Why Hire a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) for Safer Senior Living

When it comes to our aging loved ones, ensuring their safety and comfort at home is a top priority. Many seniors prefer to stay in their homes as they age, surrounded by memories and familiar environments. However, as they grow older, their homes might need certain adjustments to support mobility and independence. This is where a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) can help.

A CAPS professional is trained to make homes more accessible for aging adults, guiding families through the process of adapting living spaces to meet specific needs. Whether it's adding a ramp to the entrance or widening doorways for wheelchair access, their expertise can be invaluable in making sure a home is safe for seniors to continue living there comfortably.

What Exactly is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS)?

A Certified Aging in Place Specialist, or CAPS, is a professional who helps modify homes for older adults, enabling them to live independently for longer. These specialists go through a comprehensive training program provided by the National Association of Home Builders to acquire the necessary skills. Once certified, CAPS professionals can evaluate your home and recommend changes that will improve accessibility and safety.

Key Services Provided by a CAPS

Aging in place may sound simple, but ensuring the home environment is suited to the specific needs of an aging individual can require significant changes. Here are a few services that CAPS professionals typically offer:

1. Home Accessibility Assessments
   CAPS professionals will start by evaluating whether your loved one’s home can be modified to suit their needs. Some homes might need simple changes like installing grab bars in the bathroom, while others might require more extensive renovations, such as widening hallways or lowering countertops.

2. Providing Cost Estimates for Modifications
   After assessing the home, a CAPS will outline the costs associated with the necessary modifications, whether it involves remodeling a bathroom, installing ramps, or improving lighting for better visibility.

3. Connecting You with Reliable Contractors
   CAPS professionals often have a trusted network of contractors. Whether you need a plumber, electrician, or carpenter, they’ll help ensure the right professionals are brought in to complete the job.

4. Ongoing Support and Post-Project Evaluation
   Once the home modifications are complete, the CAPS specialist will do a final walk-through to make sure everything meets the client’s expectations. They remain involved to address any concerns that might arise later.

Common Home Modifications for Aging in Place

Certain home adjustments are frequently requested to make homes more livable for older adults. These can vary depending on individual needs, but here are some common changes CAPS professionals often recommend:

• Bedrooms: If stairs are a challenge, moving a bedroom to the ground floor might be necessary.

• Bathrooms: Raised toilets, grab bars, and hand-held shower nozzles make daily tasks easier. Installing non-slip flooring or a walk-in shower can also be beneficial.

• Kitchens: Changes like moving the microwave to a lower counter and installing front-facing controls on stoves are common safety upgrades.

• Entrances and Hallways: Widening doorways, adding ramps, and ensuring there’s adequate lighting can drastically improve accessibility.

Why Hiring a CAPS is Worth the Investment

While home modifications can seem costly upfront, hiring a CAPS to make your loved one’s home safer is often much more affordable than the ongoing costs of assisted living facilities. Investing in home improvements could enable your loved one to stay where they are most comfortable while also increasing the long-term value of the property. Additionally, homes that are equipped with accessibility features are increasingly sought after, making them more marketable in the future.

How to Find a Certified Aging in Place Specialist

When you’re ready to hire a CAPS, begin by searching the National Association of Home Builders’ database. Look for someone who not only has the necessary qualifications but also prioritizes your loved one’s safety and comfort. Experience in construction and a compassionate approach to working with older adults are two key traits to look for in a CAPS professional.

Hiring a certified aging in place specialist could make a world of difference for your aging loved one, giving them the ability to stay in their home comfortably and safely for years to come.