The Benefits of Joining the Aging in Place Directory
14:26 Subscription Plans for Aging in Place Professionals
26:19 Marketing Strategies for the Aging in Place Directory
31:20 Launch Date and Free Trial for the Aging in Place Directory

YouTube Video: https://youtu.be/K34JlZTYY1U

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Jared Chevraux, CEAC the executive vice president of Jtek Solutions Group and owner of Jared Chevraux Consulting, discusses his background and motivation for specializing in home access consulting.

He shares his design philosophy and how he markets to clients without urgent needs.

Jared emphasizes the importance of making accessible design beautiful and introduces the future of accessible design.

He also discusses his collaboration with the VGM Network and the trends in the home access industry.

Jared recommends various products for accessible bathrooms and discusses innovations in smart home technology.

He also touches on the expansion of his company into kitchen design and the recognition he received at KBIS.

Takeaways

Making accessible design beautiful is key to attracting clients without urgent needs.

The home access market is growing and becoming more accepted and understood by the general population.

Smart home technology, such as digital shower valves and voice-activated controls, is a growing trend in the industry.

Best Bath is a recommended product for accessible bathrooms, offering plywood reinforcement and a 30-year warranty.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:00 Starting JTEC Solutions
02:31 Motivation for Home Access Consulting
03:28 Marketing to Clients without Urgent Needs
04:07 Making Accessible Design Beautiful
05:09 Introducing the Future of Accessible Design
06:17 Collaboration with VGM Network
07:48 Design Philosophy and Background
08:12 In-House Designer and Cost
09:35 Industry Trends and Demand for Home Access Solutions
10:47 Collaboration with Other Home Access Companies
11:45 Working with VGM Network
12:08 Product Recommendations for Accessible Bathrooms
13:23 Differentiating Wall Panel Products
14:34 Innovations in Smart Home Technology
16:16 Best Bath Product Features
18:12 Cost of Best Bath Products
19:03 Expansion into Kitchen Design
19:32 Smart Technology in the Kitchen
21:52 Universal Design in Kitchen Redesigns
23:45 Appliance Garages in Small Kitchens
25:30 Recognition at KBIS
28:09 Future of the Home Access Market

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Tom Jameson discusses the Federal Home Loan Bank Grant program and the specific program he created in West Lafayette, Indiana.

The program provides grant dollars to qualified homeowners for home modifications and repairs.

Tom explains the income requirements and how to find member banks in your community.

He also highlights the benefits of CAP certification for performing home modification evaluations and accessing grant funds.

Tom shares his background in construction and the impact of CAP certification on his work.

He discusses the SHARP program and the importance of partnerships and collaboration.

Tom encourages others to explore the grant program and consider replicating his model in their communities.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to the Federal Home Loan Bank Grant Program

02:03
The Affordable Housing Program Initiatives

03:01
Target Audience and Program Specifics

04:25
Senior Homeowners Assistance for Repair Program (SHARP)

06:03
Household Income Requirements

07:49
Finding Member Banks in Your Community

09:35
Costs and Benefits for Homeowners and Banks

11:12
CAP Certification and Home Modification Evaluations

14:44
Tom's Background and Construction Expertise

22:26
The SHARP Program and Partnerships

25:40
Increased Grant Funding and Program Growth

28:35
Reimbursement for Services through the Grant

29:57
Expanding Services and Collaboration Opportunities

33:11
Accessing the Grant Program in Other Communities

38:16
The Importance of Collaboration and Networking

44:02
Taking Advantage of the Grant Program


Contact Information

To find the HUD Income Limits: https://www.huduser.gov/portal/datasets/il.html

Federal Home Loan Banks Main Site: https://fhlbanks.com/

Tom Jameson/SHARP: SHARPassist@mail.com 

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Ilan Tiagai, CEO and co-founder of the Smart Hygiene Company, discusses the inspiration behind creating the first AI bidet on the market.

