Carol Chiang is a globally recognized aging-in-place expert, occupational therapist, Parkinson's advocate, and host of a MedBridge podcast of Innovative Aging. She is the founder of Evolving Homes(R) and creator of Age in Place or Find a New Space(R). Known for her signature MacGyver-style mindset, Carol brings over 25 years of experience, blending practical, affordable solutions to help families confidently navigate aging. She is passionate about helping people plan ahead-not just to make purposeful, values-driven decisions, but to make aging more cost-efficient and financially sustainable. Carol is also committed to shifting mindsets and driving solutions for the global aging crisis through her work in caregiving robotics and smart home technology. Her expertise is trusted by global leaders such as the MIT AgeLab, Toyota Research Institute, AARP, and UBS.
""I wish I had found Carol Chiang's Age in Place or Find a New Space five years ago. This book managed to do something my family and I couldn't: it reduced the anxiety and tension around deciding our parents' future living situation. It's written with such compassion and clarity that it feels like the author is sitting right there with you, mediating the conversation. What stands out is the deep understanding of the emotional toll this decision takes. The author doesn't just discuss finances and logistics; she provides frameworks for open, non-confrontational communication with aging parents or between spouses. The chapters on minimizing regret and focusing on quality of life (rather than just quantity of rooms) were profound. Whether you ultimately choose to remodel the current home or seek out a residential community, the book ensures you make the decision proactively, not reactively. If you're stressed about this topic, read this book. It's truly a lifeline."" ""I really appreciate how Carol has given a voice to topics so many people wonder about but often avoid discussing. From early planning and budgeting to creating barrier-free spaces that still feel like home, she provides practical, thoughtful guidance. This book is an excellent resource not only for aging adults but also for their children who want to support them. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to age well on their own terms. This book is a MUST-READ for anyone facing the questions of how and where we live as we age. It's comprehensive, practical, compassionate, and actionable. Drawing on her expertise as an occupational therapist, Carol Chiang provides clear checklists, decision-making tools, and case studies that make these daunting choices feel more manageable. She balances everyday modifications with the latest innovations, while writing with warmth and empathy. I appreciated the chapter on aging in place with Parkinson's, which shows her deep understanding of the unique challenges families face. This book is both honest and hopeful, and it is a valuable resource for individuals, families, and professionals alike."" ""Age in Place or Find a New Space is an excellent resource, packed with helpful information for homeowners (of all ages), adult children concerned about their parents, and industry professionals. Seriously, everyone will learn something reading this book. It is a very readable book - the chapters are short, well-organized, and easy to understand. I really like the ""Key Takeaways"" at the end of every chapter, which summarize the chapter and give a list of action points. The real-life tips, advice, and insights from an Occupational Therapist who knows what she is talking about will help anyone who wants to live independently in their home forever, as well as people who work with clients who wish to Age In Place. There is an excellent chapter specifically for folks living with Parkinson's Disease that addresses strategies to help them age in place in their own home. My boss purchased copies of this book for everyone in our office. Our company manufactures bathroom safety products, which are frequently used to make bathrooms safer for everyone in the family. Aging in Place is a topic that I am very familiar with - this is a great resource for homeowners and contractors.""