7 Innovations In Senior Care

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ClipDifferent, GMP

For more information about the author, click to view their website: ClipDifferent

Posted on

Aug 28, 2024

Book/Edition

Minnesota - Twin Cities Metro Area

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Elevating Compassion Care

Aging with grace and vigor is challenging. Being a caregiver for an aging loved one maybe even more challenging. Here are some innovations to help those you love are able to care for themselves and lengthen their independence.

The Cassia Learning Lab director, Kate Ingalls-Maloney, suggests listing your concerns and then deciding, with some help, which technologies fit those situations. For example, is there a concern about leaving the oven or a burner on? Perhaps there’s a worry about falling in the shower. On occasion, are daily medications forgotten? Be very honest with yourself and your family about what causes hesitation or concern. Then make your list.

The top two reasons people move from their homes are medication errors and falls. Insurance companies may be more likely to cover home modifications and medication management devices that are designed to prevent these two situations. Waivers and private pay are other ways to obtain home adaptations or devices, and some vendors offer a “try before you buy” policy.

Innovations to support seniors’ independence and peace of mind for their caregivers.

Medication management systems There are many different kinds of medication reminders and dispensing systems: From a simple flip-top dispenser to a lockable electronic dispenser that can give alerts to both the person taking the meds and to his/her remote caregiver.

Fall prevention innovations Easy to install lighting, with or without motion detection, can be affordable and also very effective. The adhesive-backed LED motion lights can easily mark a trail to the bathroom at night and provide a safe path. Other strategically placed night lights or touch lamps can also help to avoid falls.

Grab bars systems In the bathroom, grab bars can be installed according to the user’s mobility needs. Newer models incorporate towel bars and toilet paper dispensers. Note: It’s important to consult your physical therapist when installing grab bars. Non-skid flooring is another great way to help prevent bathroom falls.

Wearable pendants or watches There is a variety of these on the market. They can detect falls automatically or be triggered to summon help if a fall occurs. In addition, there is now a wearable (but not noticeable) tracking device that inserts into a shoe or boot so that someone who tends to wander can be located using GPS technology.

Safety in the kitchen There is no need to fear to leave the oven on if you have an automatic appliance shut-off sensor system. They can be installed in both electric and gas ranges.

“My mother is 93 and has very arthritic hands. I’ve been clipping her nails for her. (I bought her a ClipDifferent Pro) and it will allow her to be independent when it comes to doing her nails.” – Nancy

Fingernail care For self-care, the ClipDifferent Pro automatic fingernail clipper and Lil Nipper automatic fingernail clipper provides a way to safely and independently clip fingernails with no risk of harm or mess. Shop for Lil Nipper or ClipDifferent Pro here.

Home voice activation systems Whole-home voice activation systems like Amazon’s Alexa or Google home, when installed correctly, can be very helpful for controlling thermostats, lighting, doorbells, TV, or calls for help.

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Understanding ADLs and IADLs: Keys to Pennsylvanias Medicaid HCBS Programs

