It may seem that modifying a home to accommodate our elderly loved one’s needs is straightforward and even easy, how it is in practice is more complicated than that.
While general adjustments such as putting handlebars and grab bars in accident-prone areas can be applied to most situations, these may not be as effective in one home as it is in another.
This is something that we constantly remind our patients ourselves as a provider of healthcare, physiotherapy, and other rehabilitative therapies at Outcomes Therapy. That is why we make it a point to highly encourage them to get a Certified Aging in Place Specialist or a CAPS so they can make the best choices for their situation the first time around.
A CAPS is a professional designated by the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and the AARP to work as a home modification expert. CAPS aren’t healthcare professionals so they usually work with practitioners of occupational or physical therapy and other therapeutic professionals for the best possible outcomes.
Here are the specific ways that these specialists can help you:
- Advise and figure out the most efficient use of your senior loved one’s living spaces.
- Inform you of the best practices in the field as well as building codes and standards, useful products, and resources that will help your senior loved one live safely and independently.
- Work with a professional such as practitioners of occupational therapy (OT) to ensure that all the needs of your senior loved one are addressed.
Does this sound like something your senior loved one can benefit from or needs right now? Don’t hesitate to let us know. One of our specialists will come to you for a consultation.