Certified Aging in Place

A Safe, Accessible Home for All Abilities and Ages

If you're like the majority of Americans over the age of 45, you want to continue living in a familiar environment throughout your maturing years. According to the AARP, older homeowners overwhelmingly prefer to age in place, which means living in your home safely, independently and comfortably, regardless of age or ability level.

The NAHB Remodelers of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) 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 soon require these modifications.

At Stephens Builder, we have invested our time to become CAPS certified. It is our desire to help home owners on the Virginia Peninsula enjoy their homes in ease, safety, and dignity as they move into their senior years.

Questions to ask as you consider remodeling or modifying your home: (click on the link to go to that question)

How should you modify your home to make it more comfortable?
To age-in-place you will probably need to modify your house as you mature to increase access and maneuverability. These modifications range from the installation of bath and shower grab bars and adjustment of countertop heights to the creation of multifunctional first floor master suites and the installation of private elevators.

Who can you rely on to modify your home?
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 modifications 
  • 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.

What information should you think about?

  • Do I want to add a bathroom and possibly a bedroom to the main level?
  • How can I make my kitchen more functional? 
  • Am I worried about preventing falls? 
  • How much money can I budget for this project? 
  • Will I need to get a home equity loan? 
  • Will other members of my family benefit from modifications?
  • Will remodeling increase the energy efficiency of my home?

How do I get started?
Naturally many people are unsure of what their specific needs are or will be in the future. Here at Stephens Builder we will meet with you to discuss your family's needs and help to develop a plan to make your home user friendly for years to come. Please call us at 757.873.4534 or click here to send in a consultation request.

Let Us Help

You wil be delighted with the reception you receive from our family run business. No pressure or regrets, just friendly and honest answers you can trust. To discuss your project just send us a request below.

*  First Name:
*  Last Name:
*  Address:
*  City:
*  State:
*  Zip Code:
*  eMail:
    Phone:
    Project Type:








    Comments: