It’s no secret that the United States is aging.
According to the U.S. Census, in 2014, more than 46 million Americans were 65 or older. By 2030, this same population segment is expected to exceed 74 million. The changing demographic is changing many aspects of our culture, not the least of which is residential living options.
“Fixing to Stay,” a May 2000 study by the AARP Public Policy Institute, showed that more than 90% of people over 65 want to live in their homes and communities for as long as possible. This basic desire is the foundation for the goals and methodology behind the “Aging in Place” (AIP) movement. It’s also why there are Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS).
CAPS professionals use their unique skills, experience, and training to help aging adults live independently where they wish and most importantly, help make sure they are safe and secure while doing so.
What is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist?
What is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist?The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist Program was developed by AARP and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in response to the AARP’s “Fixing to Stay” study. The idea is to assist consumers in making their homes usable for a lifetime—regardless of their age or functional ability.
CAPS professionals have been taught techniques and strategies for designing, modifying, and building barrier-free living environments that are also aesthetically pleasing. Yet the CAPS program is more than just code compliant design approaches, remodeling, and buildouts. CAPS professionals can help you and your loved ones develop comprehensive and practical AIP plans and solutions.
Our Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (CAPS) can:
- Install grab bars
- Replace doorknobs with door handles
- Replace kitchen knobs with pull handles
- Widening doorways
- Widening doors
- Add handrails
- Relocate bathroom fixtures
- Improve lighting
- Replace faucets
- Modified change kitchen/bathroom cabinets
- Add wireless camera doorbell
- Replace windows with easy to reach open/close windows
- Replace doors with pocket or barn doors