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If predictions are correct, the upcoming Kansas Legislature can likely be summed up by one word: “change.” Leadership changes, a large freshman class of legislators, new committee chairs and a compressed calendar all combine to make 2025 a year full of changes. Added to the mix is a stronger Republican supermajority with an additional 2 seats in the Senate and 3 in the House of Representatives. A quick breakdown by the numbers: The 2025 Senate is comprised of 31 Republicans and 9 Democrats. There are 14 new senators; 13 of whom are Republicans. Almost half of the new senators, 6, previously served in the House. Of the 40 Senators, 27 are men (a gain of 4) and 13 are women. Of the 125 members of the House, 88 Republicans make up the majority with 37 Democrats in the minority caucus. Of the 25 House freshman, 21 are Republicans and 4 are Democrats. Women will make up almost a third of the House, 41, with a gain of 6 House seats in the last election. There are 84 men in the House. One new House member previously served in the Senate. The legislature lost decades of institutional knowledge with the retirement of 19 House members and 14 senators. Many of the retiring legislators were experienced lawmakers who served in leadership positions and committee chairs. Significant procedural changes will impact legislative dynamics. Legislative leaders have adopted a compressed timeline for the 2025 session with plans to adjourn sine die no later than April 12 (the 90th day of the legislative session). Traditionally, the 90th day occurs at the end of April/early May with the ceremonial sine die held in late May. You can view the session calendar here. A new process will change the way the State budget is developed. Instead of using the governor’s budget as the base to begin negotiations, a special legislative budget committee will introduce what is being termed the “legislature’s budget” on Jan. 13, the first day of the session. The special committee met five days during November and December to craft a budget based on the 2024 approved budget, with very few enhancements requested by State agencies. How the budget process and tight time schedule proceeds is still largely to be determined. There are major changes in legislative leadership with the Senate electing Sen. Tim Shallenberger, (R-Baxter Springs) as its new vice president and Sen. Chase Blasi (R-Wichita) as majority leader. Sen. Ty Master (R-Andover) remains Senate president Dinah Sykes (D-Lenexa) will continue as Senate minority leader. In the House, Rep. Brandon Woodard (D-Wichita), takes the reigns as the new minority leader. Committees, too, will look different led by mostly new chairs and/or vice chairs along with new members. In the Senate, a new Committee on Government Efficiency, modeled off the proposed federal Department of Government Efficiency, will explore ways to restructure and reform state government to reduce spending and increase efficiency. All of these changes and multiple moving parts, including the goal to keep a tight rein on the budget, add up to uncertainty related to health and social services issues, including those impacting older adults. With all these variables, this will, in sports terms, be a “building year.” KABC will use this opportunity to build relationships with new and returning policy makers to explore legislation that supports person-centered policies and programs while protecting the rights of aging persons and those with disabilities. We will keep you regularly updated during the 2025 session and opportunities for advocacy but we encourage you to get acquainted with your elected officials. They want and need to hear from you, their constituents. Your experiences and observations about long term care in Kansas helps build their knowledge around these issues with first-hand information about the needs of the people they serve.

