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. The NAHB RemodelorsTM Council, in collaboration with the AARP, NAHB Research Center, and NAHB Seniors Housing Council, developed this program to provide comprehensive, practical, market-specific information about working with older and maturing adults to remodel their homes for aging-in-place.

What is aging-in-place?

In plain English, 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.

Overview of the CAPS Program

In a three-day program CAPS teaches the strategies and techniques for marketing, designing, and building aesthetically enriching, barrier-free living environments. This program goes beyond universal design; CAPS addresses the communication and technical needs to a specific market. CAPS adds value to that knowledge by providing insights into how to market to and work the demographic group.

• Marketing and Communication Strategies for Aging and Accessibility (CAPS I): background on the older adult population; communication techniques;common remodeling expenditures and projects; accessing the aging-in-placeremodeling market
• Design/Build Solutions for Aging and Accessibility (CAPS II): codes and standards; common barriers and solutions; product ideas and resources
• Business Management for Building Professionals: strategies and techniques for building a competitive, sustainable remodeling business; case studies and interactive exercises.