All Episodes

February 21, 2025 50 mins

Send us a text. We love to hear from our fans.

Summary

In this conversation, Janet Engel interviews Cathy Minter, co-founder and CEO of Wisdom, a smart device designed to support aging in place. 

Cathy shares the inspiration behind Wisdom, which arose from personal experiences with aging parents and the challenges they faced. 

The discussion delves into the technology behind Wisdom, emphasizing its non-wearable fall detection capabilities and the importance of proactive safety measures for older adults. 

Cathy also explains the significance of the name 'Wisdom' and how it reflects the empowerment of older adults through technology. 

The conversation concludes with practical advice on home safety and planning for independence as people age. 

In this conversation, Cathy and Janet discuss the importance of universal design in home remodeling, especially for those over 50. 

They explore how simple design features can enhance safety and accessibility without compromising aesthetics. 

The discussion also highlights the role of smart home technology in improving the quality of life for older adults. 

They emphasize the need for education to change perceptions about aging in place and the importance of women in tech, particularly in addressing the unique challenges faced by older adults.

Takeaways

Kathy and her co-founder created Wisdom to address challenges faced by aging adults.


The technology behind Wisdom includes advanced sensors for fall detection.
Wisdom aims to empower older adults by providing peace of mind.


The system operates without the need for wearables, enhancing usability.


Home safety is crucial for aging in place and can be improved with simple modifications.


The name 'Wisdom' reflects the intelligence of both the technology and the older generation.


Planning ahead is essential for maintaining independence as we age.


Less is more when it comes to technology for seniors.


The importance of a trusted circle for emergency alerts is emphasized.


Proactive measures can significantly reduce the risk of falls in the home.

 Implementing universal design features can enhance safety.


Simple features like grab bars can benefit all ages.


Universal design increases home value and appeal.


Smart home technology can significantly improve safety.


Education is key to changing perceptions about aging.


The market is often reactive rather than proactive.


Innovative design can be both functional and beautiful.


Women in tech bring unique perspectives to problem-solving.


Installation of smart home systems can be quick and easy.


Community engagement is essential for product development.

Sound Bites

"We should create this technology to help."
"It's a smart home system."
"We all deal with ageism."
"Your home gets wiser too."
"Less is more powerful."
"It's terrifying what can happen."
"Making your home safer is key."
"Planning is really key to independence."
"Our website is mywisdom.io."
"I'm happy to take calls and talk to everyone."

Wisdom Website: Smart Home Technology to support aging in place

Support the show

website: https://homedesignsforlife.com/

Email: homedesignsforlife@gmail.com

Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club

Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club

Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.

Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.