Detailed Course Description: The Transition Feature Explained
Inspired by the universal design entry shelf concept, this elective class of original material by Steve Hoffacker addresses the critical need for non-clinical services in the home for residents and their guests, regardless of their abilities or dwelling type. While there’s no prerequisite, completing the CAPS designation program is highly recommended due to references to CAPS material.
This live Zoom, synchronous, interactive, distance learning class utilizes PowerPoint for an engaging learning experience. It is not self-paced or pre-recorded, ensuring direct interaction with the instructor. No recording is provided.
Why The Transition Feature?
This course emphasizes the significant role of occupational therapists and other professionals in providing essential aging-in-place services. The “transition feature” offers a novel and highly functional approach to improving home safety and organization.
Key Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this program, participants will be able to:
- Define the Transition Feature: Understand its concept, origin, and universal benefits for both rental and owner-occupied dwellings across the entire marketplace.
- Identify Advantages: List two chief advantages of incorporating a transition feature into any home.
- Exterior Features: Name three types of transition features suitable for outdoor use or near the entrance for convenience and safety.
- Interior Features: Identify three features for the foyer or near the entry door inside the home.
- Repurpose Furnishings: Describe how existing furnishings can be effectively repurposed as beneficial transition features.
- Client Empowerment: Learn to identify and utilize transitional features personally, then empower clients to enjoy the same experience.
- Alternative Terminology: Recall three other terms for the transition feature, such as “entry shelf,” “welcome station,” or “convenience station.”
- Social Impact: Discern the potential for the feature to become a topic of conversation among guests and visitors, in addition to its functional and safety benefits.
- Doorway Safety: Cite specific functional and safety aspects of including a transition feature at all doorways within and around the home.
Successful Course Completion
To successfully complete the course, participants must:
- Attend the entire event.
- Actively participate in activities and discussions.
- Have an active camera during the session.
- Obtain a 70% passing score on the in-class knowledge/skill check questions.
Accessibility and Class Size
For those requiring special considerations or accommodations for vision, hearing, or comprehension speed, please contact Steve prior to the class or use the accessibility widget on the site.
To maintain an interactive format and ensure personalized attention, class sizes are kept small. Registration may close once the optimal class size is reached. Please note that several additional offerings of this class are available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is this class all about and why was it created?
A: This class was created specifically for CAPS professionals and anyone focused on keeping people safe in their home through organization and convenience as a fulltime resident or occasional guest. There is no other course addressing this topic.
Q: I’ve heard of using an entry shelf, so is this the same thing, and how will this class help me?
A: An entry shelf is one example of a transitional feature, but it’s so much more than this. Learn how all of us, including residents, guests, and even delivery or service personnel, can remain safer and more organized in the arrival and transition throughout the living space by creating or identifying strategically placed sturdy surfaces for temporary use.
Q: In general, what is the focus of the transitional feature class?
A: This class deals with identifying, creating, or installing several sturdy or solid surface landing or resting places throughout the home for objects we are moving from place-to-place. Many are no-cost or low-cost improvements or something the client already has that be repurposed or repositioned. It’s a way of giving back to the client in a functional, helpful way.
Q: Will I learn about specific features to use in a home?
A: Absolutely. Dozens of examples throughout the home are illustrated and discussed, including how to locate them for optimal benefit. Many features the client may already have, some can be created, and some may be acquired.
Q: What is the benefit of taking this class?
A: The one-of-a-kind course stresses home safety, comfort, and organization for occupants, guests, and visitors to be able to transition through the living space and deposit certain items they have been carrying that they don’t need at the moment and retrieve them minutes or days later as they desire to use them again. Being able to safely traverse the living space without focusing on managing or balancing items in our hands is a huge takeaway.
