The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation 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 aging in place.

NAHB Remodelers - in collaboration with the AARP, Home Innovation Research Labs and NAHB 50+ Housing Council - developed this program to provide comprehensive, practical, market-specific information about working with older and maturing adults to remodel their homes for aging in place.

Course 1: Marketing and Communicating with the Aging in Place Client (CAPS I)

• Identify access points and marketing opportunities within targeted AIP segments.
• Explain how allied professionals can collaborate effectively to serve a targeted AIP market.
• Identify common challenges of functioning in a real-world environment for the AIP population.
• Enhance the client consulting process with effective needs assessment and communication techniques.

Course 2: Design Concepts for Livable Homes and Aging in Place (CAPS II)

• Identify special considerations for estimating, scheduling and executing the job while the client is in residence.
• Identify legal and contractual considerations for building professionals providing AIP design solutions for residential clients.
• Describe the categories of design and how they relate and apply to the three AIP market segments.
• Describe specific design concepts for the AIP client.

Course 3: Details & Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging In Place (CAPS III)

• Describe the challenging nature of design for aging in place projects.
• Identify available innovative and specialized products.
• Explain best practices for design and installation of key components in AIP home design.
• Describe the importance of budget and early product selection
• Identify common missteps for design and installation of AIP solutions.
• Recommend the best solutions for common single-room modifications based on needs identified in a provided client assessment and a room survey.
• List installation considerations for recommended modifications in a specified space.
• Prioritize the comprehensive solutions based on previous exercises when integrated into a real-world whole house scenario.
• Evaluate design considerations and installation requirements for recommended modifications based on whole house layout and circulation patterns.
• Prioritize individual projects relative to budget, needs and urgency.

All classes are held from 8 am to 4pm at The Design Institute of San Diego, 8595 Commerce Ave, San Diego 92121.