The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation program is a certification offered by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) designed to teach professionals in the building, remodeling, and design industries how to modify homes to make them safe and accessible for older adults and people with disabilities.
The goal is to enable individuals to live in their homes safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age or ability level.
Overview of CAPS Certification
The CAPS certification program equips professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to address the growing demand for aging-in-place home modifications.
There are 3 courses that are required in order to obtain the CAPS certification.
Each course is given from 9 to 5 virtually via Zoom.
Note: In person classes are also available. See our Events Calendar for dates.
These courses cover a wide range of topics, from assessing clients’ needs to designing and implementing practical solutions that improve the livability of their homes.
Who Should Become CAPS Certified?
The CAPS program is intended for professionals in the home design, construction, and healthcare industries, including:
- Architects
- Builders and remodelers
- Durable medical equipment providers
- Home care professionals
- Interior designers
- Occupational therapists
- Physical therapists
- Product specialty providers
- Professional organizers
- Realtors
- Senior move managers
CAPS Course Structure
The CAPS certification consists of three courses, which can be taken individually or as a series, typically over three consecutive days.
The courses are:
- CAPS I: Marketing and Communicating with the Aging in Place Client
- The course equips participants with the knowledge and tools to effectively market and sell services to the aging in place (AIP) market.
- Focuses on the demographics of aging and how to communicate effectively with older adults.
- Teaches strategies for marketing aging-in-place services.
- CAPS II: Design Concepts and Methods for Livable Homes and Aging In Place
- Covers the technical and customer service aspects of modifications.
- The course introduces a range of design methods, products, and techniques aimed at modifying existing homes or designing new ones to minimize the need for future remodeling as residents age in place.
- Includes insights into common remodeling projects and solutions for accessibility and safety.
- CAPS III: Details and Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging In Place
- This course builds on the foundations of CAPS I and CAPS II, further enhancing your practical knowledge of design concepts and solutions tailored to meet the needs of aging in place (AIP) clients.
- Explores innovative products and technologies that enhance accessibility.
- Actual case studies.
Learning Objectives
Upon completing the CAPS courses, participants will be able to:
- Understand the aging-in-place concept and the needs of older adults.
- Conduct comprehensive home assessments to identify potential modifications.
- Design and implement modifications that improve accessibility, safety, and comfort.
- Apply universal design principles to create inclusive environments.
- Navigate the ethical, legal, and contractual considerations of working with older clients.
Certification Requirements
To earn the CAPS designation, candidates must:
- Complete all three CAPS courses.
- Pass the examination associated with CAPS III.
- Maintain their certification through continuing education.
Benefits of CAPS Certification
Professionals who become Certified Aging in Place Specialists can:
- NAHB provides an active resource library for all registered CAPS designees.
- Meet the growing demand for aging in place modifications.
- Distinguish themselves in the competitive home remodeling and design market.
- Build trust with clients by demonstrating specialized expertise.
- Contribute to the well-being and independence of older adults and people with disabilities.
SIGN UP FOR THE CAPS COURSES
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Save and sign up for all 3 CAPS Courses
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Have Questions About the CAPS Certification? Please fill out the form below and I will get back to you within 1 business day.
For information on continuing education credits, please visit the NAHB website here.
These courses are AOTA and NKBA approved for CEU’s.