Accessible Homes with Realtor Susan Janzen

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Episode Summary:

In this informative episode of ‘Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities’, I sit down with resilience coach, accessibility advocate, and realtor Susan Janzen. Fun fact about Susan – she is the lead singer of the Trocadero Orchestra and an accomplished recording artist. Together, we explore the importance of accessible home design, community support, and sustainable living solutions for families raising children and caring for adults with disabilities.

 

Susan shares how she came to be in the special needs world. Susan introduces us to inspiring professionals she collaborates with in her realtor role, like an Edmonton architect passionate about "visitability" and a builder creating fully accessible garage suites.

Your host shares the story behind her daughter’s Forever Home — a beautifully accessible bungalow that required almost no modification. We dive into practical strategies for home design, including ramps, porch lifts, and wheelchair-friendly bathrooms.

We also touch on:

 

* The challenges of aging in place

* Why so many older homes are ill-equipped for accessibility

* The emotional impact of being unable to visit loved ones due to physical barriers

* How thoughtful design can change lives

 

Susan’s passion for building community shines as she shares her vision of a supportive space for caregivers and families of individuals with adaptive needs. From her daughter’s consulting group to potential retreats and virtual coffee chats, Susan is committed to helping families feel seen, supported, and empowered.

 

Key Takeaways:

* Accessibility begins at the entrance — and every detail matters

* Community collaboration is essential to long-term solutions

* Self-care is not optional: it’s vital for caregivers

* You are not alone — and there is a growing network ready to help

 

Connect with Susan:

 

Website: [www.suejanzen.ca](http://www.suejanzen.ca)

LinkedIn: [Susan Janzen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-janzen)

Facebook: [Susan Whalen Janzen](https://www.facebook.com/susanwhalenjanzen)

Podcast: Living and Loving Each Day: Bridging Barriers (Available on Spotify)

Janzen Consulting Group: [www.janzenconsultinggroup.com](http://www.janzenconsultinggroup.com)

 

Final Words of Encouragement:

 

“You are not alone. There’s no judgment here — just support, practical tips, and a community that gets it.”

 

Keep building your child’s future

 

Live with Intention - Embrace the Journey.

 

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review! It helps other families like yours find support and guidance. Please help spread the word!

 

Connect with me:  

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Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

 

 

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/