what is a caps course

by Ottilie Parisian 8 min read

The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation program teaches the technical, business management, and customer service skills essential to competing in the fastest growing segment of the residential remodeling industry: home modifications for the aging-in-place.

What does an aging in place specialist do?

A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist understands the unique needs of the older adult population and is knowledgeable about, aging-in-place home modifications, common remodeling projects and solutions to common barriers.

Who created the CAPS specialty credentialing process?

the National Association of Home BuildersThe Certified Aging in Place Specialist training (CAPS) program was developed by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Remodelers, NAHB Research Center, 50+ Housing Council and the AARP.

What is CAPS in occupational therapy?

The Certified Aging in Place Specialist was created and supported as a program and credentialing from NAHB, the National Association of Home Builders. There is a structured curriculum with three courses. CAPS I relates to marketing and communication. This is one thing that occupational therapy practitioners do well.

What does caps mean after a name?

Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS)

How Builders Become CAPS Certified

CAPS was developed in 2001 by several divisions of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), in cooperation with the AARP, and is administered by the NAHB. To become certified, you must first pass three required courses:

Working with a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist

Although seniors make up a large portion of the homeowners investing in AIP modifications, they’re not the only ones who may be interested in engaging a CAPS-certified contractor. Those with elderly family members or friends who visit often may find it beneficial to alter an individual bathroom or in-law suite where they can welcome guests.

How many hours of continuing education do you need to become an aging in place specialist?

In order to maintain your Certified Aging in Place Specialist designation, you must complete at least 12 hours of building industry related education every three years. This is your ongoing Certified Aging in Place Specialist training. Incidentally, you can substitute up to two hours of continuing education for participating in community service projects.

Who is Mark from AgeInPlace?

Mark is the Founder of AgeInPlace.com. He also is a consultant and mentor who helps business and organizational leaders serving people over age 50 to reach, market and sell to their best clients more effectively, so they can substantially increase revenue and help more people.

What are the prerequisites for Caps?

There are no prerequisites (other coursework, college degrees, formal education, years of industry service, professional requirements, construction experience, or other requirements) to complete before undertaking or completing the CAPS program, and there is nothing to do afterward such as a paper or project.

Do I need a background check for a contractor?

There is no background check, no multi-page application (it’s a couple of simple one-page forms online), and there is nothing to prove as far as background, education, or credentials. Contractors do need to supply proof of licensing and insurance.

Can you take classes in any order?

Also, the classes can be taken in any order, Nevertheless, there is a certain synergy and continuity developed from taking the classes in order and on consecutive days. If you have taken one or two of the three classes previously, you can simply take the remaining classes to obtain your designation.

Can you take all three classes at once?

Therefore, it is highly recommended that all three be taken together on consecutive days. Steve is one of the few instructors who has consistently offered the classes this way for well over a decade. Additionally, there is a tuition savings by taking them at one time.

Is Caps III a refresher?

Your CAPS designation is valid no matter when you completed it (such as prior to 2017), but you may want to take CAPS III as a refresher course or to apply what you have learned. It is not necessary or required that you do so, but you likely will find it beneficial. It will count as 6 hours of CE.

Do you need construction experience to get caps?

Construction experience or knowledge is not a requirement for obtaining the CAPS designation.

What is CAPS in home building?

The “Certified Aging In Place Specialist (CAPS)” designation is a joint program of the NAHB (National Association of Home Builders) and AARP, which you can obtain after completion of the three-course program of required class material and submission of an application. You do not need to be a member of either organization to complete the program. Here are some other helpful questions and answers about the CAPS program.

Do you need to be a member of either organization to complete the cap program?

You do not need to be a member of either organization to complete the program. Here are some other helpful questions and answers about the CAPS program. As a remodeler or general contractor, a trades sub-contractor (carpenter, plumber, electrician, roofer, flooring or lighting contractor, low-voltage electrical systems, home automation, ...

Graduation Requirements

Proof of liability insurance and workers’ compensation insurance, or be an employee of a company that holds both (where required by local jurisdiction)

Graduation and Renewal Fees

Premium Option NAHB will mail you a graduation kit that includes a customized CAPS plaque, lapel pin, ribbon, and a sample of the “Make Your House a Home for a Lifetime” consumer brochure.

Continuing Education Requirements

NAHB designees are required to complete four hours or credits each year. Designees are NOT required to send in proof of continuing education (CE) earned at time of renewal. However, designees may be chosen for a random audit and NAHB will contact them directly to provide proof of CE. View continuing education requirements for NAHB designations.

Education

Select from online courses, webinars and in-person classes and seminars.

Education Calendar

Search for NAHB designation courses, NAHB events and local HBA educational programs.

Education Awards

Recognizing top industry professionals holding NAHB designations and/or contributing to the growth of designations.

What is the last class in a program of study?

The capstone course is the last class in a program of study.

What is a capstone course?

The capstone course is the last class in a program of study. It’s called a capstone because it represents a crowning achievement as a capstone does in architecture. For some degree programs, a capstone course may require a project and subsequent presentation; for others, it may include an assessment exam to test interdisciplinary skills (like math, ...

Why is it called a capstone?

It’s called a capstone because it represents a crowning achievement as a capstone does in architecture. For some degree programs, a capstone course may require a project and subsequent presentation; for others, it may include an assessment exam to test interdisciplinary skills (like math, writing, critical thinking, etc.).

Can a capstone be used for employment?

Not only does a capstone course allow us to substantiate if students are learning the necessary skills needed to continue onto success after graduation (and we’ve made changes to courses and degree requirements to better assist students in this manner), but the completion of a capstone project can be used for an employment portfolio.

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