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KABC Hosts First Caring for Older Kansans Panel Discussion

Libby Hastings • November 15, 2024

On November 12th, KABC hosted our first Caring for Older Kansans Panel Discussion at the Baker Wetlands Discovery Center, bringing together an audience of around 40 attendees to explore the pressing issues facing long-term care in Kansas. The event was moderated by award-winning journalist Jim McLean, political correspondent for the Kansas News Service and Senior Contributor with Kansas Public Radio, who expertly guided the conversation.


Panelists


The panel featured three distinguished experts in the long-term care field:


  • Janis DeBoer, former Deputy Secretary of Programs at KDADS and a 30-year veteran in long-term care, shared her knowledge on Medicaid services, nursing facility challenges, and the importance of community-based services.
  • Camille Russell, former Kansas Long-Term Care Ombudsman, highlighted the importance of person-centered practices and shared her experiences advocating for nursing facility residents.
  • Rep. Susan Concannon (R-Beloit) from District 107 offered a legislative perspective, emphasizing the need for reform in the long-term care system while navigating a challenging political environment.


Key Issues Discussed


The conversation touched on several critical topics:


1. Challenges in Nursing Facilities

Janis DeBoer noted that nursing facilities have long been difficult to manage, with a lack of effective quality care metrics and a system built more for providers than consumers. Rep. Concannon echoed this, citing the disconnect between government funding and accountability.


2. Policy and Data Gaps

The panel emphasized how the transition from the Kansas Department on Aging (KDOA) to the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) deprioritized senior issues. DeBoer stressed the need for statewide data to support advocacy efforts, while Camille Russell called for policymakers to hear directly from nursing home residents and an increase in grassroots advocacy efforts. 


3. Workforce Challenges

Workforce shortages remain a significant barrier to quality care. DeBoer called for increased pay throughout the industry and better working conditions for CNAs. The panel agreed that a cultural shift is needed to make long-term care jobs more attractive and sustainable.


4. Transparency and Consumer Awareness

The panel discussed the need for greater transparency in the system, including access to quality care metrics and ownership information. Rep. Concannon pointed out that while survey data is accessible, most consumers are unaware of it.


5. Shifting Toward Community-Based Services

DeBoer underscored the cost-saving and quality-of-life benefits of reducing nursing facility stays by investing in community-based services. Research shows that these services increase the likelihood of individuals returning home and living independently.


Key Takeaways


The event highlighted three primary areas for improvement:


  1. Greater Transparency: Make information on facility performance and ownership readily available to consumers and the public.
  2. Improved Communication: Foster collaboration among stakeholders, including policymakers, service providers, and families, to address systemic gaps.
  3. Diversifying Service Options: Reduce Kansas's reliance on institutional care by expanding and strengthening community-based services for older adults.


Special Highlights



Sherman Smith of the Kansas Reflector attended the event to document the discussion, capturing key moments and engaging with attendees and panelists. The participation of Senator Francisco (D- Lawrence) and Representative McDonald (D-Olathe) further underscored the importance of legislative involvement in shaping the future of long-term care in Kansas.


This event was an impactful step toward fostering dialogue, raising awareness, and advocating for meaningful change in long-term care policy and practice in Kansas. We look forward to continuing the conversation and driving progress for older Kansans.

Advocacy with KABC 101: Your Guide to Making an Impact

By Libby Hastings • February 10, 2025
The Kansas legislative session is in full swing, making it the perfect time to engage with your lawmakers and advocate for policies that improve long-term care in our state. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just getting started, knowing how to effectively communicate with legislators is key to making a difference. We believe that every voice matters, and lawmakers want to hear from the people they represent. To find your legislator, visit the Kansas legislative website. When you visit www.kslegislature.org , there is an option on the left side of the website to “Find Your Legislator”. You may search by name, chamber, party, or select “Seach by Your Address”. This will lead you to Plural , a platform to find bill information and your local legislators by typing in your home address. Tips for Effective Advocacy Be Friendly – Legislators are people too! Approach them with sincerity and honesty. While time may be limited, be sure to focus on the issue you're there to champion. Be Prepared – This is your chance to educate. Start with a clear, concise explanation of the issue, and provide only factual information. Be Respectful – Not everyone will agree with your position. Some lawmakers may have concerns about costs, feasibility, or other factors. Treat them with respect, as they may be allies on future issues. Be Direct – Answer questions openly and honestly. Share the full picture, including both the challenges and the solutions. Ask for a Specific Action – Make it clear what you want your legislator to do. Common advocacy actions include: Sponsoring a bill Urging committee leadership to take action on a bill Speaking for or against a bill during debate Holding a public event to raise awareness Writing a letter to state agencies about oversight and implementation of a law Establish a Relationship – Don't just reach out when you need something. Contact your legislators regularly, thank them when they support your issues, and stay engaged. Building a relationship increases the likelihood they will listen when you advocate for change. Say Thanks – Gratitude goes a long way! Always follow up with a thank-you note or email after a meeting, even if the legislator disagrees with your position. Advocacy is about persistence, education, and relationship-building. By using these strategies, you can help ensure that long-term care remains a priority for Kansas lawmakers. Want to learn more? Check out KABC’s full Advocacy 101 guide here .

Advocacy in Action (February 2025): KABC Testifies Before House Social Services Budget Committee

By Libby Hastings • January 29, 2025
On Thursday, January 30th, Dan Goodman, Executive Director, presented testimony before the House Social Services Budget Committee. His remarks focused on essential recommendations for the Kansas Department of Aging & Disability Services (KDADS) budget, underscoring the urgent need for a Statewide Resource Guide for Older Kansans. Dan’s testimony emphasized Kansas’s rapidly aging population, with projections showing that more than 20% of Kansans will be 65 or older by 2030. With state resources already stretched thin, KABC urged the committee to prioritize investments in solutions that diversify and enhance access to long-term care services across Kansas. Highlighting the Statewide Resource Guide KABC’s flagship recommendation was a comprehensive Statewide Resource Guide for Older Kansans, modeled after the highly successful Douglas County Senior Resource Directory. The proposal seeks $190,000 to develop and distribute a directory that would serve as an essential tool for older Kansans and their families. The funding would cover: Initial Setup & Information Coordination: $85,000 One-Time Master Printing for Statewide Distribution (35,000 copies): $105,000 The guide would provide accurate, accessible, and up-to-date information on long-term care services and resources, with an online version that could be printed on demand. This initiative aligns with the Senior Care Legislative Task Force’s final recommendations and would empower Kansans to make informed decisions about care options. Dan emphasized the proven success of the Douglas County Senior Resource Directory, which KABC developed with grant funding through the Douglas County Community Foundation. Since its launch, the directory has been accessed online by over 700 individuals and distributed to hundreds of older adults, caregivers, and local businesses. Expanding this model statewide would ensure that every Kansan—regardless of where they live—has access to vital information when they need it most. Other Budget Priorities KABC Supports KABC also backed several of KDADS Governor’s budget recommendations, including funding increases for: HCBS Frail Elderly Waiver Growth HCBS Brain Injury Waiver Growth Nutrition Services Incentive Program Stay tuned for updates as we continue to advocate for these critical investments during the legislative session!
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