http://capablenationalcenter.org/ CAPABLE - Blog RSS Feed 2.0 en-us Sun, 07 Jun 2026 07:10:58 GMT Sun, 07 Jun 2026 07:10:58 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17250/CAPABLE-Implementation---Fidelity-Check-In-Survey-2025-Results blog Purpose The CAPABLE Implementation & Fidelity Survey is an annual survey of all CAPABLE implementation sites. The survey is a self-report on organizational characteristics and implementation experience. It provides a structured way to consistently: Capture program data (e.g., number of participants completed to date, cost per participant); Identify implementation barriers to and facilitators of CAPABLE; Document adaptations, staffing turnover, plans for continuity, funding sources; Confirm that the organizations are maintaining fidelity to the CAPABLE evidence-based protocol and terms of the license, through attestation by the program administrator. Methods Dr. Deborah Paone, Director of CAPABLE Implementation & Evaluation, prepared and distributed the survey via email to all current CAPABLE program sites in December 2025 providing the URL to an electronic survey. The email was sent to the program administrative contact from each site—the person charged with operationally overseeing CAPABLE on behalf of the organization. Response was requested by the end of January 2026. Dr. Paone followed up several times with additional individual emails and a phone call after the due date to non-respondents. The survey was closed on March 30, 2026. Respondents There were 25 survey respondents (program administrators from organizations with a license), out of 33 organizations that had a license to operate a CAPABLE program in 2025. This is 76% response rate. Organizational Type - Respondents selected among choices given to indicate organizational type. We grouped the responses into five unique categories by selecting the primary orientation of each organization: (1) healthcare, (2) housing, (3) community service, (4) area agency on aging, and (5) university/research. Thirty-six percent identified as a healthcare organization (including 20% home healthcare agency, 8% healthcare delivery system, 8% hospice/rehabilitation agency), 24% as a housing service or housing repair organization (including 20% housing repair and 4% supportive housing unit), 20% as a community service organization, and 12% as an area agency on aging; two organizations identified as university or research organizations.  Read the full report here.     Fri, 05 Jun 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17250/CAPABLE-Implementation---Fidelity-Check-In-Survey-2025-Results http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17198/Colorado-Visiting-Nurse-Association-Releases-2025-Annual-Report-Highlighting-CAPABLE-Program-- blog Colorado Visiting Nurse Association (CVNA) has released its 2025 Annual Report, reflecting on a year of transition, resilience, and continued dedication to improving the health and wellbeing of communities across Colorado. Founded in 1889 as the Denver Flower Mission, CVNA has spent more than 135 years serving Coloradans through compassionate care, trusted relationships, and innovative health services. While healthcare has changed significantly over the decades, the organization's commitment to dignity, personal connection, and high-quality care remains unchanged. The report highlights an important chapter in CVNA's history. In 2025, the organization made the difficult decision to temporarily cease providing Hospice and Home Health services following extensive evaluation and planning. While this marked a significant transition, it also created an opportunity to focus on services that continue to play a vital role in helping Coloradans remain healthy and independent. Today, CVNA's work centers on preventive and community-based programs, including the nationally recognized CAPABLE (Community Aging in Place – Advancing Better Living for Elders) program. Helping Older Adults Age Safely at Home CVNA is proud to be a partner in the CAPABLE program, which combines the expertise of an occupational therapist, registered nurse, and home modification specialist to help older adults achieve goals that improve health, safety, and independence. The program is designed around each participant's personal goals, empowering them to remain safely in their homes and communities while reducing health risks and improving quality of life. In 2025, CVNA served 131 individuals through the CAPABLE program. Research has shown that CAPABLE can reduce hospitalizations and nursing home stays while improving self-care and addressing health disparities among older adults. Building on a Legacy of Community Care The report also welcomes new leadership with the appointment of Ben Marcantonio as President of both The Denver Hospice and Colorado Visiting Nurse Association. His decades of healthcare leadership experience will help guide the organization as it continues exploring innovative and sustainable ways to serve Colorado communities. As CVNA looks toward the future, the organization remains deeply grateful for the staff, volunteers, donors, partners, and community supporters who have helped sustain its mission for more than a century. The 2025 Annual Report demonstrates that while programs and healthcare environments may evolve, Colorado Visiting Nurse Association's commitment to compassionate, community-centered care continues to endure. Read the full 2025 Annual Report to learn more about CVNA's impact, services, and vision for the future. https://vnacolorado.org/userfiles/2706/CVNA_annual_report_2025.pdf Thu, 28 May 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17198/Colorado-Visiting-Nurse-Association-Releases-2025-Annual-Report-Highlighting-CAPABLE-Program-- http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17159/How-CAPABLE-Helps-Older-Adults-Maintain-Independence-at-Home blog A recent article from UCHealth Today offers a powerful example of how coordinated care and community-based support programs can help people regain stability during some of life's most difficult moments. The story follows a Colorado woman navigating chronic pain, financial hardship, housing instability, and complex medical needs. While many different services and supports contributed to her recovery, one important component was the CAPABLE program. CAPABLE — which stands for Community Aging in Place, Advancing Better Living for Elders — focuses on helping older adults remain safe and independent in their homes. The program addresses practical barriers that can impact health and quality of life, often through a combination of home