In the News: Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders

Would you spend $30 to save $3,000? How about $3,000 to save $30,000? That is what the Johns Hopkins University program Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders (CAPABLE) can do for medical cost savings. The focus of the program is to help older adults remain at home by using the care team of an occupational therapist, registered nurse, and handyman. Below is a summary about the CAPABLE Program.

What is CAPABLE?

According to Johns Hopkins University, CAPABLE is a client-centered home-based intervention to increase mobility, functionality, and capacity to “age in place” for low-income older adults. CAPABLE is comprised of an occupational therapist intervention, a client-centered nurse intervention and safety, and access handyman services.

Where is CAPABLE available?

Johns Hopkins University developed the program for low-income older adults. It is available for communities to pilot and was recently funded for expansion by the Rita & Alex Hillman Foundation. At each pilot, it is studied and evaluated for effectiveness which results in increased funding and recognition.

Will insurance pay for CAPABLE?

Medicaid may be able to cover CAPABLE payments during the pilot.

Where are the sources of funding for CAPABLE?

According to JHU, the funding sources include: The National Institutes of Health, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, the John A. Hartford Foundation, the Weinberg Foundation, and the Rita & Alex Hillman Foundation.

The next several phases of CAPABLE are expanding its pilot programs and funding sources. The goal is to provide older adults the support, care and safety they need to live comfortably at home. These interventions available from an occupational therapist, nurse, and handyman are proven to expand the livelihood and life of an older adult. Explore these options and discuss what is available in your area.

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