He explains how spectroscopy is used in the bidet to identify and clean soiled areas.

The bidet's smart features, such as adjusting water temperature and thorough cleaning, set it apart from traditional bidets.

Ilan also highlights the environmental impact of using bidets and the increased popularity of bidets during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He shares the target audience for the bidet and the positive response from consumers. Ilan discusses the future innovations planned for the bidet and the company's successes so far.

Takeaways

The Smart Hygiene Company has created the first AI bidet on the market, using spectroscopy and AI to thoroughly clean soiled areas.

The bidet's smart features, such as adjusting water temperature and thorough cleaning, enhance the user experience compared to traditional bidets.

Using bidets can have a positive environmental impact by reducing the use of toilet paper and conserving water.

Bidets have become more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic due to toilet paper shortages.

The target audience for the bidet includes seniors, people with disabilities, and patients who need help with toileting.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
01:13 Inspiration behind creating the first AI bidet
05:16 Enhancing the user experience with AI
09:38 Smart features that set the bidet apart
14:48 Environmental impact and water conservation
16:26 Bidets becoming more popular during COVID
25:22 Availability and cost of the bidet
27:02 Successes and future innovations
32:06 Importance of addressing toilet hygiene

YouTube video: https://youtu.be/wlqK9V-BJik

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In this conversation, Janet has a conversation with John O'Brien, the CEO of Healthcraft, and Sandy Alexander, OT.  HealthCraft is a company that specializes in fall prevention products.

They discuss the story behind the SuperPole, the importance of fall prevention, and the innovative solutions Healthcraft has developed for bathroom safety.

They also talk about the evolution of Healthcraft products, blending functionality and aesthetics, and the Easy Mount installation solution.

The conversation highlights the SuperPole and its benefits for individuals with mobility issues. The conversation explores the installation process and universal design principles of accessible products.

It then delves into future market trends and the need for aesthetically pleasing solutions.

The benefits of seated surfaces for fall prevention are discussed, including wide and comfortable seating options.

The conversation highlights the importance of back support and energy conservation during bathing. It emphasizes the preventability of falls and the impact of hazards in the home.

The chapter concludes with the idea of making products look good to increase their appeal and adoption.

Takeaways

Accessible products can be installed by any homeowner, regardless of their handy skills.
Universal design principles focus on simplicity, intuitiveness, and low physical effort.

Future market trends in accessibility include a demand for aesthetically pleasing solutions.

Seated surfaces in showers provide a safer bathing experience and conserve energy.

Wide and comfortable seating options are essential for accessibility.

Back support is crucial for comfort and safety during bathing.

Falls are often preventable, and hazards in the home play a significant role.

Making products look good increases their appeal and adoption.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:42 Introduction to Healthcraft
01:32 The Story Behind the SuperPole
04:07 The Importance of Fall Prevention
05:39 Innovative Solutions for Bathroom Safety
10:55 The Evolution of Healthcraft Products
18:05 Blending Functionality and Aesthetics
25:37 Innovative Solutions for Bathroom Storage
30:39 Easy Mount Installation Solution
39:07 The SuperPole and its Benefits
46:29 Installation and Universal Design
47:18 Future Market Trends
49:25 Design Solutions for Accessibility
50:23 Seated Surfaces for Fall Prevention
52:37 Benefits of Seated Surfaces
53:33 Wide and Comfortable Seating
54:25 Back Support and Energy Conservation
55:27 Preventing Falls and UTIs
56:25 Advantages of Wall-Mounted Benches
57:45 Simplifying Installation and Maintenance
58:43 Cost and Value of Seated Surfaces
59:33 The Impact of Falls and Preventability
01:02:17 Misunderstandings and Preventable Falls
01:04:21 Making Products Look Good

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Jill Bjerke, the founder and CEO of Silver Spaces, discusses the Silver Spaces Senior Home Safety Assessment that she created.

