Name one thing you’ve been doing since you were born – getting older.  In response to the huge wave of Baby Boomers starting to retire, all sorts of products and services are popping up catering to the 50-and-over crowd.  However, none of them hits as close to home as the National acclaimed “CAPS” Program

 “CAPS” stands for “Certified Aging in Place Specialist”.  It is a recent construction credential that has builders, architects, remodelers, designers, and even occupational therapists buzzing. 

 What is “Aging in Place” exactly?  If you are like the majority of Americans you want to continue living at home in a familiar environment throughout your maturing years. 

 How big is Aging in Place?

• 89% of people 50+ wish to remain in their own homes indefinitely (AARP)
• 79% of remodelers have seen an increase in requests for aging in place work
• Over half of all 55+ households rate their current home a 9 or 10 out of 10 (American Housing Survey)

 What should my home contain if I want to Age in Place?

• A master bedroom and bath on the first floor.
• A low or no-threshold entrance to the home with an overhang.
• Lever-style door handlers.
• No change in levels on the main floor.
• Bright lighting in all areas, especially places like stairways.
• A low-maintenance exterior.
• Non-slip flooring at the main entryway.
• An open floor plan, especially in the kitchen/dining area.
• Handrails at all steps.

 If you need a “Certified Aging in Place Specialist” call us at 624-9992.

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