Today we’d like to introduce you to Jenna Smith.
Hi Jenna, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a Doctor of Physical Therapy, Geriatric Clinical Specialist and a certified health coach, and I’ve spent my entire career helping older adults stay strong, active, and independent. I started out working in acute care hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals and home health settings, but over time, I became increasingly frustrated by the gaps I saw in care — rushed visits, confusing care plans, and a lack of follow-through that often left patients feeling stuck or discouraged.
In 2020, I decided to do something different. I started Vitality At Home, a mobile physical therapy practice based in Grand Rapids, MI, with the mission of helping adults continue doing the things they love well into their 70s, 80s, and beyond. Our model is simple: one-on-one care, delivered in the home, focused not just on rehab, but on long-term strength, mobility, and confidence. We take the time to listen, build relationships, and create plans that actually work for the people we serve.
Since starting Vitality At Home, we’ve grown into a small but strong team of therapists who share the same passion for redefining what aging can look like. We’ve also added a wellness component for those who want to stay strong beyond their time in therapy. It’s been an incredibly rewarding journey
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Definitely not a smooth road — but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Starting a business is hard, but starting a mobile physical therapy practice with a completely different model than the traditional healthcare system was even harder. In the beginning, there were so many unknowns: how to market something patients and referral sources weren’t familiar with, how to handle billing and insurance independently, and how to balance being a full-time clinician, business owner and a mom.
There were moments when I questioned everything — especially when I was doing all the admin, all the marketing, and still treating patients every day. But I kept coming back to my “why”: to provide care that actually meets people where they are, both literally and emotionally. That mission carried me through the tough spots.
Over time, I learned how to delegate, build systems, and grow a team that shares my vision. I also had to learn how to take care of myself along the way — which, like most women in healthcare, is still a work in progress.
It’s never been easy, but it’s been worth it. The success stories, the trust we’ve built in the community, and the joy we see when clients realize they can keep doing the things they love — that makes every challenge feel like a step forward.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Vitality At Home?
My business is called Vitality At Home, and we’re a mobile physical therapy and wellness practice serving adults 55+ in the Grand Rapids, MI area. We specialize in helping older adults stay strong, steady, and independent so they can continue doing the things they love — whether that’s gardening, traveling, playing with grandkids, or just getting around confidently in their own home.
What sets us apart is our approach. We don’t believe in cookie-cutter care. Every visit is one-on-one, in the comfort of the client’s home, and completely tailored to their goals, lifestyle, and environment. We focus just as much on prevention and wellness as we do on recovery. Our team brings expertise in aging, balance, strength training, and chronic condition management — but more importantly, we bring time, empathy, and a deep respect for each person we work with.
We also don’t believe you need to be homebound to receive therapy at home — we accept insurance just like an outpatient clinic, without the stress of driving, navigating buildings, or waiting rooms.
What I’m most proud of brand-wise is how our clients feel after working with us: seen, empowered, and hopeful. We’ve helped hundreds of older adults regain confidence in their bodies and take control of their health in a system that often overlooks them.
I want readers to know that aging doesn’t have to mean giving up the things you love. With the right support, it can be a time of strength, growth, and vitality — and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
So many people deserve credit — no one builds something meaningful alone.
First and foremost, my clients have been the biggest inspiration and teachers. Every person I’ve worked with has shaped the way I practice and helped me understand what truly matters in aging well. Their trust and feedback have been the driving force behind everything I’ve built.
I’ve also had incredible support from my team. The therapists who have joined me at Vitality At Home are not only talented clinicians — they’re kind, dedicated, and genuinely invested in our mission. They show up every day with heart and purpose, and I couldn’t ask for better teammates.
Behind the scenes, I’ve had amazing mentors in both business and healthcare — people who’ve answered late-night texts, helped me navigate challenges, and reminded me why I started in the first place. I also have a close-knit group of entrepreneurial women in my life who constantly lift me up and remind me I’m not alone in this.
And of course, my family. Being a mom and business owner isn’t always easy, but my family has been patient, supportive, and endlessly encouraging — even when it meant adjusting dinner plans or listening to me talk about billing codes!
It truly takes a village, and I’m incredibly grateful for mine.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vitalityptgr.com
- Instagram: @vitalityptgr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vitalityptgr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vitality-at-home/?viewAsMember=true