When you suspect abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older adults, report as soon as possible! For older adults living at home in the community or in facilities licensed by the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services when the perpetrator is not a resident of or staff of the facility, report to the following: Adult Protective Services (APS): 1-800-922-5330 If an emergency, call your local law enforcement agency or 911 The intent of APS is to protect the most vulnerable adults from harm while safeguarding their civil liberties. For more information, visit www.dcf.ks.gov/services/PPS/Pages/APS/AdultProtectiveServices.aspx When someone suspects abuse, neglect, exploitation, or fiduciary abuse of a vulnerable adult, reporting to APS is a critical step in ensuring the individual’s safety and well-being. Here’s what you need to know about the reporting process and what happens after a report is made. Reporter Immunity Individuals who report suspected abuse or participate in follow-up activities, including testifying in administrative or judicial proceedings, are protected under the law. This means they are immune from any civil or criminal liability, provided their report is not malicious. Additionally, employers cannot penalize employees for making a report or cooperating with an investigation. Confidentiality of the Reporter The identity of the person who makes a report is kept strictly confidential. APS will not disclose the name of the reporter or anyone mentioned in the report without written permission from the reporter or a court order. What Does APS Do When a Report is Received? Once a report is submitted, APS takes the following actions to investigate and address the situation: 1. Initial Visit: APS initiates a personal visit with the adult in question within 24 hours to five working days, depending on the risk of imminent danger to the individual. 2. Interview Process: The alleged perpetrator is interviewed unless this action could increase the risk to the adult. APS may also interview relevant individuals, such as service providers, relatives, or neighbors, to gather additional information. 3. Determination of Findings: APS evaluates the allegations and determines whether the report is substantiated or unsubstantiated regarding abuse, neglect, exploitation, or fiduciary abuse. 4. Prevention Plan: APS discusses with the adult, their guardian, conservator, or caretaker the necessary actions to prevent further harm. A service plan is developed with the adult to address unmet needs and ensure their safety. 5. Assistance and Services: APS helps the adult access services essential for maintaining their physical and mental health, such as: Legal services Medical care Safe and appropriate living arrangements Assistance with personal hygiene, food, clothing, or shelter Protection from maltreatment and transportation Services provided are tailored to meet the adult’s needs in the least restrictive way possible. 6. Advocacy: APS advocates for the protection of the adult’s rights and works to ensure they receive the necessary care and support. 7. Involuntary Intervention: If the adult is incapable of protecting themselves due to a major mental or physical disability and there are no other less restrictive options, APS may initiate legal steps such as guardianship or conservatorship. Reporting to APS is a powerful way to help protect vulnerable adults from harm. The process ensures that reports are handled sensitively, with protections in place for the reporter and a thorough investigation to address the individual’s needs. By taking action, reporters play a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of those who cannot protect themselves.

The holiday season is a time of warmth, connection, and celebration. Yet for many older adults, especially those living in nursing homes, it can be a challenging period marked by feelings of isolation or nostalgia for past traditions. This year, let’s consider meaningful ways to bring joy to older adults and ensure they feel the love and care they deserve. 1. Reconnect Through Visits and Calls Spending time with an older adult can make a world of difference. Whether it’s a quick phone call, a video chat, or an in-person visit, these moments remind them that they are loved and valued. For nursing home residents, a cheerful visit can brighten their day. Consider bringing a small gift, like a festive decoration or a framed photo, to personalize their space and evoke positive memories. 2. Create Shared Experiences Holidays are built around shared traditions. Invite older adults to participate in activities like decorating cookies, crafting ornaments, or watching classic holiday movies. For nursing home residents, arrange group activities such as caroling or storytelling sessions where they can share their cherished memories. 3. Send Cards and Letters Receiving a heartfelt card can lift spirits and foster connection. Encourage family, friends, and community groups to write holiday greetings to older adults. Nursing homes often welcome these initiatives, and some may have "adopt-a-resident" programs where you can brighten the holidays for someone without family nearby. 4. Offer Practical Help Many older adults struggle with tasks that become harder as they age. Offer to help with holiday shopping, decorating their home, or preparing meals. If they live in a nursing home, consider donating time or resources to assist with facility-wide celebrations. 5. Celebrate Their Unique Traditions Every person has unique holiday traditions, and honoring these can be deeply meaningful. Take the time to learn about what the holidays mean to them and incorporate those traditions into your celebrations. Perhaps they’d love to cook a special recipe, attend a religious service, or listen to specific songs that evoke cherished memories. 6. Share Comfort and Warmth Sometimes, the simplest gestures mean the most. Bring cozy blankets, warm socks, or a favorite holiday treat. These small tokens can provide comfort and remind them of the joy the season brings. Making the Holidays Bright Helping older adults feel included and loved during the holidays is a gift that benefits everyone involved. Whether through time, thoughtful gestures, or community efforts, your kindness can create cherished memories and foster a sense of belonging. This holiday season, let’s ensure no one feels forgotten. Together, we can make it a time of joy for all.

