Creative Improvements Company

 

    Elmer A. Thomas, President

Creative Improvements Company
PO Box 5352
Louisville, KY 40255-0352
ph: (502) 451-9694
fax: (502) 254-5144

Aging In Place

WHAT IS AGING IN PLACE?

To age in place means living in your home safely, independently, and comfortably regardless of age or ability level.

To age in place successfully, your home may need modifications to make it safer and more accessible. Home modifications based on principles of universal design bring lasting value to the home. Universal design is an approach to the design of products, services, and environments to be usable to as many people as possible regardless of age, ability, or circumstances. It is a broad-spectrum solution to barrier-free living that recognizes the aesthetic value of home modifications and their appeal to a wide range of consumers.

WHO CAN YOU RELY ON TO MODIFY YOUR HOME?

The NAHB Remodelers of the National Association of Home Builders in collaboration with the NAHB Research Center, NAHB 50+ Housing Council, and AARP developed the Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS) program to address the growing number of consumers that will require these modifications. While most CAPS professionals are remodelers, an increasing number are general contractors, designers, architects, and health care consultants.

CAPS professionals have the answers to your questions. They have been taught the strategies and techniques for designing and building aesthetically enriching, barrier-free living environments. The CAPS program goes beyond design to address the codes and standards, common remodeling expenditures and projects, product ideas, and resources needed to provide comprehensive and practical aging-in-place solutions. CAPS graduates pledge to uphold a code of ethics and are required to maintain their designation by attending continuing education programs and participating in community service.

WHAT IS THE CAPS DESIGNATION?

 A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) has been trained in:

  • The unique needs of the older adult population
  • Aging-in-place home modification
  • Common remodeling projects
  • Solutions to common barriers

Keep in mind that when you hire a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist you are buying a service rather than a product. Each CAPS professional draws from a different knowledge base and will approach your project in a different way. No matter where you start in the process, you will eventually need to hire a professional remodeler to actually make the modifications to your home.

WHEN CONSIDERING  MODIFICATIONS TO YOUR HOME, ASK YOURSELF:

  • Do I want to add a bedroom and/or bathroom to the main level?
  • How can I make my kitchen more functional?
  • How can I make my home safer?
  • Will remodeling increase energy efficiency of my home?
  • Will other family members benefit from modifications?
  • How much money can I budget for the project?
  • Will I need a home equity loan?
  • Where can I find a professional to consult with about my needs?

FOR ASSISTANCE WITH AGING-IN-PLACE NEEDS

CONTACT:

Clara S Thomas, RN, BA, CAPS

Phone: (502) 345-9990

Email: clarasthomas@creative-improvements.com

                        

 Copyright © 2008 Creative Improvements Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

      

Creative Improvements Company
PO Box 5352
Louisville, KY 40255-0352
ph: (502) 451-9694
fax: (502) 254-5144