The first step to becoming a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) is to complete a comprehensive training program.
This program covers topics such as universal design principles, accessibility guidelines, home modification solutions for aging in place and marketing strategies for targeting the growing market of consumers aged 55+ who are seeking to remain safely and independently in their homes.
Upon completion of this program, you will earn a certificate from the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) as a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist.
“The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation program teaches the technical, business management, and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry: home modifications for the aging-in-place.”
NAHB
Once you have earned your CAPS certification, there are numerous opportunities available to further your professional development.
You can join national aging-in-place organizations such as AARP to stay current on the newest trends and regulations affecting aging in place.
You can also pursue additional certifications or education related to fields like occupational therapy or construction management that may help enhance your skillset and make you a more competitive candidate in the marketplace.
Additionally, you can collaborate with other professionals such as healthcare providers to ensure that your clients are receiving the best possible care and services.
In addition to staying informed about aging-in-place trends, having a CAPS certification also demonstrates your commitment to continuing education and professional development.
This type of credential shows employers and clients that you are knowledgeable, prepared and trustworthy — essential qualities for anyone working in this field.
What Is A Certified Aging In Place Specialist?
A CAPS professional is has the knowledge and expertise to work with the aging in place client as well as their family members and caregivers to make home modification recommendations that will increase independence for the consumer.
They are also knowledgeable about product lines in the aging in place and Universal Design market that will ensure your home is not only accessible and functional, but is also up to date and beautiful.
A growing number of health care professionals such as occupational therapists, physical therapists, social workers, general contractors, building professionals, architects, and interior designers are seeking the CAPS designation.
These professionals already have customer service skills and business management expertise. The CAPS curriculum will help you fill in the gaps where you lack knowledge or experience.
For example, the courses cover grab bars, wheelchair ramps, additional task lighting, Universal Design products such as lever handles, and common remodeling projects, and best practices.
CAPS I will educate on how to target the aging-in-place market, particularly the baby boomers. They make up the fastest-growing segment of the residential remodeling industry and have the most disposable income to invest in their current home.
Does The CAPS Certification Expire?
In order to maintain your CAPS credential with the NAHB, every designee must complete 4 hrs of CE annually and pay the annual renewal fees to the NAHB.
It is also recommended that you stay up-to-date on the latest developments and trends in aging-in-place technology.
To maintain your certification you should participate in continued education courses and certifications every two years to keep your knowledge current.
Staying engaged will ensure that you are providing the best possible service for your clients.
The NAHB has marketing resources available to graduates to help them get started. The NAHB also has chapters nationwide with many councils such as the 55+ Housing Council and the Remodelers Council.
How Many People Want To Age In Place?
The demand for aging-in-place services is on the rise.
According to a survey conducted by the National Council on Aging, nearly 80 percent of adults aged 65 and over want to remain in their homes for as long as possible.
In addition, many seniors prefer to be surrounded by familiar places and people, making this option more desirable than moving into an assisted living facility or nursing home.
By obtaining a CAPS certification, you can capitalize on this growing market and ensure that your elderly clients get the quality services and care they need while remaining in their homes.
With knowledge from the CAPS program, you will have all the tools required to address common issues encountered when providing aging-in-place services such as fall prevention and chronic disease management.
You will also be trained to work with families of seniors who want to remain independent and successfully age in place.
By helping your clients manage their safety, health and home environment, you can help them achieve the highest level of independence possible while aging in place.
With a CAPS certification, you can provide the best care for your elderly clients so they may safely age in place for as long as possible.
You will be able to confidently address common issues that arise when providing services for aging-in-place such as fall prevention and chronic disease management.
Additionally, you’ll have the tools necessary to help families understand the process and make informed decisions about their loved ones’ future and home modifications that will ensure their independence and safety for as long as possible.
Who Can Administer The CAPS Program?
The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation is administered by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
This is a course that is open to anyone who would like to become more knowledgeable about aging in place.
Professionals ranging from home health aides, family caregivers and medical professionals, to building contractors and designers can all benefit from taking this course.
Those who have completed their CAPS certification can provide services such as home modifications, fall prevention strategies, education on home technology and equipment for aging in place successfully.
The NAHB also offers an online courses for those who wish to take the course in the comfort of their home.
For more information on the designation program, go to the NAHB website. Each course can be taken at your convenience.
Once you have completed CAPS I, CAPS II, and CAPS III and pass the exam for each course, you will receive your CAPS certification.
You can then proudly display this certification as a sign of your expertise and knowledge of the aging-in-place industry.
The NAHB also offers several professional development opportunities such as webinars, conferences, and additional courses so you can continue to grow in your profession.
With the CAPS certification, you’ll be able to help those that need it most and bring peace of mind to their families.
By earning your CAPS certification, you’ll be joining a growing group of professionals with expertise in aging-in-place services.
These certified individuals are seen as knowledgeable resources in the industry and can provide invaluable advice on how to best serve elderly clients who wish to stay in their home for as long as possible.
The CAPS certification is administered and maintained by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
The NAHB has been offering quality training, education, and career opportunities for home builders since 1942.
They also offer additional courses in business administration and communication strategies to help you grow your business.
The CAPS credential is recognized not only throughout the United States, but also internationally as well.
There is a growing need to serve this large population of potential clients in Europe as well.
Companies that employ Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists are able to provide services with increased confidence, knowing they are working with professionals who have demonstrated their expertise in the field.
CAPS Professionals In Interior Design?
Interior designers can also become CAPS designees. They play an important role in creating a safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing decor.
Designers are familiar with products that are low maintenance, which is very important when designing your home for aging in place.
The professional ASID also recognizes the CAPS courses – CAPS I, CAPS II, CAPS III, and Universal Design Essentials for earning continuing education credits.
Are You A Therapist Looking For A Career Change?
If you are, consider getting your CAPS designation. As an occupational therapist and a physical therapist you already have many of the skills necessary to succeed in the growing field of home modifications as a certified aging-in-place specialist.
Occupational therapists are especially trained for home safety assessment and environmental modifications to help individuals function at their highest potential in their own homes.
The home environment is such an important part of helping senior citizens maintain quality of life in their golden years.
The large population of potential clients is sure to attract other professional such as interior designers into the field. They also have a valuable role in the home modification arena.
I will begin teaching the CAPS program and Universal Design Essentials in March of 2023. Please look at my events calendar to register for the CAPS courses.
