I’ve seen the CAPS appellation after some designers’ names, and I know it has something to do with the new “aging in place” focus. Can you clarify what it actually stands for, how you learn more about aging in place, how you earn the appellation, and where I should start my educational journey regarding this very important sector of design” Thank you.
(submitted by Jacquie B.)
According to Michael Thomas, Principal of The DESIGN Collective Group, “CAPS stands for Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist.” And he should know. He is one. “It was all started by NAHB [National Association of Home Builders] and AARP [American Association of Retired Persons] a few years ago, yet the numbers of CAPS-certified interior designers is very low.”
Michael went on to explain to me that “a CAPS certification is provided after 2-3 day training through the NAHB’s educational department,” and that the training “teaches designers, builders and home remodelers the tools, techniques and trends in making a new or existing residence accessible, adaptable and universal.”
After doing a little digging on the NAHB website, I learned that (yes, I admit that I didn”t know much about CAPS either) the program also “teaches the technical, business management, and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry.” Hmmm” So it”s teaching just as much about how to tap into this growing market as how to meet its specific needs. Sweet.
Think about it. This is a huge concern. Although the omnipresent Baby Boomers are aging more gracefully than any generation before it, these sassy seniors still have to face the inevitable (as we all will) ” limited mobility, sensory loss, etc. They might as well do so intelligently, living out the remainder of their Golden Years within the comfort in their own homes. Investing in a little dough in remodeling one”s own home most likely costs peanuts compared to accumulated relocation and assisted living facility fees, not to mention peace of mind and quality of life. Priceless.
For those of you out there who still don”t exactly “get” the whole aging-in-place concept, you can learn more about it on this NAHB webpage, as well as the ASID Aging In Place Resource Center. And, late next year or early 2008, Mr. Thomas himself will have a source for you to employ. Along with aging-in-place advocate Drue Lawlor, FASID, Michael is developing a new book titled “Residential Design for Aging in Place.” Actually, these two have been seeking innovative design ideas to showcase, especially those “that provide unique and attractive examples of design solutions that address aging in place, universal design, and adaptable and accessible interiors.” So, if you or anyone you know has anything that might be of interest to them, let me know, and I will get you in touch with one of them.
