Innovative Aging

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Medbridge Podcasts
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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.

  1. Jul 15

    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, an internationally recognized expert in gerontology and director of the University of Pittsburgh Healthy Home Laboratory, joins host 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 placeApply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address aging in place through person-environment-occupation (PEO) modifications and smart-home technologySolve 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/

  2. Jun 15

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

    Join host 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 diseaseDetermine 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 participationSolve patient case scenarios involving action tremors and associated secondary risks, such as social isolation, by integrating conservative stabilization tools into a multisystem continuum of careTimestamps (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/

  3. May 15

    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 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 repositioningDetermine the situations in which a mobility-enhancing garment and sheet set provides the most benefit for clients and caregiversSolve patient case scenarios involving impaired bed mobility by applying friction-reducing systems that support safe movement and reduce caregiver burdenTimestamps (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/

  4. Apr 15

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

    Tricia Norton, cofounder of Discover Live, joins host 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 limitationsDetermine 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 interventionsSolve 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 satisfactionTimestamps (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 cliniciansInnovative 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/

  5. Mar 13

    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 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 supportDetermine the situations in which simple, portable, and privacy-respecting assistive technologies provide the most benefit for individuals at risk of fallsSolve patient case scenarios involving fall risk reduction by applying human-centered, behavior-conserving interventions that increase environmental control and reduce caregiver burdenTimestamps (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 practitionersInnovative 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/

  6. Feb 13

    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, 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-beingDetermine the situations in which modesty-preserving bathing aids and structured routines provide the most benefit for maintaining dignity, safety, and ADL engagementSolve patient case scenarios involving barriers to bathing due to cognitive decline, trauma history, or sensory sensitivities using adaptive equipment and evidence-informed strategiesTimestamps (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 cliniciansInnovative 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/

  7. Jan 15

    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 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 outcomesDetermine the clinical situations in which measuring balance and fall risk provides the greatest benefitSolve patient case scenarios involving emerging fall risk, hidden deficits, and fluctuating balanceTimestamps (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/

  8. 12/15/2025

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

    Akshita Iyer, CEO of Ome, joins host ⁠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 placeDetermine the situations in which smart kitchen technology provides the most benefit for reducing caregiver burden and supporting older adults’ safety during meal preparationSolve patient case scenarios involving cognitive, motor, or sensory challenges that increase kitchen safety risks in older adultsTimestamps (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 technologyInnovative 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/

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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.

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