modifications, adaptive equipment, and personalized support. In this case, CAPABLE helped coordinate improvements to make the individual's living space safer and more accessible, including the installation of a walk-in shower and accessible shelving. These changes may seem simple on the surface, but they can dramatically improve daily life for someone managing mobility challenges, chronic illness, or recovery from surgery. The article also underscores a larger truth about health care: medical treatment alone is often not enough. Stable housing, safe living environments, access to transportation, nutrition, and coordinated support services all influence a person's ability to remain healthy and independent. Programs like CAPABLE demonstrate the importance of whole-person care. By helping individuals safely age in place and maintain independence, these services can reduce unnecessary hospital visits, improve quality of life, and provide people with greater dignity and confidence in their daily lives. As health care organizations and community partners continue to look for ways to better support aging populations, stories like this highlight the meaningful impact that coordinated, community-centered care can have — not only on health outcomes, but on people's lives as a whole.   Wed, 20 May 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17159/How-CAPABLE-Helps-Older-Adults-Maintain-Independence-at-Home http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17110/Money-Magazine-Highlights-CAPABLE-Program-Supporting-Aging-in-Place blog A recent article published by Money Magazine highlighted the growing importance of preparing homes for aging in place — and included mention of CAPABLE, an innovative program helping older adults live more safely and independently in their homes. The article explored how many older adults want to remain in their homes as they age, even though most homes in the United States were not originally designed to accommodate mobility challenges or changing healthcare needs. According to the article, home updates and supportive services can play a critical role in helping seniors maintain independence and quality of life. Money Magazine specifically highlighted CAPABLE, a nationally recognized program developed by the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. CAPABLE brings together an occupational therapist, a nurse, and a handyworker to help older adults identify challenges within the home environment and create personalized solutions that improve safety and daily functioning. The article noted that the program's support can include home repairs, assistive devices, mobility improvements, and education designed to help participants complete daily activities more safely and confidently. As more Americans seek ways to age in place, programs like CAPABLE continue to demonstrate how coordinated care, home accessibility, and proactive planning can help older adults remain connected to their communities while maintaining independence. Supporting safe aging at home is becoming increasingly important as the senior population grows and more families seek alternatives that prioritize comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Recognition from national publications like Money Magazine helps raise awareness about the impact evidence-based programs can have on older adults and caregivers alike. To read the full article from Money Magazine, visit: https://money.com/home-renovations-prepare-for-retirement/   Tue, 12 May 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/17110/Money-Magazine-Highlights-CAPABLE-Program-Supporting-Aging-in-Place http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16997/Care-Synergy-and-CAPABLE-Encourage-Organizations-to-Apply-for-CMS-LEAD-Model-and-RISE-Falls-Prevention-Initiative blog Care Synergy and CAPABLE Encourage Applications for CMS LEAD Model Care Synergy and the CAPABLE National Center are encouraging healthcare organizations to apply for a new Medicare innovation initiative designed to improve care for older adults. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has launched the LEAD Model (Long-Term Enhanced ACO Design), a program aimed at strengthening coordinated care and expanding value-based healthcare models across the country. A key component of the LEAD Model is RISE (Resilience and Independence in a Safe Environment), a falls prevention initiative modeled on the evidence-based CAPABLE program. Care Synergy is home to the CAPABLE National Center, which works to expand the reach of CAPABLE's proven, person-centered approach to helping older adults live safely and independently in their homes. Helping Older Adults Stay Safe and Independent Falls are one of the leading causes of injury among older adults. The RISE program addresses this challenge by helping participants reduce fall risks and improve their ability to perform everyday activities. RISE focuses on helping older adults: Prevent falls at home Improve their ability to complete daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and cooking Maintain independence and safety in their homes Avoid preventable emergency department visits and hospitalizations Like CAPABLE, the RISE model uses a team-based approach that includes nursing care, occupational therapy, and home modifications tailored to each individual's needs. Who Should Apply Healthcare organizations interested in participating must form or join an Accountable Care Organization (ACO) and apply to the LEAD Model. The program welcomes organizations with or without prior ACO experience. Selected participants will enter into 10-year agreements with CMS, helping bring evidence-based falls prevention into mainstream Medicare care delivery. Organizations that already deliver CAPABLE services—or those interested in developing a CAPABLE program—may be especially well positioned to partner with ACOs as RISE service providers when the program launches. Important Dates Application deadline: May 17, 2026 Application review: Summer 2026 Selected organizations announced: Early 2027 RISE program launch: 2028 Learn More Care Synergy and the CAPABLE National Center encourage healthcare organizations, ACOs, and partners serving older adults to explore this opportunity and consider applying. Learn more about the LEAD Model and RISE initiative here: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/lead   Fri, 24 Apr 2026 06:00:00 GMT http://capablenationalcenter.org/blog/16997/Care-Synergy-and-CAPABLE-Encourage-Organizations-to-Apply-for-CMS-LEAD-Model-and-RISE-Falls-Prevention-Initiative 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