http://capablenationalcenter.org/ CAPABLE - Blog RSS Feed 2.0 en-us Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:59:01 GMT Tue, 07 Apr 2026 08:59:01 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16878/CAPABLE-Program-Featured-on-Century-Lives-Podcast---Capably-Aging-In-Place- blog Helping older adults remain safely in their homes is one of the most pressing challenges facing communities today. A recent episode of Century Lives: The Home Stretch highlights one promising solution: the CAPABLE Program. The episode, titled "Capably Aging In Place," features a conversation with three leaders working to advance this innovative approach to healthy aging: Sarah L. Szanton, Dean and Patricia M. Davidson Health Equity and Social Justice Professor at the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing Allyson Evelyn-Gustave, CAPABLE Clinician Training Specialist Shauna Buchmoyer of United Disabilities Services in Lancaster, Pennsylvania Meeting the Challenges of an Aging Population By 2030, every Baby Boomer in the United States will be age 65 or older. Many older adults will live alone, often on limited incomes, while managing mobility challenges or chronic health conditions. At the same time, the nation faces shortages in both housing and senior care. These demographic shifts raise important questions about how communities can support older adults who want to remain in their homes as they age. Small Changes, Big Impact The CAPABLE program offers a practical and effective approach. Developed more than 15 years ago at Johns Hopkins, CAPABLE brings together a nurse, an occupational therapist, and a handy worker to help older adults address functional challenges in their homes. Sometimes the solution is surprisingly simple. Installing grab bars, securing rugs, improving lighting, or adding assistive technology can make the difference between a home that feels unsafe and one that supports independence. These targeted improvements not only help prevent falls and injuries but also empower participants to manage daily activities more confidently. Proven Results Research has shown that CAPABLE can significantly reduce hospitalizations and nursing home stays, while also lowering healthcare costs. As program leaders often say: "Home is where the health is." With communities across the country exploring new models for aging services, CAPABLE demonstrates how thoughtful, low-cost interventions can make a meaningful difference in the lives of older adults. Listen to the full podcast episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0CIXd0sqQdzjrTAPnav6kg   Thu, 02 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16878/CAPABLE-Program-Featured-on-Century-Lives-Podcast---Capably-Aging-In-Place- http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16850/Advancing-Aging-in-Place--Care-Synergy-Shares-the-CAPABLE-Model-at-National-Aging-Conference blog Care Synergy is proud to see its leaders sharing innovative care models with partners across the country. Recently, Tricia Ford, Chief Operating Officer – Hospice/CAPABLE, helped bring attention to the impactful work of the CAPABLE Program during a special breakfast conversation at the Jewish Association Serving the Aging Annual Conference 2026. Hosted for staff and partners of Jewish Association Serving the Aging, the breakfast session introduced attendees to the CAPABLE model and highlighted how the missions of both organizations strongly align. CAPABLE focuses on helping older adults remain safe and independent in their homes by addressing functional needs through a holistic, interdisciplinary approach. During the conversation, participants explored how the philosophies and services of JASA and CAPABLE complement one another. Both organizations prioritize empowering older adults, promoting functional independence, and supporting individuals so they can continue living safely in the place they call home. Events like this create opportunities to share knowledge, spark collaboration, and strengthen the collective effort to support aging in place. Thank you to Tricia for representing Care Synergy and helping expand awareness of the CAPABLE program and the difference it can make for older adults and their families. Mon, 30 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16850/Advancing-Aging-in-Place--Care-Synergy-Shares-the-CAPABLE-Model-at-National-Aging-Conference http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16828/How-the-CAPABLE-Program-Helps-Older-Adults-Age-Safely-at-Home blog A Real Story of Aging in Place: Listening to What Older Adults Need For decades, journalist Paul Pickrem built his career by listening carefully—paying attention not only to what people said, but also to what was left unsaid. When he participated in the CAPABLE (Community Aging in Place—Advancing Better Living for Elders) program in Nova Scotia, he immediately recognized that same attentiveness. What stood out most was not simply the home modifications or assistive equipment, but how the CAPABLE team listened closely to his daily challenges and responded with practical solutions. Paul, who will turn 72 this year, lives with severe arthritis and increasing mobility limitations. Tasks that once felt routine—cutting vegetables, squeezing an eye-drop bottle, or doing laundry—had gradually become difficult. While traditional medical care addressed diagnoses and treatment plans, it often left the practical realities of everyday life unresolved. CAPABLE stepped directly into that gap. By combining nursing support, occupational therapy, and home modifications, the program focuses on what matters most: helping older adults remain safe, independent, and confident in their own homes. What You'll Find in the Latest CAPABLE Newsletter The newest CAPABLE newsletter explores the growing impact of this innovative aging-in-place model and highlights key developments in research, policy, and practice. Real Client Experience Paul Pickrem's story illustrates how personalized support can transform everyday living for older adults managing chronic conditions and mobility challenges. Research on Fall Prevention A recent study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that the relationship between vision impairment and falls in older adults is strongly influenced by home hazards—reinforcing the importance of CAPABLE's home safety approach. Evidence on Health and Cost Outcomes Another study examining CAPABLE implementation found that participants experienced: Improved daily functioning Lower depression scores Fewer avoidable hospitalizations and readmissions These findings suggest CAPABLE can improve health outcomes while potentially lowering healthcare costs. National Momentum for Aging in Place Across the United States, interest in aging-in-place programs continues to grow. Recent news highlights include: A WellSpan-supported CAPABLE initiative helping older adults in Pennsylvania remain safely in their homes. A proposal in New York's 2026 State of the State to introduce a CAPABLE program to support older residents. These developments reflect increasing recognition that supporting independence at home benefits individuals, families, and healthcare systems. Recognizing the Professionals Who Make Aging in Place Possible The coming months also highlight the professionals and public health efforts that support older adults: Occupational Therapy Month (April) celebrates OTs who assess home environments and recommend modifications that improve safety and independence. National Public Health Week (April 6–12) focuses on prevention and community health—principles central to CAPABLE's design. Older Americans Month (May) honors the resilience and contributions of older adults nationwide. National Nurses Week (May 6–12) recognizes the nurses who help participants manage chronic conditions and achieve personal health goals. Together, these observances underscore the collaborative approach that makes CAPABLE successful. Strengthening CAPABLE Programs for the Future As CAPABLE programs expand, many organizations are focusing on strengthening implementation and sustainability through: Cross-sector partnerships with housing providers and aging organizations Workforce support for nurses, occupational therapists, and home modification specialists Data collection and storytelling to demonstrate outcomes and impact Investing in these areas ensures CAPABLE continues to deliver person-directed, evidence-based solutions that help older adults age safely at home. Read the Full CAPABLE Newsletter Explore the full newsletter to learn more about research, policy developments, upcoming events, and real stories from CAPABLE participants. Read it here: https://mailchi.mp/jhu/capable-mar-may-2026-newsletter-17461135   Wed, 25 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16828/How-the-CAPABLE-Program-Helps-Older-Adults-Age-Safely-at-Home http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16637/Saving-Healthcare-Costs-in-the-Real-World--Implementation-of-CAPABLE-in-Population-Based-Care blog The need for evidence-based services that help older adults thrive in the community aligns with the economic need to lower costs while achieving better outcomes. Some hospitals with global budgets have started paying for community-based care to decrease hospitalizations. In a study titled "Saving Healthcare Costs in the Real-World: Implementation of CAPABLE in Population-Based Care," researchers evaluated health, utilization, and cost outcomes associated with CAPABLE, a time-limited intervention to improve daily function, among 205 participants. While not achieving statistical significance, participants experienced fewer avoidable hospitals stays and readmissions. Participants had significant improvements in functional outcomes and decreased depression scores. Implementing CAPABLE has potential to yield cost-saving and health improving benefits for hospitals with global budgets and insurers by reducing preventable hospitalizations. View the study here.  Thu, 05 Mar 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16637/Saving-Healthcare-Costs-in-the-Real-World--Implementation-of-CAPABLE-in-Population-Based-Care http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16366/Study-on-Connection-Between-Home-Hazards-and-Falls-Supports-CAPABLE-s-Work blog Using nationally representative data from 4648 older adults in the US, the cross-sectional study "The Role of Home Hazards in the Association Between Visual Function and Falls in Older Adults" found that the association between falls and visual function (measured by distance visual acuity and contrast sensitivity) "... was confined to those living in homes with environmental hazards," supporting the core principles behind CAPABLE. Published Dec. 11, 2025 in JAMA Ophthalmology. View the article abstract here. Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16366/Study-on-Connection-Between-Home-Hazards-and-Falls-Supports-CAPABLE-s-Work http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16343/CAPABLE-In-The-News---January-2026 blog There's No Place Like Home: WellSpan Grant Supports Older Adults' Safety, Independence At 92-years-old, Guelda Bell and her husband, Glenn, are proud to still be living in their own home in York County, Pennsylvania.  However, their daughter wanted to make sure they were living as comfortably and safely as possible as they enjoy their golden years. So, she connected her mother with the United Disabilities Services Foundation and their Community Aging in Place Advancing Better Living for Elders (CAPABLE) program. Read more in the Franklin County Free Press: https://fcfreepresspa.com/theres-no-place-like-home-wellspan-grant-supports-older-adults-safety-independence/   Governor Unveils Proposals to Increase Support and Resources for New York's Older Adults New York Governor Kathy Hochul proposed a series of initiatives to support older New Yorkers as part of her 2026 State of the State, including a new CAPABLE Program to help New Yorkers age in place. Read more here: https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-unveils-proposals-increase-support-and-resources-new-yorks-older-adults   Wed, 18 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16343/CAPABLE-In-The-News---January-2026 http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16293/Listening-In blog As a journalist, Paul Pickrem has spent much of his life learning how to listen. Over decades of reporting, he has honed a professional instinct for hearing not only what people say, but what they leave unsaid—and what lies beneath the surface. When Paul participated in the CAPABLE program in Nova Scotia, he immediately recognized that same attentiveness at work. What stood out to him was not simply the home modifications or equipment, but how the CAPABLE team listened carefully and responded with purpose. Paul, who will turn 72 this year, lives on a limited income. Increasing mobility challenges, severe arthritis, and the cumulative effects of aging shape his daily life, as they do for many older adults. Tasks that once felt routine—cutting an onion, squeezing an eye-drop bottle, doing laundry—gradually became difficult or impossible. While medical care addressed diagnoses and treatment plans, it often left the practical realities of day-to-day living unresolved. CAPABLE stepped directly into that gap. From the beginning, Paul noticed how different the team's approach felt. "They didn't come in and tell me what I needed," he explains. "They asked me." As someone attuned to power dynamics, that distinction mattered. Week after week, the occupational therapist, nurse, and carpenter returned to his home, asked thoughtful questions, and adjusted plans based on Paul's priorities. "CAPABLE clients aren't passive," he says. "You're part of the process. It wasn't something done to me—it was done with me." That attentiveness translated into action. What impressed Paul most was the team's follow-through. "They did everything they said they would do," he notes.  In a healthcare landscape where promises can feel abstract or delayed, that reliability stood out. It gave Paul confidence that the changes underway would not only address his immediate needs but also support him as those needs evolved. The adaptations ranged from modest to transformative. Bathroom safety improvements included a shower bench with grab bars. Kitchen adjustments restored his ability to wash dishes and prepare food safely. Grabbers, adaptive utensils, compression socks, and tools to help put them on reduced strain on joints affected by arthritis and tremors. Shelving and decluttering strategies made movement through his home safer and more efficient. These were not conveniences for Paul; they were essential supports that allowed him to remain independent. Paul received this care through Victorian Order of Nurses (VON), a non-profit organization that has been providing home and community care in Canada for over a century. The organization has a mission to help people live in their homes and communities by delivering the caring support that they and their families need. VON delivers the CAPABLE program in partnership with Johns Hopkins and Nova Scotia's Department of Seniors and Long-term Care.     As someone who writes about marginalized communities and aging populations, Paul understands the broader context surrounding programs like CAPABLE. Nova Scotia has one of the oldest populations in Canada, and many seniors struggle quietly, unsure what help exists or how to access it. "Most people don't even know the CAPABLE program exists," he says. When he talks about his experience, he frames it not as charity, but as opportunity—an opportunity to be heard and taken seriously. "I tell people to find out more and see if it's right for them." Looking back, Paul describes CAPABLE as rare and forward-thinking—a program that treats older adults as equal members of the care team. "I'm on the team," he says. "That is a big deal." As a journalist, Paul knows that careful listening uncovers the story beneath the surface. He sees that same principle at the heart of CAPABLE: the team listens deeply, identifies what truly matters in a person's daily life, and responds in ways that allow that story ending to change for the better.   Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16293/Listening-In