Cognitive Impairment and Phones: Can Simplified Devices Prolong Connection?

Innovative Aging: Cognitive Impairment and Phones: Can Simplified Devices Prolong Connection? (Episode 14)

Audio Runtime: 58 Minutes; Learning Assessment Time: 21 Minutes

Join host Carol Chiang, OTR/L, CAPS, ECHM, CHAMP, as she sits down with Robert Felgar, CEO of RAZ Mobility and former telecommunications attorney, to discuss bridging communication barriers for clients with cognitive impairment. Drawing on his extensive experience developing tailored mobile solutions for individuals with dementia, low vision, and tremors, Robert shares how simplified technology can safely extend independence and ease caregiver strain. In this episode, we unpack the cognitive demands of modern smartphones, explore adaptive options across the technology continuum, and highlight actionable remote management strategies to keep your clients connected. You will walk away with a practical framework to help families select and configure the right device before social isolation takes hold.

Learning Outcomes

• Analyze the evidence around cell phone use and mobile technology challenges for clients experiencing cognitive impairment
• Apply practical, evidence-based strategies to actionably address cell phone selection, configuration, and implementation for clients with cognitive impairment
• Solve patient case scenarios involving mobile device selection and remote caregiver management for clients with cognitive impairment

Guest Bio: Robert Felgar is the CEO and founder of RAZ Mobility, a company dedicated to providing unique and disruptive technology to older adults, most notably the RAZ Memory Cell Phone. Prior to founding RAZ Mobility, Mr. Felgar was a telecommunications attorney and the general counsel of two telecommunications companies: Prepaid Wireless Group and, prior to that, Americatel Corporation. Robert received his law degree from The George Washington University Law School and his bachelor of arts from McGill University in Canada.

Disclosure: Our guest today is affiliated with a company that develops technology in the area we’re discussing. While we won’t be endorsing any specific product, listeners should be aware of this connection as part of our commitment to transparency.

This is an audio-only course. Additional materials are available for download within the course. To receive continuing education credit, complete the course and the accompanying quiz.