The assessment is designed to help aging in place professionals and homeowners make homes safer for older adults. It allows users to pick specific rooms in the home and answer standardized questions about safety features.

The assessment can be used by professionals and laypersons alike, and it provides detailed modification suggestions based on the user's responses.

The assessment is accessible on any device and can be customized for different users. Future developments include virtual assessments and AI integration.

Takeaways

The Silver Spaces Senior Home Safety Assessment is a tool designed to help aging in place professionals and homeowners make homes safer for older adults.

The assessment allows users to pick specific rooms in the home and answer standardized questions about safety features.

It provides detailed modification suggestions based on the user's responses and can be used by professionals and laypersons alike.

Future developments of the assessment include virtual assessments and AI integration.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:03 Creation of Silver Spaces
04:30 Key Features of the Silver Spaces Home Assessment
07:51 User Experience and Feedback
10:57 Assessment for Professionals and Lay Persons
13:05 Designing the Assessment for Different Users
15:46 Complex Evaluations and Modifications
18:28 Considering Health History in the Assessment
20:56 Addressing Conditions that Change Over Time
24:18 Universal Design and Multi-Generational Living
25:46 Duration and Accessibility of the Assessment
27:23 Future Developments of the Silver Spaces Assessment
28:59 Cost of the Assessment
31:00 Recommendations for Healthcare Professionals
34:21 Importance of Supportive Services
37:11 Getting Started with the Silver Spaces Tool
38:19 Conclusion

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In this conversation, Sue Wadden and Emily Kantz from Sherwin-Williams discuss the impact of color on health, safety and wellness.

They explain how different colors influence mood and mental health, and recommend specific colors for creating calming environments.

They also discuss Sherwin-Williams' annual color mix and color forecast, and how it reflects and influences public health and wellness trends.

Additionally, they highlight Sherwin-Williams' products that contribute to health and safety, such as odor-eliminating and air-purifying paints.

Finally, they address the company's marketing efforts to cater to the growing demographic of older adults and their specific needs for aging in place.

The conversation covers topics such as welfare, health, safety, and sustainability in the paint industry.

It also delves into the color forecasting process and the impact of color in our lives.

The guests discuss personal experiences with Sherwin-Williams colors and the possibility of a color forecast specifically for older adults.

They also explore the expansion of the conversation on color and the next phase of the paint industry as GenXers age.

Takeaways

Color has a significant impact on mood and mental health, and specific colors can create calming environments.

Sherwin-Williams' annual color mix and color forecast reflect and influence public health and wellness trends.

Sherwin-Williams offers products that contribute to health and safety, such as odor-eliminating and air-purifying paints.

The company is mindful of the growing demographic of older adults and their specific needs for aging in place. Welfare, health, safety, and sustainability are important considerations in the paint industry.

The color forecasting process involves a workshop where themes and a color of the year are determined.

Personal experiences with Sherwin-Williams colors highlight the impact of color in interior design.

There is potential for a color forecast that takes into account the changing vision of older adults.

Expanding the conversation on color and sharing knowledge is a goal for the future.
Color has a significant impact on our lives and can transform spaces.

As GenXers age, there may be a shift towards hiring professional painters for safety reasons.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Job Roles
04:06 Color and its Impact on Health and Wellness
10:28 Color Mix and Color Forecast
17:23 Influence of Color Forecast on Health and Wellness Trends
25:19 Sherwin-Williams' Products for Health and Safety
35:05 Differentiating Sherwin-Williams' Paint Products
42:08 Microbicidal and Odor-Eliminating Paints
46:00 Marketing to the Aging Population
46:57 Welfare, HSW, and Sustainability
49:15 Color Forecasting Process
51:23 Personal Experience with Sherwin-Williams Colors
52:54 Color Forecast for Older Adults
53:31 Expanding the Conversation on Color
55:15 Impact of Color in Our Lives
56:21 Next Phase: Aging GenXers and Professional Painters

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