Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS)
Important Notice
Please read an important notice for active and inactive credential holders regarding credential renewal.
The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) credential 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.
As the senior population grows, many are exploring their housing options—but overwhelmingly, older adults prefer to remain in their own homes. This presents significant opportunities for remodelers, builders, contractors, and occupational therapists. The CAPS credential offers your potential clients what they need most: reassurance that you’ll help them make the choices that will help them stay in their homes safely and securely.
The CAPS credential helps you make your clients’ homes more comfortable and welcoming for everyone. Even if homeowners don’t think they need things like extra lighting or grab bars right now, chances are their future selves—or visiting friends and family—will appreciate those thoughtful touches. The goal is to help your clients live comfortably in their homes for as long as possible. CAPS helps you assist your clients in making the right choices, and it gives you more visibility in the remodeling market niche that’s continuing to grow in popularity.
The CAPS program consists of three courses:
- Marketing & Communicating Aging in Place Client (CAPS I)
- Design Concepts and Methods for Livable Homes and Aging in Place (CAPS II)
- Details and Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging in Place (CAPS III)
By completing these courses, participants will be able to:
- Understand the concept, importance, and challenges of aging in place (AIP)
- Recognize three key AIP market segments and identify related business opportunities
- Explore access points and marketing strategies for reaching AIP clients
- Identify legal, contractual, and real-world functional considerations for AIP projects
- Understand how to collaborate effectively with allied professionals in the AIP space
- Learn design principles, product selection, and modification techniques for occupied homes
- Apply design concepts and solutions to support daily living activities in AIP homes
- Differentiate categories of design and tailor them to AIP market segments
- Develop and implement comprehensive AIP design plans, including installation techniques
- Integrate budget planning and phased construction into AIP project execution
- Identify and avoid common design and installation errors
- Apply targeted solutions for single-room modifications and full-home, multi-generational projects
Upon completion of all three courses, candidates can apply for their CAPS credential.
Curriculum and requirements to obtain your CAPS credential. Learn more
Renewals
- Complete this simple credential renewal request form to renew your credential.
Continuing Education Requirements
View the continuing education requirements for NAHB credentials.
Use this form to submit your documentation.
Increase your professional development while earning continuing education credits. Find courses
The following documents will help you promote your credential:
Checklist
Articles
- Case Study: OT and Remodeler Partnership Leads to Client Satisfaction
- For the Dillinghams, CAPS Means Successful Customer Service
- What is Design for Independent Living?
Member Webinars
(Must be a NAHB member to view)
- Creating Housing Options for an Aging America
- Designing for Aging: Solutions to Built Environment Challenges
- Leveraging the AARP Livability Index Platform for Home Building
- Building for All Ages - Age Friendly Housing and AARP's HomeFit Solutions for Lifelong Living
Shop Talks
