About the Author

Steve Hoffacker, CAPS, C.E.A.C., Steve Hoffacker LLC, West Palm Beach, Florida (http: //stevehoffacker.com) is an approved instructor for the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist program through the National Association of Home Builders and AARP. He works with non-profits, universities, local governments, health care professionals, designers, remodeling contractors and related professions and specialties to establish strategies and create programs for safe, accessible, convenient, comfortable, and sustainable long-term solutions for people's living environments - regardless of their current age or physical abilities. The emphasis is allowing people to remain living in their current homes - and maintain their independence - for as long as they desire. Universal design is a key paradigm for creating these effective living spaces. Some changes are simple and rather easy to do - a matter of trading out an outdated, ineffective, or difficult-to-use handle, appliance, fixtures, or feature with a more accommodating one. Often homeowners or someone in their family can do it. Other times, professionals need to be involved.