Thinking of spending your golden years at home? If so, an aging-in-place specialist can help make your transition easier and less stressful.
Today, Baby Boomers are retiring at a record pace. This influential generation has shaped the United States for seven decades. However, things are about to change. According to The U.S. Census Bureau, 73 million “boomers” will retire by 2030. If your goal is to age in place or share your life with a senior, you’ll want to make specific modifications to your home. Essentially, you’ll want to “senior-proof” your living space, such as
- Removing tripping hazards
- Adding task and night lighting
- Installing shower grab bars, shower chairs, and modified toilets
However, you may need a more thorough remodeling job. That’s where a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) can help.
What is CAPS (Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist)?
The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) website says the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) program targets the residential remodeling industry’s fastest-growing segment: home modifications for those who are aging-in-place.
The NAHB and AARP developed the CAPS program specifically to address the growing need for senior-friendly housing. Many CAPS professionals are home remodelers. However, they can also be healthcare professionals.
What Can a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist Do for You?
Our needs will change as we age. If you’re planning on aging in place, you may need to make comprehensive changes to your home.
They may come in the form of:
- Wider, wheelchair-friendly hallways
- Wider doorways
- Lever-style doorknobs
- An extra full or half-bathroom
- Wheelchair ramps
Sometimes, rooms can be repurposed for your retirement years. Perhaps, your first-floor home office can be refashioned into a new bedroom for you, while your current second-floor bedroom can be used as storage. Simple modifications like this can also make your home more navigable for your senior friends.
Ultimately, a certified aging-in-place specialist can help you make proactive preparations for your golden years at home. They can assess your home, show you aging-in-place design options, explain design concepts, and communicate with building & healthcare professionals on your behalf.
How to Find a CAPS Professional
The NAHB Directory is a good start.
At David York Home Healthcare Agency in New York, we’re proud to have Martin Kamiel on our team. In addition to day-to-day management of the agency, Martin has advanced CAPS III training. He’s a certified expert on all the issues faced by seniors who want to age in place at home.
A Final Note About Remodeling and Senior Scams
Shady contractor stories are plentiful. It’s impossible to say exactly how many seniors are defrauded in home improvement scams every year because so many are reluctant to report it. However, we do know it’s enough to receive attention from the National District Attorneys Association.
- No matter how well you know someone or how brilliant their recommendations are, always be sure to vet contractors before allowing them to make modifications in your home.
- Don’t just ask if they have a license or CAPS certification. Inquire about license numbers and check with your state or the NAHB directory from the link above.
- Get thorough estimates in writing.
- Ask a friend to help you review contracts before you sign on the dotted line.
In addition, NEVER pay contractors in full until the work is done. Offer them a portion of the funds to begin work and then pay the balance on completion.
Work With David York Agency’s Aging-In-Place Specialist to Get a Better Quality of Life
If the above information about aging-in-place specialists has been useful, check out David York Agency’s blog for more articles about senior care in Forest Hills.
David York Agency understands the challenges of caregiving and is willing to provide all the support you need.
If you’d like more information about David York Agency’s qualified, compassionate caregivers, contact us at 718.376.7755. A free phone consultation can help you decide what services might be best. If you’d like to hear more from us, please like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter or LinkedIn.
David York Agency Home Healthcare remains committed to providing personalized care for your loved one. If you have questions about our services, please contact us. We can help you through the difficult times and give you the break you deserve!
