CAPS – In collaboration with the NAHB Research Center, NAHB 50+ Housing Council, NAHB, and AARP, the CAPS program was developed to address the growing number of consumers that will require aging-in-place home modifications. A Certified Aging-in-Place specialist has been trained in:

• The unique needs of the older adult population
• Aging-in-place home modifications
• Common remodeling projects
• Solutions to common barriers

Graduates must meet prescribed standards of business practice, have proven track records of successful project management, complete a comprehensive education curriculum, and pledge to uphold the program’s rigorous code of ethics. A contractor with this certification will have a good understanding of the specifications, product quality, and installation techniques that will help assure a first-class installation for their client. Chris earned this certification as part of his ongoing commitment to improving his skills and providing the best service possible for his clients.

Executive Certificate in Home Modification – The Executive Certificate in Home Modification program at the Andrus Gerontology Center at USC consists of 5 courses worth a total of 54 continuing education hours. The courses cover all aspects of home modification:

• Determining the need of the client
• Designing a plan
• Creating solutions that fit the needs and budget of the client
• Raising awareness
• Ethical considerations

This certificate supplements the CAPS training and provides additional resources to help contractors create common sense solutions for life that are beautiful, practical, and safe for all ages.

CEAC Credential – The Certified Environmental Access Consultant (CEAC) credential focuses on consulting and assessing the need of individuals to recommend and implement home modifications. Chris received this certification because he is part of the Accessible Home Improvement of America (AHIA) network, which is a nationwide network of independently owned and operated providers and contractors dedicated to providing accessible home modifications, independent living solutions, and related products and services.

The CEAC credential is recognized by insurance carriers, life-care planners, case managers, and the contractor community.

NAHB Approved Instructor – Chris is a National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Approved Instructor for the following courses:

• Business Management for Building Professionals
• Marketing and Communication Strategies with the Aging in Place Client (CAPS I)
• Design Concepts for Livable Homes and Aging in Place (CAPS II)
• Details and Solutions for Livable Homes and Aging in Place (CAPS III)

His commitment to furthering both his own education and the education of other contractors with regards to aging-in-place renovations have made Chris a valued NAHB Approved Instructor.

Certified Graduate Remodeler – Remodelers who have had at least five years of experience in the industry can apply for the Certified Graduate Remodeler (CGR) educational designation. In order to receive this designation, remodelers must complete a strenuous assessment and at least 12 hours of continuing education, as well as adhere to a strict code of ethics. Chris’s designation as a Certified Graduate Remodeler is a testament to his continued pursuit of education and excellence in the remodeling field.

Senior Home Safety Specialist – As a Senior Home Safety Specialist, Chris has been trained to perform comprehensive home safety assessments. These assessments help to identify safety hazards in the home and recommend remedies. Chris’s designation as a Senior Home Safety Specialist is a testament to his passion for keeping people of all ages and abilities safe in their homes.

How I got started in Aging in Place work

After having been a framing contractor for many years, when the economy crashed in 2008, I was looking for a new direction. My parents had been living in an age restricted community in Arizona for about 15 years. My mom had a stroke and they moved back to Virginia to be near family. Like many people these days, I became a family caregiver. I made some home modifications to their home to make it safer and more accessible. These modifications included a ramp, some grab bars, and some swing clear hinges. These modifications made it easier for her to live safely and comfortably in her own home. In the years since then I have been privileged to help many other people stay in the homes they love. Having been a caregiver for my mother (and later for my father) helps me to understand what others go through when caring for a loved one. Here is a link to my mother’s life story she wrote while she was in Arizona. I hope it helps you understand my passion for Aging in Place.