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08/24/2026

Looking back at CareLab🎧

Some of the most memorable CareLab conversations are the ones that leave you thinking long after the episode ends. Emilia Bourland highlights episodes featuring Lisa Kendall for her wisdom, compassion, and incredible ability to communicate complex topics—and conversations with gastroenterologist Dr. Lawrence Schiller for their fascinating, educational deep dive into the gut.

As Emilia’s final CareLab episode, this conversation is also a meaningful look back at some of the moments and guests that made the podcast so special. There’s a lot to discover in the CareLab archives, and these are definitely worth a listen!

🎧 Follow the CareLab Podcast for more expert-backed guidance on caregiving, aging, serious illness, and making empowered healthcare decisions.

08/08/2026

Getting Older Doesn't Mean Giving Up đź’™

One of the biggest myths about aging is that declining function is simply something to accept. While aging brings changes, many challenges with mobility, daily activities, and independence can be addressed with the right interventions.

OT Emilia Bourland reminds us that there are evidence-based solutions available—and occupational therapists play a key role in helping clients maintain function, safety, and quality of life. Encouraging clients to seek support early can make all the difference.

Let's continue advocating for proactive care instead of accepting decline as inevitable.

🎧 Follow the CareLab Podcast for more expert-backed guidance on caregiving, aging, serious illness, and making empowered healthcare decisions.

08/06/2026

Medication Mistakes Are a Major Warning Sign đź’Š

Medication errors are one of the most common—and preventable—reasons older adults end up in the hospital. Missed doses, double doses, or confusion with medication routines often happen quietly, making them easy to overlook.

OT Emilia Bourland highlights that many people either don't realize they're making medication mistakes or feel embarrassed to ask for help. Recognizing these warning signs early creates an opportunity to assess routines, identify barriers, and implement strategies that support safer medication management and greater independence.

Small interventions can have a big impact on health, safety, and quality of life.

🎧 Follow the CareLab Podcast for more expert-backed guidance on caregiving, aging, serious illness, and making empowered healthcare decisions.

08/03/2026

Does Your Mobility Equipment Actually Fit You? 🚶‍♀️

A walker, cane, or wheelchair isn't "one size fits all." Even if it's recommended by a healthcare professional or covered by insurance, the wrong size or type of equipment can make moving around harder—and even increase the risk of falls.

In this clip, OT Emilia Bourland shares a real-life example of a petite adult who received a standard walker that simply didn't fit. A properly fitted pediatric walker made all the difference.

The best mobility equipment is the one that matches your body, your abilities, and your daily needs. Before bringing new equipment home, make sure it truly fits the person—not just the prescription.

🎧 Follow the CareLab Podcast for more expert-backed guidance on caregiving, aging, serious illness, and making empowered healthcare decisions.

07/30/2026

A Fit Upgrade is the Right Upgrade 🚶‍♂️

Rollators are popular for a reason—they're stylish, easy to maneuver, and come with helpful features like seats and storage baskets. But "more features" doesn't always mean "safer."

In this clip, OT Brandy Archie explains why the best mobility device depends on your balance, strength, and daily environment. For some people, a two-wheeled walker offers better stability than a four-wheeled rollator. Others may need a wider walker that fits their body—or a device that can still fit through narrow bathroom doors.

The right mobility aid isn't the newest or nicest-looking option—it's the one that fits your body, your abilities, and your home.

🎧 Follow the CareLab Podcast for more expert-backed guidance on caregiving, aging, serious illness, and making empowered healthcare decisions.

07/27/2026

The Conversation That Goes Beyond Healthcare Directives ❤️📞

"If this were your last phone call, who would you call—and what would you want them to know?"
Occupational therapists help people prepare for life's biggest transitions, yet conversations about legacy and future planning can feel uncomfortable. Reframing advance care planning through the lens of love, purpose, and meaningful occupation can make these discussions more approachable for clients and families.

Encourage your clients to start somewhere—whether it's a voice memo, a handwritten note, or a short video. It doesn't have to be perfect. What matters most is preserving the values, wisdom, and practical guidance that only they can share.

🎧 Follow the CareLab Podcast for more expert-backed guidance on caregiving, aging, serious illness, and making empowered healthcare decisions.

07/16/2026

"I Haven't Been Hurt Yet." That's the Risk Your Patients Don't See. ⚠️

It's easy for patients to dismiss a fall when they walk away without an injury—but as clinicians, we know better. Every fall is a warning sign, not just bad luck.
Frame it for them like a string of minor car accidents. They may walk away unscathed the first few times, but the odds catch up eventually. Falls work the same way.

When a patient reports they've started falling, the question worth asking isn't just "were you hurt?"—it's whether they're willing to make a small change now to avoid a life-changing injury later. Simple adjustments to the home, daily routines, or footwear can make the difference between continued independence and a preventable crisis.

🎧 Follow the CareLab Podcast for more expert-backed guidance on caregiving, aging, serious illness, and empowering better healthcare decisions.

07/13/2026

🌡️ Heat can be especially dangerous for people with dementia.

Dementia often makes it harder to recognize, communicate, or respond to symptoms of heat-related illness.

If your clients also have a heart condition, Parkinson's disease, MS, or another condition that affects body temperature, pay close attention to signs like increased thirst, swelling, shortness of breath, or anything that seems "off."

When temperatures rise, staying alert can make all the difference.

07/09/2026

❤️ A simple red cup could help someone with dementia stay hydrated.

Color matters more than you might think.

A red cup stands out, making it easier for someone with dementia to notice their drink. Research suggests this simple change may help increase fluid intake by up to 30%.

With summer heat and dehydration risks on the rise, small caregiving strategies like this can make a big difference to share with clients.

🎧 Share the CareLab Podcast for more OT-backed guidance on caregiving, aging with your clients.

07/03/2026

Here's Why Captions Matter—Even with Hearing Aids 🦻💬

Many people assume hearing aids restore hearing to normal—but that's not how they work. In this clip, John Prieve explains that hearing aids amplify sound, but they don't make every word clear. Conversations, meetings, and everyday interactions can still be difficult to follow.

That's why real-time captions are so valuable. Whether you're watching a movie, joining a Zoom call, or talking with loved ones, captions provide the clarity that hearing aids alone often can't.

Grab early access to Just Talk Live Chat once it's released by being signed up for free at OTConnected.com

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