For many people as they age, parting with a cherished home can seem unthinkable, even when steep stairs and slippery bathtubs become causes for real concern. One alternative - remodeling to make the home safer and more efficient for older residents - is increasingly popular. 'The last 15 years we've been seeing a surge in interest toward this area, especially with baby boomers now reaching that point,' says Ellen Barrios, a new kind of expert called a 'certified aging-in-place specialist.' 'CAPS,' as they are known, include many contractors and architects who work with families to assess risks in the home. The CAPS designation was created several years ago by the National Association of Home Builders and the AARP. The construction required in making a house more senior-friendly can sometimes be drastic, but Barrios says it often is cheaper than moving to assisted living.