Pennsylvania offers Medicaid waiver programs under the Community HealthChoices (CHC) umbrella and the Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver (often referred to as the PA Council on Aging Waiver). These programs help older adults and individuals with physical disabilities remain in their homes or community settings instead of entering nursing facilities. CHC and the PDA Waiver provide long-term services and supports (LTSS) based on assessed functional needs, emphasizing assistance with ADLs and IADLs. Covered services may include personal care assistance, adult day services, home-delivered meals, transportation, home modifications, assistive technology, and respite care for family caregivers. In addition, Pennsylvanias CHC Waiver offers Participant-Directed Services that allow participants to hire and manage their own caregivers, including family members. To qualify, applicants must be Medicaid-eligible, at least 60 years old (for PDA Waiver) or 21+ (for CHC), and require a nursing facility level of care as determined through a standardized functional assessment of ADLs/IADLs. In this article, we explain what Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are and how needing help with these tasks is central to qualifying for Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers like CHC and the PDA Waiver.What Are ADLs (Activities of Daily Living)?Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) are fundamental self-care tasks that a person must perform daily to maintain independence. Difficulty with ADLs often signals a need for supportive services. Core ADLs include: Mobility (Ambulating/Transferring): Safely walking, getting up from a chair, or transferring from a bed to a wheelchair. Dressing: Selecting and putting on appropriate clothing (including handling fasteners) without assistance. Eating: Feeding oneselfusing utensils to get food from a plate to the mouth and consuming it. Personal Hygiene: Bathing or showering and performing grooming activities like shaving, brushing teeth, and combing hair on ones own. Toileting (Continence): Independently using the toiletgetting to the toilet, transferring on and off, and cleaning oneself afterward. When someone can no longer perform several ADLs without help, it indicates that ongoing care or support is likely needed.What Are IADLs (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living)?Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) are more complex tasks that allow a person to live independently in the community. While not necessarily performed daily, they are essential for managing ones household and life. Key IADLs include: Shopping for Essentials: The ability to shop for groceries, pick up prescriptions, or purchase clothing and other necessities. Meal Preparation: Planning and cooking mealsgathering ingredients and safely using kitchen appliances. Housekeeping: Keeping the home clean and livable tasks like cleaning, laundry, and taking out the trash. Money Management: Handling finances, such as paying bills on time, managing bank accounts, and budgeting. Transportation: Getting around or arranging transportationdriving oneself or using public transit or rides to run errands and attend appointments. Medication Management: Managing and taking medications properly remembering to take the correct medicines at scheduled times and refilling prescriptions. Communication: Using the phone or computer to communicatelooking up phone numbers, making calls, sending emails, and staying in touch with others. Trouble with IADLs is often one of the first signs that someone needs more support, even if basic ADLs are unaffected.Why ADLs and IADLs Matter for Medicaid Waiver EligibilityIn Pennsylvania, needing help with ADLs and IADLs is a central eligibility criterion for the CHC and PDA Waiver programs. These waivers serve individuals who would otherwise qualify for nursing facility care but prefer to remain in their own homes or community settings. Eligibility is determined through both financial and functional assessments. The functional assessment evaluates whether an individual requires hands-on assistance with ADLs and/or significant help with IADLs, thereby meeting a nursing facility level of care. Pennsylvania uses standardized toolsoften the Pennsylvania LongTerm Care Assessment System (PaLTAS) or the Minimum Data SetHome Care (MDSHC)to score independence in ADLs and IADLs.During the functional evaluation, an assessor reviews abilities such as transferring from bed to chair, walking safely, eating, toileting, meal preparation, housekeeping, medication management, and managing money. Cognitive issuessuch as memory problems due to dementiaare also considered since they impact daily functioning. If an individual cannot perform multiple ADLs without assistance or has significant deficits in IADLs, they are likely to meet the level-of-care requirement and become eligible for waiver services.Community HealthChoices (CHC) WaiverCommunity HealthChoices (CHC) is Pennsylvanias comprehensive HCBS waiver program for individuals aged 21 and older who require a nursing facility level of care. Administered by the Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL), CHC is a managed care program that combines physical health, long-term services and supports, and pharmacy benefits under a single plan (with behavioral health carved out). To qualify for CHC: Be age 21 or older. Meet Medicaid financial eligibility guidelines. Require a nursing facility level of care (confirmed through functional assessment). Live in a setting that meets HCBS requirements (e.g., home, apartment, assisted living). Be a Pennsylvania resident. Once enrolled, participants receive a comprehensive package of services tailored to their needs. Covered services may include personal assistance, home-delivered meals, adult day services, behavioral support, professional nursing, home modifications, assistive technology, transportation, and respite care. CHC also offers Participant-Directed Services, allowing participants to recruit, hire, train, and supervise their own caregiversoften family membersto assist with ADLs (bathing, dressing, toileting) and IADLs (meal preparation, medication reminders).PDA Waiver (Council on Aging Waiver)The Pennsylvania Department of Aging (PDA) Waiver, also called the Council on Aging Waiver, serves seniors aged 60 and over who require nursing facility level of care but choose to remain at home or in other community-based settings like domiciliary care homes. To qualify: Be age 60 or older. Meet Medicaid financial eligibility requirements. Be assessed as requiring nursing facility level of care (through the functional assessment). Live in a qualifying community setting. Covered services under the PDA Waiver may include personal care assistance, home-delivered meals, homemaker services, personal emergency response systems, respite care, adult day services, minor home modifications, and transportation. Like CHC, the PDA Waiver emphasizes managing ADL and IADL needs to keep participants safely in their homes.Participant-Directed ServicesBoth CHC and the PDA Waiver offer Participant-Directed Services, which empower participants to choose and manage their own caregivers, including family members, friends, or neighbors. Under this model, participants develop a service plan with guidance from a care coordinator, set schedules, and handle payroll tasks. This flexibility helps ensure that personal care and IADL support align with participants preferences and routines.Signs That Your Loved One May QualifyBelow are practical indicators that someone may be eligible for Pennsylvanias CHC or PDA Waiver due to difficulty with ADLs and IADLs: Trouble with Personal Care: Skipping showers, unkempt hair, or wearing dirty clothes may indicate difficulties with bathing and dressing (ADLs). Malnutrition or Weight Loss: An empty fridge or significant weight loss suggests issues with meal prep or feeding oneself (ADLs/IADLs). Mobility Decline and Falls: Struggling to walk without assistance, needing help to stand, or experiencing frequent falls signals reduced mobility (ADL: transferring/ambulating). Medication Errors and Memory Problems: Missing doses, mixing up pills, or forgetting appointments point to challenges with medication management and scheduling (IADLs). Household Neglect: Piles of mail, unpaid bills, or a cluttered home reflect trouble with housekeeping and money management (IADLs). A combination of needing help with several ADLslike bathing and toiletingand difficulties with IADLssuch as meal prep and housekeepingstrongly indicates a nursing facility level of care. Document these challenges for the functional assessment to demonstrate eligibility.Were Here to Help: Next Steps and Contact InformationNavigating Pennsylvanias Medicaid waiver programs can be complex, but you dont have to go it alone. At Passion to Care, we specialize in guiding Pennsylvania families through the CHC and PDA Waiver application processesfrom the initial functional assessment of ADLs and IADLs to completing paperwork and coordinating services once approved. If you notice your loved one struggling with daily tasks or if a professional has recommended nursing facility care, it may be time to explore CHC or the PDA Waiver. Our compassionate, family-first team ensures your loved ones needs are met with dignity and respect. Call us or contact us today to learn how to get started with Pennsylvanias Medicaid waivers for home and community-based services.

