"Aging in place" a new buzzword for accessibility renos

The most recent issue of Canadian Contractor featured a cover story about “accessibility renovations,” and how the mobility needs of seniors and the disabled is creating a big opportunity for contractors to become specialists in the field.

Well, it seems as if “accessibility” isn’t the only buzzword of the day when it comes to this type of work. How about “aging in place”?  It’s showing up in more and more in the media. And if you are in the business of building wheelchair ramps, providing accessible bathrooms and kitchens, etc., you are likely to run into this term.

Here’s an example from a recent Toronto Star story about accessibility renovations:

“The number of seniors requiring assistance is expected to double in the next 30 years, and some 10 million existing homes will need accessibility updating if those Canadians are to age in place.”

The story went on to quote Peter Simpson, president and CEO of the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association, who referred to a new designation, CAPS (certified aging in place specialist), for home remodellers.

“The renovator will counsel the owner on what can be done to make the home more accessible, meeting not only their current needs but also their needs in the future,” Simpson told the Star reporter.