Is a CAPS Certification Worth It in 2026? Here’s What You Need to Know

Fritzi Gros-Daillon
Jan 12, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Nov 5, 2025

The Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) certification often sparks the same question from professionals across industries: Is it really worth it?

The short answer: for many professionals, yes - if you know how to use it.

The longer answer depends on your goals, your business, and your commitment to meeting the needs of a rapidly aging population.

What Is the CAPS Certification?

Offered through the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the CAPS designation trains professionals to help older adults live safely and comfortably in their homes for as long as possible.

The program covers:

Aging-in-place principles and universal design
Home safety modification strategies
Client communication and ethics
Marketing, sales, and business development for the senior market

It’s ideal for remodelers, designers, occupational therapists, real estate professionals, and home safety consultants who want to elevate their expertise and credibility in the aging-in-place space.

The Aging Market in 2026

Over 73 million Americans are age 65 or older
90% of them want to remain in their homes
The U.S. home modification market exceeds $25 billion annually
CAPS professionals are certified in more than 20 countries worldwide (Sources: NAHB, Age Safe America, AARP 2026)

The Benefits of Becoming CAPS-Certified

Credibility That Sets You Apart

In a field built on trust, certification matters.CAPS shows clients and referral partners that you’ve invested in specialized training—not just in construction or design, but in understanding people.

It signals professionalism, empathy, and knowledge in an area where expertise truly impacts lives.

“CAPS isn’t just about home design - it’s about quality of life design.”

Education That Expands Your Skillset

The CAPS curriculum goes beyond blueprints and building codes.

You’ll learn how to:

Identify and assess home safety risks
Collaborate across disciplines (with OTs, PTs, contractors, and designers)
Communicate sensitively with older adults and their families
Build sustainable business models in the aging-in-place market

Even seasoned professionals often find the course reshapes how they view their work.

Networking and Collaboration

Each class brings together a mix of professionals - remodelers, therapists, designers, builders, and real estate agents. The result? Connections that turn into referrals, partnerships, and project collaborations.

“Our CAPS network became one of my biggest sources of new business.”

Market Relevance and Opportunity

The aging-in-place industry isn’t a trend - it’s a transformation. With baby boomers reaching their late 70s and early 80s, the demand for certified professionals is surging.

CAPS gives you a framework for tapping into that growth—ethically and effectively.

The Realities: Cost, Time, and Effort

CAPS certification is an investment - both financially and professionally.

Here’s what to consider:

Cost: Expect to spend between $1,200–$1,800 for three courses, including materials and fees. (Household Guardians offers live online training options to eliminate travel costs.)
Time Commitment: Each course typically takes a full day, plus review and project work.
Renewal: You’ll maintain your certification with continuing education credits through NAHB.

For many, the ROI shows up quickly - in new clients, expanded services, and credibility that accelerates trust.

Quick Guide: Who Should Consider CAPS Certification

✅ Remodelers & Builders Want to expand into home modification or universal design projects.

✅ Designers & Architects Looking to make spaces both beautiful and functional for all ages.

✅ Occupational & Physical Therapists Interested in bridging healthcare with home design and safety.

✅ Real Estate Agents Helping clients transition safely into new homes with accessibility in mind.

✅ Home Safety Professionals & Consultants Ready to formalize their expertise with nationally recognized credentials.

The Fine Print: What CAPS Doesn’t Do

CAPS certification is a tool, not a business plan.

It won’t automatically bring clients to your door—but it gives you the knowledge and credibility to market yourself confidently.

You’ll still need to:

Build visibility through online platforms
Educate potential clients about what CAPS means
Form partnerships with healthcare and community organizations

Think of it as your foundation. The structure - the business, the relationships, the impact - is what you build on top.

Geography Matters: Where CAPS Shines Brightest

In regions with large retiree populations - like California, Arizona, Florida, and the Carolinas - CAPS is a recognized, respected credential.

In other markets, you may need to explain its value to clients. But that’s not a disadvantage - it’s an opportunity to position yourself as the expert who’s ahead of the curve.

2026 CAPS Value Checklist

✅ Gain nationally recognized certification from NAHB

✅ Learn to assess, design, and modify homes for aging clients

✅ Build relationships across multiple disciplines

✅ Increase trust and visibility with clients

✅ Expand your service offerings and revenue streams

✅ Contribute to a growing, purpose-driven industry

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

If you’re serious about serving the aging-in-place market - yes, CAPS certification is absolutely worth it.

It offers education, credibility, and connection in one package. But its true value depends on how you apply it. Use it as a launchpad to grow your business, educate your community, and make homes safer and more livable.