If you have a loved one in a nursing home, there’s important news about changes that could impact their care. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued significant revised guidance for nursing home surveyors, with updates spanning everything from admission and discharge policies to medication use and infection prevention practices. These changes, effective February 24, 2025, aim to enhance the health, safety, and quality of life for residents in long-term care facilities. What’s Changing? CMS’s new 900-page revised long-term care surveyor guidance document includes updates to critical care areas such as: Medication Use and Chemical Restraints: A key focus is reducing the unnecessary use of psychotropic medications. Facilities must prioritize non-drug treatments unless clinically inappropriate and cannot use psychotropics as “chemical restraints” for staff convenience. Residents and families also gain stronger rights to be informed and make decisions about medication use. Infection Control: Enhanced measures, including updates for preventing the spread of multidrug-resistant infections and COVID-19, will improve safety for residents. Admission and Discharge Practices: New guidance on prohibiting the requirement of families or third parties to guarantee payment in admission agreements and clarify when discharges or transfers are considered inappropriate. Personalized Pain Management: Updated pain management guidance aligns with the latest CDC standards, focusing on individualized treatment plans tailored to residents’ needs. Medication Rights: A Focus on Psychotropics CMS is strengthening protections against the misuse of psychotropic medications, such as antipsychotics. These medications should only be used when necessary and with clear medical justification. “This change will help to streamline the survey process, increase consistency, and strengthen our message that facilities must prevent the unnecessary use of psychotropic medications,” CMS said in a memo signed by David Wright, director of quality, safety and oversight. Residents also retain the right to refuse or accept treatment after being fully informed of their options. Surveyors, who inspect nursing homes for compliance, are now required to: Investigate cases where antipsychotics are prescribed without sufficient medical documentation. Interview medical directors over their role in the use and abuse of unnecessary medication, especially for residents diagnosed with conditions like schizophrenia without proper evidence. Strengthening Oversight and Care Standards Beyond medication use, CMS is addressing broader care issues: Enhanced Accuracy: New instructions help ensure health assessments accurately reflect residents’ needs. Health Equity: Facilities must now consider factors like race, socioeconomic status, and language when addressing health disparities and developing quality improvement plans. Physical Environment: Newly certified facilities gain more flexibility in meeting certain room and bathroom requirements. What Families Should Know These updates mean more transparency, better oversight, and stronger protections for residents: At the request of nursing facility residents, families should be involved in care decisions and ask about how these changes will affect their loved ones. Nursing homes must provide safer, higher-quality care without the use of unnecessary antipsychotic medication, with greater accountability for medical directors and staff. Surveyors will have clearer tools to identify noncompliance, ensuring facilities meet residents’ needs. Looking Ahead  The updated guidelines take effect in February 2025, giving nursing homes and their staff time to adjust. Training on these changes is already underway.

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: Greater Transparency: Make information on facility performance and ownership readily available to consumers and the public. Improved Communication: Foster collaboration among stakeholders, including policymakers, service providers, and families, to address systemic gaps. 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.

