I recently completed training to become a Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) through the National Association of Homebuilders. During our three days of classroom learning, my classmates and I learned about the common struggles experienced by millions of older adults including: mobility constraints, visual impairments, hearing loss, reduced grip strength, and reduced tactile sensitivity. We discussed methods that create a built living environment that is safer and reduces the difficulty of everyday tasks. The classes also taught methods of creating improved environments in ways that had little to no impact on people without physical limitations, a concept called universal design. A great, yet simple example of universal design is selecting cabinet hardware with pocketed handles. These can be more easily opened by individuals with reduced grip strength but are also completely functional for individuals with normal grip strength and come in a variety of shapes and finishes that fit the design aesthetics of the space.

The CAPS classes also challenged us to simulate physical limitations to get a sense for how difficult daily tasks can be for older adults. These exercises, along with the examples of universal design presented, have changed how I view the built environment. For example, I’ve realized how difficult aging in place could potential be in my own home, a ranch style house built in the 1950s. Despite being a single story, there is no zero-barrier entry into the house. Even the two stairs required to enter the main level of the house can present a legitimate trip hazard for someone with reduced mobility and would be impossible for someone in a wheelchair to navigate without assistance. Since completing the course, I have been subconsciously evaluating my house and the homes of friends and families through an “aging-in-place lens.” Things that previously did not catch my attention now stick out like a sore thumb and activate the problem-solving portion of my brain.

Naturally, I envision how Viconic Fall Defense fits into the design of a home intended for older adults to age in place. Installing the Viconic system is a perfect example of universal design at work. For older adults who are fall prone, minimizing trip hazards and reducing risk of fall-related injuries can be critical to their ability to stay in their homes longer without needing to move to a care facility. Viconic provides a safer environment for older adults, without affecting the daily lives of people with a lower risk of fall-related injury. Better yet, it is compatible with thousands of floor covering options that can match the design aesthetic of any home. It provides passive safety perfect for the aging-in-place household.

CAPS training gave me a toolbox of solutions for creating a universally useful, safe, aesthetically pleasing environment and Viconic will be a great tool for me and other Certified Aging in Place Specialists for years to come.