The Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) certification is one of those things that sounds impressive, but leaves many wondering: is it really worth it? It's a question that doesn't have a simple yes or no answer, but it's worth unpacking.
CAPS certification is offered by the National Association of Home Builders. It's designed for professionals who want to help older adults modify their homes to age in place safely and comfortably. The course covers everything from the technical aspects of home modification to the psychology of working with seniors.
On the surface, it seems like a no-brainer. The population is aging rapidly, and most people want to stay in their homes as long as possible. Surely there's a growing market for professionals who can help make that happen, right?
Well, yes and no. The demand is certainly there. But whether CAPS certification is the best way to meet that demand depends on a few factors.
First, let's talk about the benefits.
CAPS certification can give you a competitive edge. It shows clients that you've invested time and effort into understanding the specific needs of older adults. In a field where trust is crucial, that can be a significant advantage.
The training itself is valuable. It covers a wide range of topics, from specific modification techniques to the business aspects of working with seniors. Even if you're already experienced in construction or design, you're likely to learn something new.
There's also the networking aspect. CAPS courses bring together professionals from various fields - contractors, occupational therapists, interior designers. These connections can be invaluable, both for referrals and for assembling teams for larger projects.
But here's the catch: certification alone doesn't guarantee success. It's a tool, not a magic wand. You still need to market yourself effectively, build relationships with clients and referral sources, and deliver high-quality work.
The cost is another factor to consider. Between the courses, exam fees, and potential travel expenses (I offer virtual classes every month), getting certified isn't cheap. For some, it's a worthwhile investment. For others, especially those just starting out, it might be a significant financial strain.
There's also the question of whether CAPS certification is necessary for your specific situation. If you're already established in a related field and have a good reputation with older clients, you might not need the formal certification to be successful.
The value of CAPS certification also varies by location. In areas with large retiree populations, it might be more recognized and valued. In other areas, you might need to do more educating about what the certification means and why it matters.
One of the challenges with CAPS certification is that it's not widely known among consumers. Unlike, say, a medical degree, most people don't know what CAPS means. This means you'll often need to explain the value of your certification, which can be an opportunity to demonstrate your expertise, but also an extra step in your marketing process.
So, is CAPS certification worth it? For many professionals, especially those looking to specialize in working with older adults, the answer is yes. The knowledge gained, the credibility added, and the networking opportunities can be invaluable.
But it's not for everyone. If you're just dipping your toes into the aging-in-place market, you might want to start by taking on a few projects and seeing if it's a good fit before investing in certification. Or you might choose to focus on building your skills and reputation through other means.
The key is to think of CAPS certification not as an end in itself, but as a potential tool in your professional toolkit. Like any tool, its value depends on how you use it.
If you do decide to pursue CAPS certification, approach it strategically. Plan how you'll use the knowledge and credentials in your business. Think about how you'll explain the value of your certification to potential clients. Consider how it fits into your overall professional development plan.
Remember, in the end, what matters most is not the letters after your name, but your ability to help seniors live safely and comfortably in their homes. CAPS certification can help with that, but it's just one piece of the puzzle.
The aging-in-place market is growing, and it offers tremendous opportunities for professionals who can meet the needs of older adults effectively and empathetically. Whether CAPS certification is the right path for you to do that is a decision only you can make.
But whatever you decide, keep the ultimate goal in mind: helping seniors maintain their independence and quality of life. That's an investment that's always worth making.
Fritzi Gros-Daillon MS, CSA, CAPS, UDCP, SHSS
Household Guardians, Owner
2019 NAHB Instructor of the Year
Published author of "Grace and Grit: Insights to Real Life Challenges of Aging"
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