As we approach the 2024 general election, it’s important to ensure that you’re registered to vote and prepared to participate. In Kansas, you must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of the state, and at least 18 years old by Election Day to register. Additionally, if you’ve moved or changed your name, you’ll need to update your voter registration. You can check your voter registration online , view a sample ballot, and check your polling location. Kansas is a “no-excuse” absentee voting state, meaning any registered voter can request a mail-in ballot without providing a reason. The deadline to register to vote or update your registration is Tuesday, October 15th. You can register in person at your local election office, at the DMV, or online if you have a valid Kansas driver’s license or ID. If you don’t have one, you can still register using the paper Kansas Voter Registration Application by mail. For voters who prefer to vote by mail, the deadline to submit your advance voting application is October 29th, and ballots will begin being mailed on October 16th. Make sure your ballot is postmarked by November 5th (Election Day) and received by the county election office within three business days after the election. If you vote in person, Kansas requires photographic identification. Voters 65 or older can use an expired photo ID. For residents in long-term care facilities, absentee ballots may be an easier option than voting in-person. When residents receive their ballots in the mail, long-term care staff must understand what they can and cannot help with when it comes to assisting residents in filling out their ballots. For example, an assistance provider should ask the voter what choice they want to make. The assistance provider must never make assumptions regarding how a person wants to vote. If the resident has a Power of Attorney (POA), that person should be contacted about helping the resident fill out their ballot. The resident has the right to decide whether they want assistance and can choose who they want to help them fill out their ballot. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a recent memo affirming the regulatory expectation that ensures nursing home residents have the unimpeded ability to exercise their right to vote as a citizen of the United States. The memo hits the high points from the Nursing Home Reform Act that requires facilities honor the rights, including the right to vote, of residents.  Federal and state laws ensure that voting is accessible to everyone. If you feel your voting rights have been violated, contact the Office of the Secretary of State at 800-262-VOTE (8683).

When you or a loved one enters a nursing facility, it's important to know that residents have specific rights and protections guaranteed by both Federal and state law. These rights are designed to ensure residents receive the care, respect, and services they deserve while maintaining their dignity and autonomy. As advocates for quality long-term care in Kansas, we want to make sure you're informed about these essential protections. What Are Your Rights as a Nursing Home Resident? Under Federal law, every nursing home resident has the right to: Be Treated with Respect: Residents have the right to be treated with dignity and to make decisions about their daily routine, such as when they wake up, go to bed, and eat their meals. Participate in Activities: Nursing homes must offer activities that meet the needs and interests of each resident, allowing them to remain engaged and fulfilled. Be Free from Abuse and Neglect: No resident should ever experience verbal, physical, sexual, or emotional abuse. If abuse or neglect is suspected, the nursing home must report it, and residents have the right to alert authorities themselves. Make Medical Decisions: Residents have the right to be fully informed about their health conditions, treatments, and medications in a way they understand. They can also choose their doctor and participate in developing their care plan. Manage Their Money: Residents can manage their own finances or choose someone they trust to handle their money. The nursing home must protect residents' funds from loss or theft. Maintain Privacy: Every resident has the right to private communication, whether through visits, phone calls, or mail. The facility must also protect residents' personal belongings and provide living arrangements that respect their preferences. These are just a few of the many rights outlined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The full list of protections ensures that every nursing home resident is safeguarded, from protection against unfair transfers to the ability to lodge complaints without fear of retaliation. What To Do if Rights Are Violated If you suspect that your rights or the rights of a loved one in a nursing facility are being violated, it’s crucial to take action. Bring your concerns to the attention of the nursing home staff such as administrators and nurses, contact your long-term care ombudsman , and document the incident (take detailed notes of what you observed). If you suspect immediate harm, contact law enforcement! We at Kansas Advocates for Better Care are here to help. Whether it’s a matter of neglect, abuse, or other infringements of your rights, you don’t have to face it alone. Contact us today if you or a loved one need assistance. We are committed to advocating for the care, dignity, and well-being of all nursing home residents at no cost to you. Let us stand by your side and help you navigate the process to ensure that the rights of nursing facility residents are upheld.

On Monday, August 26th, Libby Hastings, Communication and Public Relations Coordinator, had the honor of presenting testimony on behalf of KABC to the Robert G. Bethell Joint Committee on Home & Community Based Services & KanCare Oversight Committee. Our goal was clear: to advocate for the reinstatement of the "Explore Your Options" (EYO) resource guide, a vital tool for older Kansans and their caregivers.

Annual Caregiver Training Recap 2024