How Meal Preparation Can Help Seniors Live Healthier, Happier Lives

As we grow older, many daily activities that were once simple can become more difficult, including preparing healthy meals. For seniors, proper nutrition is essential to maintain energy, supporting the immune system, managing chronic conditions, and staying independent. Thats why meal preparation isnt just a convenience, its a lifeline.Key Benefits of Meal Preparation for Seniors1. Ensures Balanced, Nutritious MealsHaving meals prepared in advance ensures that seniors are eating regularly and get the essential nutrients their bodies need. It prevents reliance on unhealthy processed foods or skipping meals altogether.2. Supports Chronic Condition ManagementMany seniors live with conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease. Proper meal planning allows for dietary restrictions to be met, helping control symptoms and reduce complications.3. Reduces the Risk of MalnutritionMalnutrition is a silent threat among older adults, especially those living alone. Meal preparation helps safeguard against this by promoting consistent, nourishing eating habits.4. Promotes Independence and DignitySeniors who struggle with cooking may feel frustrated or dependent. Having meals planned and readywhether through caregiver support or meal delivery servicesallows them to eat well without feeling like a burden.5. Encourages Social EngagementWhen meal prep includes shared cooking or mealtimes, it creates opportunities for connection. Eating with a companion improves mood, reduces loneliness, and often encourages better eating habits.6. Saves Energy and Prevents AccidentsShopping, standing at the stove, lifting pots, or cutting ingredients can be physically taxing and even dangerous. Meal preparation helps minimize fatigue and reduces the risk of falls or burns in the kitchen. Meal Preparation OptionsThere are several ways to incorporate meal prep into a seniors routine: Family or caregiver assistance for shopping, cooking, and portioning meals Meal delivery services that offer senior-friendly, diet-conscious options Community programs such as Meals on Wheels Group cooking sessions at senior centers that combine nutrition with social interaction Freezer meal prepping once a week or month to ensure ready-made meals are always available Meal preparation is about more than just food, its about health, safety, and quality of life. For seniors, having access to nutritious, well-planned meals means more energy, better health, fewer hospital visits, and the ability to stay independent longer.

