Home Independence and Safety in Parkinson's: What to Plan for at Each Stage

Occupational therapist and aging-in-place expert Carol Chiang joins us to discuss her new book, Age in Place or Find a New Space. Carol explains why meaningful interactions—not just safety—belong at the center of planning for life with Parkinson's, and how "the choices you make today become the consequences you live with tomorrow."

In this podcast episode, Carol discusses the importance of early-stage steps like decluttering and fall-prevention basics, practical visual cueing for freezing, how to break home updates into manageable pieces, and honest caregiver conversations. Carol also shares how to think about modifying a home versus considering a move, and why planning early protects both independence and connection. A grounded, hopeful conversation about creating a home that supports who you are and how you want to live.

Learn more about Carol and her work, and find her book at:
www.EvolvingHomes.com

Explore the OT-curated home-modification resource she mentioned:
Ask Samie: https://www.asksamie.com/

Sign up for updates on webinars, events, and resources for the Parkinson's community: https://dpf.org/newsletter-signup

Learn more about the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinsons's: https://dpf.org

GUEST BIO

Carol Chiang is an Occupational Therapist and founder of Evolving Homes®, specializing in aging-in-place, age tech, and smart home solutions. With 25 years of experience, she helps individuals and families decide whether to "Age in Place" or "Find a New Space®," and supports them through the home changes required at each stage of Parkinson's.

A Certified Parkinson's Wellness Recovery therapist and former Olympic-caliber athlete, Carol teaches the importance of planning ahead, using exercise as medicine, and building habits that protect long-term independence. She consults with organizations, startups, and universities worldwide, and has contributed to AARP, the Davis Phinney Foundation, the National Kitchen & Bath Association, and international aging conferences.