CareLab

Falls aren't always caused by poor balance—and the real reasons may surprise you. In this episode of CareLab, occupational therapists Emilia Bourland and Brandy Archie reveal three often-overlooked causes of falls: vision changes, home environment, and multitasking. Learn simple, evidence-based strategies that can reduce fall risk right away, and don't miss Part 2, where they'll uncove...

When temperatures soar, the risks for people living with dementia go far beyond discomfort. In this episode of CareLab, occupational therapists Emilia Bourland and Brandy Archie share practical, evidence-based strategies to prevent heat-related illness, improve hydration, and recognize warning signs before they become emergencies. From simple communication techniques to surprising tips like using...

If you or someone you love has experienced a stroke, this episode is essential listening. Guest Lori Williams shares the powerful story of her husband’s stroke on Christmas Day and the journey they’ve been on since—from missteps in emergency care to navigating long-term neuro rehab, home modifications, disability benefits, and beyond. This conversation is packed with practical insight, powerful re...

In the final episode of this special three-part CareLab series, Chase and John Prieve reveal how personal experience inspired award-winning technology that's transforming communication for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community. Discover Hi There, a captioned video calling app, and Just Talk, a real-time conversation tool designed to make everyday interactions—from family calls to doctor visits an...

What happens when the world is built for hearing people? In Part 2 of this special CareLab series, Chase and John Prieve share eye-opening stories about the everyday barriers faced by Deaf and Hard of Hearing individuals. From frustrating travel experiences to communication breakdowns in places that should be accessible, they reveal why good intentions aren't enough—and why better solutions ar...

What happens when hearing loss turns everyday conversations into daily challenges? In this first installment of a special three-part CareLab series, Chase and John Prieve share the deeply personal experiences that inspired their mission to make communication more accessible for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. From family history and sudden hearing loss to the frustrations of inaccessible tec...

In the gripping conclusion of this three-part series, Chip Wallace reveals how he uncovered a shocking web of financial exploitation after his mother’s death. From missing family heirlooms and suspicious financial transactions to a caregiver with a troubling history, Chip shares the lessons learned from a heartbreaking experience. Discover the warning signs of elder financial abuse, the challenges...

In part two of our special series on financial exploitation, we delve deeper into the shadows of trust and betrayal. Chip Wallace returns to reveal the shocking continuation of his mother's story. Discover how manipulative caregivers and dubious fiduciaries further isolated her, stripping away her rights and finances. As the web of deception tightens, Chip shares pivotal moments and the relent...

Dive into the shadows of trust and betrayal in this gripping episode of CareLab. Discover the chilling tale of a woman with dementia, manipulated by those she trusted most. Join us as we unravel the early warning signs, emotional impacts, and the pursuit of justice by her son, Charles E. Wallace Jr. This is part one of a special series on financial exploitation. Don't miss the twists and turns...

What if the reason you're waking up exhausted has less to do with your mattress and more to do with heat and moisture? In Part 2 of our conversation with sleep science coach and entrepreneur Win Hansen, we explore the critical role thermoregulation plays in sleep quality. Win explains why overheating disrupts restorative sleep, how temperature and moisture affect both caregivers and the people...

What happens when a healthcare professional suddenly finds themselves on the other side of caregiving? In Part 1 of this special series, Emilia Bourland and Brandy Archie sit down with sleep science coach and entrepreneur Win Hansen to explore how caring for his wife during her cancer treatment changed the course of his life and career. Win shares the challenges of balancing caregiving with self-c...

What if you could get a dementia care navigator, 24/7 support, and respite care—for free? This episode uncovers the little-known Medicare GUIDE program that’s quietly changing the future of dementia care. Learn who qualifies, how to enroll, and why this shift in healthcare could make all the difference for your family. Find out more about PocketRN and getting enrolled in the GUIDE program at www....

What if the most powerful “treatment” for dementia isn’t medical at all? In this episode of CareLab, Ju Tu shares how engagement, dignity, and thoughtful design can ease anxiety, spark connection, and restore confidence for both caregivers and their loved ones. This conversation will change the way you think about care. Find more from Ju Tu at www.aegeliss.com Find Care Equipment solutions at http...

In this heartfelt episode of CareLab, author and yogi Kym Coco shares her journey through caregiving, loss, and rediscovery. Kym discusses the profound impact of intentional living and the three C's—Cut, Connect, Create—that guided her and her late husband, Steve, through challenging times. From navigating Steve's illness to finding purpose in creativity, Kym's story highlights resilie...

How important is physical strength when it comes to caregiving—and living well as we age? In this episode, physical therapist Don DeQuine shares his journey and a fresh perspective on why strength training is essential for both caregivers and older adults. We dive into practical, approachable strategies—including the 12 key movements that support everyday function—while also unpacking the differen...

In this episode of CareLab, we sit down with Jennifer Lee, a financial advisor with nearly 30 years of experience, to unpack the complex financial realities caregivers face—especially those in the sandwich generation. Jennifer shares practical, real-world strategies to help you balance caring for aging parents while protecting your own financial future. From navigating long-term care insurance to...

Caregiving isn’t just about showing up—it’s about managing a complex web of medical, legal, and financial decisions, often without a roadmap. From navigating tough family conversations to preparing legal documents and building a long-term care strategy, this conversation highlights what it really takes to stay ahead of a crisis. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the “everything” of caregiving, th...

In this CareLab Fan Favorite, our guest Allyson Schrier shares her profound journey as a caregiver for her husband diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia. She discusses the emotional complexities of caregiving, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and the importance of finding appropriate care for dementia patients. Through her experiences, Allison highlights the need for better understan...

In this powerful episode of CareLab, Brandy and Emilia sit down with Harry S. Campbell—a former executive who found himself navigating an unexpected role: caregiver to his wife after her malignant brain tumor diagnosis. What unfolds is a deeply human story of love, resilience, and redefining leadership when the stakes are personal. Harry shares the raw realities of caregiving—the emotional weight,...

Recovery isn’t just physical—it’s mental. We dive into the biggest mindset shifts that can make or break your rehab journey, plus practical advice to help you stay motivated, find your purpose, and focus on progress over perfection. Find Care Equipment solutions at https://www.asksamie.com/ Find Caregiver Training at https://www.higherstandardscaregivertraining.com/ https://www.carelabpodcast.com/...

Caregiving isn’t experienced the same way by everyone. In this Hot Take, we explore how men and women often navigate caregiving differently. A quick look at the unseen dynamics shaping the caregiver experience—and why understanding them matters to everybody.

Your home might be quietly impacting your health and independence more than you realize. Occupational therapist Carly Weiner explains how simple, often overlooked changes—like adding a handrail or improving layout—can reduce caregiver stress and restore independence. Through personal stories, including how a stairlift transformed her grandmother’s life, she highlights the powerful role of environm...

According to recent research, 41% of people report they don’t have a friend or neighbor they can call in a moment of need. In this short episode, we unpack what that really means—and why it matters more than ever. This is a quick but powerful look at the growing gap in our social safety nets—and what we can start to do about it.

Losing the car keys can feel like losing a piece of yourself. For many people, driving isn’t just transportation—it’s independence, identity, and connection to the world. But after a stroke, a fall, vision changes, or early dementia, families are often left asking a difficult question: Is it still safe to drive? In this special 100th episode of CareLab, we’re joined by occupational therapist and d...

Low vision isn’t just about blurry eyesight—it can affect balance, safety, independence, and everyday interactions. In this episode of CareLab, we break down what low vision actually means, why it’s more common than most people realize, and how it can quietly impact daily life. We also share practical tips, simple home modifications, and surprising tech tools that can help people stay independent...