Managing Parkinson's Symptoms at Home

Managing Parkinsons Symptoms at HomeThis article is part of The Parkinsons Care Compass, an educational series from At Your Home Caregiving of Texas. Managing Parkinsons symptoms at home takes preparation, compassion, and the right support and we are honored to guide families every step of the way.Managing Parkinsons disease at home requires a careful balance of patience, knowledge, and proactive strategies. Parkinsons affects not only mobility but also speech, mood, memory, and overall daily living activities. As symptoms progress, the home environment and caregiving approach must evolve to meet new challenges and ensure that the individuals dignity, comfort, and independence are preserved.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas specializes in providing customized home caregiving solutions that empower families to manage Parkinsons symptoms effectively while preserving the quality of life for their loved ones.The Importance of a Symptom Management PlanParkinsons symptoms are highly individual no two people experience the disease in exactly the same way. Creating a personalized symptom management plan is essential to addressing the patients physical, cognitive, and emotional needs.A well-rounded plan typically addresses: Mobility and fall prevention Medication management Cognitive and emotional changes Speech and swallowing difficulties Nutrition and hydration Daily routines and activities for mental and physical engagement At Your Home Caregiving of Texas helps families design care plans that respond to their loved ones unique symptoms, preferences, and goals.Mobility Challenges and Fall PreventionMobility issues are among the most recognizable symptoms of Parkinsons disease. Slowed movements (bradykinesia), stiffness, and balance problems increase the risk of falls and injuries.Strategies for Safer Mobility: Home Modifications: Remove trip hazards (like loose rugs), install grab bars in bathrooms, and ensure adequate lighting throughout the home. Use of Assistive Devices: Canes, walkers, and specially designed furniture can aid in safe movement. Clear Walking Paths: Maintain wide, unobstructed paths through frequently used areas like bedrooms, bathrooms, and kitchens. Encouraging Movement Techniques: Techniques like "freezing" drills and cueing strategies (using rhythmic music or counting steps) can help when patients feel stuck or rigid. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas caregivers are trained in fall prevention and can assist clients safely with standing, walking, and transferring from beds or chairs.Medication Management at HomeStrict adherence to medication schedules is critical in Parkinsons care. Medications like levodopa/carbidopa must be taken precisely to control motor symptoms and prevent sudden worsening.Medication Management Tips: Use pill organizers clearly labelled with times of day. Set alarms or use medication reminder apps. Keep a written medication schedule visible for caregivers and family members. Monitor for side effects like dizziness, hallucinations, or sudden involuntary movements (dyskinesias). Our professional caregivers ensure that medication regimens are followed accurately, reducing the risk of complications and hospitalizations.Addressing Cognitive and Emotional ChangesCognitive changes such as memory loss, slowed thinking, and difficulty concentrating are common in Parkinsons, especially as the disease progresses. Emotional changes, including depression and anxiety, may also develop.Support Strategies: Cognitive Engagement: Activities like puzzles, reading, and conversation help keep the mind active. Routine and Structure: A consistent daily routine minimizes confusion and frustration. Patience and Understanding: Allow extra time for decision-making and avoid rushing tasks. Mental Health Support: Professional counselling and medication management can help address depression and anxiety. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas, we prioritize emotional support alongside physical care, creating a nurturing environment for both the patient and their family.Managing Speech and Swallowing DifficultiesSpeech difficulties (dysarthria) and swallowing problems (dysphagia) are common but manageable aspects of Parkinsons.Tips for Speech Challenges: Encourage slow, deliberate speech. Use voice exercises, sometimes under the guidance of a speech therapist. Practice reading aloud or singing to strengthen vocal muscles. Tips for Swallowing Challenges: Consult a speech-language pathologist for swallowing assessments. Offer smaller, more frequent meals. Use thickened liquids if needed to prevent choking. Monitor for signs of aspiration, such as coughing during meals. Our caregivers are trained to notice changes in speech and swallowing and can assist with appropriate interventions to maintain safety and nutrition.Nutrition, Hydration, and ExerciseProper nutrition and hydration are vital for maintaining strength, energy, and medication effectiveness. Constipation, a common non-motor symptom of Parkinsons, can often be alleviated through diet.Key Nutrition Strategies: Focus on fiber-rich foods (vegetables, fruits, whole grains). Maintain hydration offer water throughout the day. Time protein intake carefully, as large amounts of protein can interfere with medication absorption (consult with a physician or dietitian). Incorporate antioxidant-rich foods to support brain health. The Role of ExerciseExercise is one of the most powerful non-medication tools for managing Parkinsons symptoms. Regular movement improves: Balance and gait Flexibility and strength Mood and cognitive function Simple exercises like walking, gentle stretching, yoga, and chair exercises can make a significant difference. Specialized programs like Parkinsons-specific boxing or dance classes can also offer tremendous benefits.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas, our caregivers incorporate gentle movement and stretching routines into the daily care plan, promoting physical vitality and emotional well-being.Creating an Emotionally Supportive Home EnvironmentBeyond managing symptoms, creating a positive and emotionally supportive home environment is essential.Key Elements: Respect and Dignity: Involve the patient in decision-making whenever possible. Companionship: Regular conversation, laughter, and shared activities prevent isolation. Patience and Flexibility: Parkinsons symptoms can vary from day to day caregivers must adapt with grace and understanding. Empowerment: Focus on what the patient can do, not what they cant. Celebrating small victories boosts confidence. Families often find it overwhelming to balance these emotional needs with the physical demands of caregiving. Thats where trusted professional caregivers make a tremendous difference.How At Your Home Caregiving of Texas Supports In-Home Parkinsons CareOur specialized Parkinsons care services are designed to ease the burden on families while maximizing the comfort and independence of the individual living with the disease.Our Parkinsons Home Care Includes: Assistance with personal care, mobility, and safety Medication management and reminders Nutrition support and meal preparation Exercise encouragement and participation Cognitive stimulation activities Emotional support and companionship Home safety evaluations and fall prevention Coordination with therapists, physicians, and family members Every care plan is customized, compassionate, and flexible evolving as the patients needs change over time.Final ThoughtsManaging Parkinsons symptoms at home is both an art and a science. It requires deep understanding, careful planning, and a loving, patient approach. With the right tools, support systems, and caregiving partnerships, families can help their loved ones live meaningful, dignified lives at home for as long as possible.At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is honored to be a trusted partner in this journey. Our expertise in Parkinsons care, our compassionate caregivers, and our commitment to excellence ensure that families receive the support they need, every step of the way.If you are caring for a loved one with Parkinsons disease, reach out to us today. Together, we can build a personalized care plan that brings peace of mind, safety, and hope into your home. At Your Home Caregiving of Texas is committed to helping families manage Parkinsons symptoms at home with expertise, compassion, and customized support. To learn more about creating a safe, empowering home environment for your loved one, explore the Parkinsons Care Compass series or contact us today. Together, we can make every day safer, stronger, and filled with possibility.Contact us at 469-830-8414

