Remaining at home throughout your silver years just got easier. In 2005, the AARP and National Home Builders Association created the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) certification. This curriculum trains home builders and remodelers to adapt physical structures for the special needs of aging persons. Through this service, older adults have the choice of remodeling their existing home and creating a safer environment for any current or future needs.

Don Bybee, owner of Bybee Construction Inc. of North Richland Hills, Texas, has earned his CAPS certification through his involvement with the Tarrant County Home Builders Association. A Graduate Master Builder with 21 years of experience in construction and remodeling, Bybee sought the CAPS designation to expand his skills in providing remodeling services for seniors and people with disabilities. “Every case is different, and I try to incorporate what the owner wants,” says Bybee. “With a few modifications, particularly in kitchens and bathrooms, seniors are able to stay at home as long as possible.”

One of the main tenets learned through a CAPS designation are the methods of universal design. Universal design incorporates designs allowing anyone to use that structure. In the home environment, this may include features like grab bars in the shower or access ramps at every entrance. Through home modifications that employ universal design, seniors may alter their home environment and remain independent and at home.

Bybee offers a personal example of how his remodeling knowledge helped his own mother. By widening her doorways and replacing the bathtub with a roll-in shower, his 91-year-old mother was able to maneuver through her day with little assistance and improved safety. Installations like elevators, lifts, roll-in showers, widened doorways and grab bars are just some examples of what Bybee and other remodelers can incorporate into existing homes. “With people living longer and remaining in better health throughout their old age, I’ve been able to change up a few things in their home to allow them to stay at home longer.” Bybee says. “If they need some things changed to allow that to happen, that’s exactly what we’ll do.”

How do you know if home modifications are for you? Start with your healthcare providers. Based on your personal needs and environment, a physical or occupational therapist or other health provider can make recommendations for needed modifications. A builder with a CAPS designation works specifically within these recommendations to create a remodeling plan. Bybee advises receiving a personal quote from a prospective remodeler. “A builder should come out and write a detailed estimate of exactly what is needed. They should see the home and understand what the owner wants.”

Financing the remodeling is typically an out-of-pocket expense. Most of Bybee’s clients come from medical insurance companies that work with therapists. While most modifications that are not injury-related will not be covered by insurance, Medicaid waiver programs, Veterans benefits, and long term care insurance may cover some minor home modifications that are medically-needed.  Some modifications can also be deducted as medical expenses. Check with state and federal sources, as well as with organizations like the AARP, to find out about your financing options and eligibility.

The CAPS designation is a relatively new program but accelerating its influence in the senior care industry. With the proliferation of design and technology for special needs, and with more people desiring to remain at home throughout their silver years, home modifications will be the right answer for more and more seniors.