Gould's Discount Medical

Certified Aging In Place Specialists (CAPS) - Recommendations Before Home Modifications

May 23rd, 2006

Filed Under: Aging In Place

The National Association of Homebuilders has recognized that many people who are aging are not planning on going straight to the nursing home. They want to remain in their home for as long as possible.  To help these people, and also to make sure that the work will be done correctly, the NAHB has created a new certification, the Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS).

They also have a new brochure out to help those who are looking for help in modifying their home for the eventual aging in place process to help make the house as accessible as possible.

Some of the recommended items are:

• Figure out how much money you have to spend on the home modification project.
• Seek referrals from friends, family, neighbors, co-workers and others who have had similar work done.
• Contact trade associations such as your area’s local Home Builders Association or Remodelers™ Council (see www.nahb.org).
• Check with your local or state office of consumer protection and the local Better Business Bureau.
• Verify the remodeler has the appropriate license(s) in your state.
• Look for professional designations such as CAPS, Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) or Graduate Master Builder (GMB).
• Ask your professional remodeler for a written estimate of the work to be done based on a set of plans and specifications. Be prepared to pay for this package.
• Select a professional remodeler with plenty of experience with your type of project. Remember, lowest price does not ensure a successful remodeling project.