Local Services By This Author

ClipDifferent, GBC

Medical Supplies & Equipment 11878 Germaine Terrace, Eden Prairie, Minnesota, 55347

Effortless Grooming for EveryoneOur innovative electric nail clippers are designed to make nail care easy, safe, and hygienic for all ages and abilities. Say goodbye to the struggles of traditional nail clippers and embrace the future of nail trimming! Perfect Nails Made EasyWhether you're shopping for yourself, caring for someone, or seeking a unique & thoughtful gift, our electric nail clippers are the perfect choice for maintaining healthy, well-groomed nails safely and effortlessly.The Power of One Small ThingOur story is woven from threads of compassion and innovation. It all began with Tom McMullen Jr., a man on a mission to make everyday a little easier for those who face extraordinary challenges. Inspired by his sisters resilience in the face of polio and driven by the desire to improve his late wife Trudys life as she battled progressive health issues, Tom set out to redefine whats possible.  From these deeply personal experiences, ClipDifferent was born. Our products are not just innovative electric nail clippers; they are instruments of empowerment.  Theyve been meticulously designed to improve the messy process of nail clipping but more importantly to assist those with hand strength or dexterity issues, sensory impairments, vision loss, cognitive challenges, and upper limb loss or limb difference. They bring relief to parents whose little ones fear nail clippings, to those who would like a safe and better way to clip their nails, aging individuals who want independence and caregivers who want to feel peace of mind for their loved one.At ClipDifferent, we believe that every small act of care and consideration can transform lives. Join us on our journey to make the world a more accessible, comfortable, and joyful place, one clip at a time.Tom McMullen Jr.(ClipDifferent Creator and Founder)Tom and his daughter, Melanie (co-founder)Accepting the Gold Award for Innovation

