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THURSDAY, JUNE 6, 2013 | SOUTHWEST EDITION | SW | CUSTOMMEDIA SOLUTIONS, A DIVISION OF

The National Associationof Homebuilders (NAHB)estimates that more than 70percent of homeowners do-ing a remodeling project areplanning for the future needsof themselves or their parents.

This trend has becomeso prevalent that the NAHBestablished the CAPS desig-nation, where select buildersand remodelers becomecertified as an Aging in PlaceSpecialist. A CAPS Specialistis trained in Universal DesignPrincipals, which makes ahome more livable for allages and stages of life.“Agingin place” is a term that refersto staying in your home com-fortably and safely, in your

later years.“With a few modifications,

you can create an environ-ment where one can agegracefully. Most importantly,studies show that aging adultsare healthier and happierif they remain in their ownhomes,” said Jack Philbin, apartner in AIP (Age In Place)Custom Builders and presi-dent of Philbin Construction, acompany that has been serv-ing homeowners since 1987.

“The renovations shouldincorporate your signaturetastes, be appealing, and thusvalue-enhancing.There is noneed for accessible homeimprovements to ever look orfeel institutional in any form

or fashion. An experiencedCAPS Specialist will fuse inno-vative design elements withthe highest craftsmanship,”said Philbin.

According to Philbin, here

is an overview of the threemost popular changes beingrequested.■ Barrier-free bathrooms.Revamping the existing spaceto add a luxurious walk inshower with a sitting stool.The shower should have an

entry threshold of less thanfour inches to eliminate trip-ping hazards. Simple changescan also include addingsingle-lever style faucets andanti-scalding devices.■ Accessible kitchens.Reconfiguring the layout to

make it more open and add-ing new cabinets with easy-to-use roll out shelves. Manyopt for new appliances witheasy-to-use controls.■ Additions. Adding afirst-floor master suite forthemselves or their parentseliminates any problem withclimbing stairs in a two-storyhome.

A CAPS Builder will alsoconduct a thorough homeevaluation, suggesting otherUniversal Design elements.These can include leveling orremoving sunken floors androoms, widening hallways ordoorways, and adding light-ing and other accessibilityfeatures throughout the home.

AIP (Age In Place) CustomBuilders specializes in creat-ing aesthetically pleasingbarrier-free living environ-ments.

For more information onUniversal Design home modi-fications and renovations, visitthe Website www.AIPCustom-Builders.com, or call (847)830-0570.

CAPS helps clients stayin the homes they love

Better aging

A home for life: Adapting homes forowners who choose to “age in place”is the major task of certified remodel-ing “CAPS” specialists. One popularchoice is a home addition, such as anin-law suite with its own enrance.| SUPPLIED PHOTOS

Safety first, best:Safety handrails inplaces where splip-ping might occur(farleft), like thebathroom, is just onefo the more popularhome remodeling.Another is newkitchen drawers thateasily roll out.

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