Aging-in-Place Specialist Questions: A Practical Checklist

Aging-in-Place Specialist Questions: A Practical Checklist
A couple reviews home accessibility improvements with an aging-in-place specialist.

Planning to stay safely and comfortably at home? Choosing the right aging-in-place specialist can make the difference between a thoughtful home update and an expensive project that does not meet your needs.

This guide gives you a simple way to prepare for a consultation, compare recommendations, and choose a professional who understands both your home and your day-to-day life.

What is a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist?

A Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) is a professional trained to help older adults adapt a home for changing mobility, safety, and accessibility needs. CAPS professionals may work in remodeling, design, construction, occupational therapy, or related services.

The CAPS designation was developed through a partnership that included the NAHB Remodelers, Home Innovation Research Labs, the NAHB 50+ Housing Council, and AARP. The training focuses on practical home modifications, project planning, and working respectfully with older adults.

How a specialist can help

  • Identify fall risks, lighting concerns, and hard-to-use areas.
  • Recommend changes to bathrooms, entrances, kitchens, stairs, and bedrooms.
  • Balance safety improvements with comfort, privacy, and the look of your home.
  • Explain options, timelines, permits, and likely costs before work begins.
  • Coordinate with other professionals when medical, therapy, or accessibility expertise is needed.

Questions to ask before you hire

  1. What aging-in-place projects have you completed that are similar to mine?
  2. Are you CAPS certified, licensed, insured, and familiar with local permits?
  3. How will you learn about my routines, goals, and future needs?
  4. What improvements would you recommend first, and why?
  5. Can you provide a written scope of work, timeline, and itemized estimate?
  6. Who will do the work, and how will changes or unexpected costs be handled?
  7. Can you share references from clients who completed similar projects?
Helpful tip: Bring photos, a list of everyday challenges, and any recommendations from your doctor or therapist. The more context you share, the more useful the consultation will be.

Before the consultation

Walk through your home and note places where you feel unsteady, avoid certain tasks, or need help. Think about what may change over the next few years—not only what is difficult today. A good specialist should listen first, explain options clearly, and help you prioritize.

Download the checklists

Use the original guide for a broad overview, then print the new worksheet to organize your questions and compare recommendations.

Download the original guide: Questions for Certified Aging-in-Place Specialists (PDF)

Download the 2026 printable consultation worksheet (PDF)

More support from Caregiver Relief

Explore our caregiver resources, browse caregiving topics, or connect with a Caregiver Coach for personalized support.