Home security motion detectors, particularly those using passive infrared technology, can indeed detect pests such as cockroaches, as these sensors pick up infrared light emitted by living creatures. Positioned near points like doorways and cabinets, these sensors are sensitive enough to be triggered by mice, bats and other animals.

Sales-specific assessments are crucial for effective recruitment and development in sales organizations, writes Bob Apollo, a strategic advisor and coach to B2B sales organizations. Traditional hiring methods often result in costly mistakes due to reliance on subjective judgments, but Apollo highlights research which identifies key competencies such as the will to sell, sales DNA and tactical sales competencies as essential for success.

Generative AI has the power to make many things in advertising easier, such as faster data analysis and media optimization, but what it can't do is replace originality, writes Omelet CEO Thas Naseemuddeen. "The way our brains magically superimpose problem-solving skills on our experience as living, sentient beings, plus our feelings and emotions, cannot be replicated. And it can't be replicated because it hasn't happened yet," Naseemuddeen writes.

Design trends that experts say are on their way out include minimalism, sharp corners and manufactured finishes. "A lot of times, nature creates something better despite the imperfections or changes over time," says interior design professional Sarah Latham.

Senior housing occupancy in 31 primary markets rose to 86.5% in the third quarter, up 70 basis points from the prior period, according to an analysis by the National Investment Center for Seniors Housing & Care. Meanwhile, annual average rent growth reached 4.2%.

Stop worrying and embrace the art of scrappiness to progress in your career, writes Julie Winkle Giulioni, who recommends "becoming more resourceful, agile and innovative in identifying and leveraging available opportunities for growth." Start by looking for opportunity zones in your organization and learning from leaders even if formal mentorship programs aren't offered, Winkle Giulioni writes.

The city of Pleasanton, Calif., is including affordable housing in its strategic plan with a focus on seniors and low-income families. More than half of affordable units in the city are currently occupied by seniors.

September saw a modest 0.2% rise in US consumer prices, surpassing forecasts, yet the annual inflation increase was the lowest in over three years at 2.4%. This could allow the Federal Reserve to proceed with another interest-rate cut next month.

In observance of Indigenous Peoples Day and Columbus Day, SmartBrief will not publish Monday, Oct. 14.