ClipDifferent, GBC

Medical Devices 11878 Germaine Terrace, Eden Prairie, Minnesota, 55347

Effortless Grooming for EveryoneOur innovative electric nail clippers are designed to make nail care easy, safe, and hygienic for all ages and abilities. Say goodbye to the struggles of traditional nail clippers and embrace the future of nail trimming! Perfect Nails Made EasyWhether you're shopping for yourself, caring for someone, or seeking a unique & thoughtful gift, our electric nail clippers are the perfect choice for maintaining healthy, well-groomed nails safely and effortlessly.The Power of One Small ThingOur story is woven from threads of compassion and innovation. It all began with Tom McMullen Jr., a man on a mission to make everyday a little easier for those who face extraordinary challenges. Inspired by his sisters resilience in the face of polio and driven by the desire to improve his late wife Trudys life as she battled progressive health issues, Tom set out to redefine whats possible.  From these deeply personal experiences, ClipDifferent was born. Our products are not just innovative electric nail clippers; they are instruments of empowerment.  Theyve been meticulously designed to improve the messy process of nail clipping but more importantly to assist those with hand strength or dexterity issues, sensory impairments, vision loss, cognitive challenges, and upper limb loss or limb difference. They bring relief to parents whose little ones fear nail clippings, to those who would like a safe and better way to clip their nails, aging individuals who want independence and caregivers who want to feel peace of mind for their loved one.At ClipDifferent, we believe that every small act of care and consideration can transform lives. Join us on our journey to make the world a more accessible, comfortable, and joyful place, one clip at a time.Tom McMullen Jr.(ClipDifferent Creator and Founder)Tom and his daughter, Melanie (co-founder)Accepting the Gold Award for Innovation

ClipDifferent, GBC

Medical Supplies & Equipment 11878 Germaine Terrace, Eden Prairie, Minnesota, 55347

Effortless Grooming for EveryoneOur innovative electric nail clippers are designed to make nail care easy, safe, and hygienic for all ages and abilities. Say goodbye to the struggles of traditional nail clippers and embrace the future of nail trimming! Perfect Nails Made EasyWhether you're shopping for yourself, caring for someone, or seeking a unique & thoughtful gift, our electric nail clippers are the perfect choice for maintaining healthy, well-groomed nails safely and effortlessly.The Power of One Small ThingOur story is woven from threads of compassion and innovation. It all began with Tom McMullen Jr., a man on a mission to make everyday a little easier for those who face extraordinary challenges. Inspired by his sisters resilience in the face of polio and driven by the desire to improve his late wife Trudys life as she battled progressive health issues, Tom set out to redefine whats possible.  From these deeply personal experiences, ClipDifferent was born. Our products are not just innovative electric nail clippers; they are instruments of empowerment.  Theyve been meticulously designed to improve the messy process of nail clipping but more importantly to assist those with hand strength or dexterity issues, sensory impairments, vision loss, cognitive challenges, and upper limb loss or limb difference. They bring relief to parents whose little ones fear nail clippings, to those who would like a safe and better way to clip their nails, aging individuals who want independence and caregivers who want to feel peace of mind for their loved one.At ClipDifferent, we believe that every small act of care and consideration can transform lives. Join us on our journey to make the world a more accessible, comfortable, and joyful place, one clip at a time.Tom McMullen Jr.(ClipDifferent Creator and Founder)Tom and his daughter, Melanie (co-founder)Accepting the Gold Award for Innovation