What is the CAPS certification?
CAPS stands for Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist, a nationally recognized designation offered by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) in collaboration with AARP. This certification equips professionals with the technical, business management, and customer service skills necessary to help older adults and those with mobility issues remain in their homes safely and independently. A CAPS-certified professional understands the principles of universal design and how to implement practical, aesthetically pleasing home modifications. This expertise is crucial for adapting homes for long-term comfort and safety, reducing the risk of falls and other hazards.
Who is the CAPS certification for?
The CAPS credential appeals to a diverse range of professionals looking to serve the senior population and tap into the growing home remodeling market for aging-in-place modifications. Common candidates include:
- Contractors and Remodelers: To expand their service offerings and gain a competitive edge in a specialized niche.
- Occupational and Physical Therapists: To complement their clinical knowledge with practical home modification solutions.
- Interior Designers and Architects: To design and create accessible, functional, and beautiful living spaces.
- Real Estate Agents: To better assist clients looking for age-friendly homes or advising sellers on valuable modifications.
- Healthcare Workers and Social Workers: To better serve clients' needs by understanding the physical environment's impact on their health and independence.
Step-by-step guide on how to get CAPS certification
Obtaining your CAPS certification is a straightforward process that can be completed in a short time frame, even within a few weeks. The path includes completing the required coursework, applying for the designation, and committing to ongoing professional development.
- Enroll in the three CAPS courses. The program consists of three required courses, which can often be taken consecutively over a few days in person or online.
- CAPS I: Marketing & Communicating with the Aging in Place Client. This course focuses on understanding the aging population's needs and effectively communicating your services.
- CAPS II: Design Concepts for Livable Homes and Aging in Place. This segment delves into universal design principles and how to apply them to home modifications.
- CAPS III: Details & Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging in Place. This final course focuses on technical solutions, product selection, and installation techniques.
- Complete the course exams. Each course includes a required exam. While no prior experience is necessary to enroll, you must pass these exams to demonstrate a mastery of the content.
- Submit your CAPS certification application. After successfully completing all three courses, you will submit an official application to the NAHB for the designation. This process is typically handled online through the NAHB's website.
- Pay the application and annual renewal fees. There is a fee for your initial application, as well as an annual renewal fee to maintain the certification. Staying current with these fees is essential for keeping your credential active.
Training options and costs
Comparing CAPS training formats
| Feature | Online (e.g., Steve Hoffacker) | In-Person (NAHB local affiliates) |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Live, interactive sessions (e.g., Zoom) | Classroom setting at a physical location |
| Flexibility | High; can complete from home or office | Lower; requires travel to a specific location |
| Timeframe | Can be completed in as little as three consecutive days | Typically runs over three to four days |
| Cost | Often eliminates travel/lodging costs; course fees vary | Includes course fees plus potential travel and lodging expenses |
| Interaction | Real-time Q&A with instructor; small group | Direct, face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers |
| Best for | Busy professionals, those in remote areas | Professionals who prefer hands-on interaction |
What are the typical costs?
The costs associated with getting your CAPS certification can vary depending on your NAHB membership status and the training provider.
- Course Fees: Generally, there is a fee for each of the three required courses. Members of the NAHB or local affiliates often receive a discounted rate.
- Application Fees: A one-time application fee is paid to the NAHB after completing the courses.
- Renewal Fees: An annual renewal fee is required to maintain the designation, which also mandates completing continuing education.
Maintaining your CAPS certification
To ensure your expertise remains current, the NAHB requires annual renewal of the CAPS designation. This process includes two main components:
- Annual Fee: Paying the renewal fee to the NAHB.
- Continuing Education: Completing the required number of continuing education hours. For example, some organizations report needing 4 hours of CE annually for renewal. The NAHB provides various resources and options for fulfilling this requirement, including webinars and other courses. You can find more information about renewal on the NAHB website.
The value of becoming a CAPS
As the senior population continues to grow, so does the demand for professionals who can effectively and compassionately help clients stay in their homes. Becoming CAPS certified offers numerous benefits:
- Enhanced Credibility: The designation reassures potential clients that you have the specialized training needed for aging-in-place projects.
- Market Differentiation: It helps you stand out from competitors by showing a commitment to serving a specific, growing market niche.
- Expanded Knowledge: You gain an in-depth understanding of universal design principles, client communication, and the practical solutions required for successful home modifications.
- Client-Centered Approach: The training emphasizes a collaborative process, often working with healthcare professionals to ensure the best possible solutions for the client's unique needs.
By following these steps, you can successfully earn your CAPS certification and establish yourself as a trusted expert in the field of aging-in-place home modifications. This will not only grow your business but also help countless seniors live safer, more comfortable, and independent lives.
