The Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist™ (CAPS) is an exclusive designation offered by the National Association of Home Builders, in partnership with the AARP, which recognizes builders, remodelers and other industry professionals that have been taught the strategies and techniques for designing and building aesthetically enriching, barrier-free living environments. The CAPS program beyond design to address the codes and standards, common remodeling expenditures and projects, product ideas, and resources needed to provide comprehensive and practical aging-in-place solutions. CAPS graduates pledge to uphold a code of ethics and are required to maintain their designation by attending continuing education programs and participating in community service.

What is “Aging-in-Place” ?

Aging-in-place means remaining in one's home safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level. It means the pleasure of living in a familiar environment throughout one's maturing years, and the ability to enjoy the familiar daily rituals and the special events that enrich all our lives. It means the reassurance of being able to call a house a "home" for a lifetime. - (National Association of Home Builders)

Why “Aging-in-Place” ?

The CAPS program was developed by the NAHB, in collaboration with the NAHB Research Center, NAHB 50+ Housing Council, and AARP to address the growing number of consumers that will soon require Aging-in-Place home modifications. If you're like the majority of Americans over the age of 45 you want to continue living in a familiar environment throughout your maturing years. According to the AARP, older homeowners overwhelmingly prefer to age-in-place, as opposed to paying for costly, and sometimes substandard, assisted living. The rising costs of health insurance and assisted living has resulted in many homeowners taking-in a parent or older family member. Making such a decision often requires adding on to one's house, or installing barrier-free features in order to increase access and maneuverability, such as ramps, wider doorways, improved lighting and grab bars near toilets, baths and showers. Most of the time, the cost to add-on or install barrier-free features is far less expensive than the overall cost of assisted living, and the improvements made to the home can be done aesthetically and actually improve the resale value. After all, the purpose behind aging-in-place home improvements is to make a home more comfortable and accessible to everyone, from children to older adults. The more people can benefit from such a home environment, the greater the market your home will appeal to when it comes time to sell.

A Home-Prep "Aging-in-Place" Testimonial:

Hi Andy!

Well, gotta admit I never expected to be the first person to utilize my "aging in place" bathroom, but what a wonderful asset it turned out to be. Darrell loves it and uses it all the time but in June, I had open heart surgery and it was quite a Godsend. THANK YOU - THANK YOU! It was easy to get in and out of and it accommodated a shower chair quite nicely. After feeling like my chest had been hit head-on by a Mack truck, it was wonderful to walk into without climbing over barriers, sit in the chair and reach the faucets and sprayer without having to get up or move around very much. I thought it was a great idea when you mentioned it but guess I never appreciated the full extent of such conveniences until I needed it--and at that time, I needed all the help I could get. I want you to know how much I appreciate the many amenities you added to this house and especially that bathroom. If you suggest the concept to others and for some reason they turn it down, it will be a missed opportunity for a great feature. I'm pretty crazy about this little old house and am so grateful to have found you as the contractor for the remodel. It's great to work with someone you respect and trust.

Take good care Andy and always know that I appreciate you, truly--

Linda

As a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist™ , Andy has been trained to consider and address the unique needs of the older adult population, to design and install aging-in-place home modifications and solutions to common barriers. He would love the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your specific accessibility needs and determine how to best increase your quality of life and preserve the value of your home. His company's service will offer a wide array of solutions that will allow you to remain in your home for as long as you want. Their proactive approach balances comfort and accessibility with aesthetics and style. This creates an environment that does not feel like a hospital or institutional setting, yet still remains adaptable and continues to meet your changing needs over a lifetime. Please call or email for more information.