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On Monday, October 13th, Dan Goodman, Executive Director of Kansas Advocates for Better Care (KABC), delivered testimony before the Robert G. Bethell Joint Committee on Home & Community Based Services & KanCare Oversight. His remarks focused on the urgent need to strengthen Kansas’ long-term care system through sustainable funding and workforce investments. Goodman urged legislators to provide additional funding for the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Frail Elderly waiver , noting projected shortfalls of $27 million in FY26 and $70 million in FY27. Without intervention, hundreds of older Kansans could face placement on a waitlist as early as this fall—delaying access to critical in-home services and increasing the risk of premature institutionalization. He also highlighted the need to support and stabilize the state’s long-term care workforce by exploring innovative approaches used in other states. For example, New Mexico’s Competitive Pay for Professionals program has helped attract and retain workers by linking higher wages to improved reimbursement rates and accountability measures. Goodman suggested Kansas consider similar models to strengthen its caregiving workforce and ensure providers can offer competitive pay. KABC remains committed to advocating for policies that promote quality care, protect older adults, and sustain a strong, well-supported caregiving system across Kansas. Read KABC’s full testimony here: View Testimony (PDF) Watch a full recording of the committee here: YouTube Link
On October 1st and 2nd, the 2025 Special Committee on Health and Social Services met, with the first day devoted to nursing home surveying and credentialing. The joint committee of both House and Senate members heard from the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS), the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, industry representatives from Kansas and out of state, administrators, and contractors. Notably absent were the voices of consumers, their family members, and facility staff , the people most affected by long-term care policy. The committee heard information about: Survey Backlogs and Staffing Challenges KDADS contracts with the federal government to inspect adult care homes for health and safety compliance. KDADS has struggled for years to meet federal requirements, due in large part to recruiting and retaining nurse surveyor positions. More than half of the 60 approved positions were vacant earlier this year. As a result, Kansas currently averages 19.9 months between nursing home inspections , far beyond the federal requirement of 12-15.9 months. With just over 300 federally licensed facilities in the state, timely inspections are critical to protecting residents. To address this, KDADS eliminated 15 vacant positions and raised starting pay: up to $60,000 for multidisciplinary surveyors and $67,000 for RNs . The agency is also considering incentives to encourage more RNs to work as surveyors. Kansas has one of the highest rates of the most serious deficiencies, known as Immediate Jeopardy (IJ) deficiencies, in the nation , citations for situations where resident health and safety are at serious risk. The committee explored the possibility of privatizing the survey process. Resident Rights at Risk Testimony also revealed troubling practices in some nursing homes, including charging residents $200–$300 per month in “pharmacy provider” or “medication set-up” fees if they choose to use an outside pharmacy. This practice undermines residents’ right to choose their own providers and unfairly penalizes private-pay residents, already shouldering an average of $7,000–$8,000 per month in nursing home costs. Involuntary Discharges and the Ombudsman’s Recommendation The Long-Term Care Ombudsman urged lawmakers to expand discharge reporting requirements. As she noted: “Federal regulations require a notice to be sent to our office for a facility-initiated transfer (involuntary discharge) in federally licensed nursing homes, but that is not the case for state licensed homes, assisted livings, home pluses and residential health care facilities. With the help of our office, we can often help resolve the reason for the discharge notice to prevent a resident transfer or support the resident to ensure a transition occurs safely.” The committee heard concerns from representatives of the nursing home industry and decided to delay making a recommendation on this issue, noting that additional information is needed. KABC has advocated for not only strengthening the reporting requirements but also giving residents of assisted living facilities the same right to appeal an involuntary discharge that nursing home residents enjoy. Raising the Personal Needs Allowance The Personal Needs Allowance (PNA) for nursing home residents is a monthly stipend that Medicaid recipients can use for personal expenses. In Kansas, the PNA is just $62 per month. Many residents express concern that this amount is insufficient to cover basic personal expenses such as haircuts or undergarments. An immediate increase to the allowance is needed, along with an ongoing adjustment to keep pace with rising costs. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman recommended a PNA increase to the national average of $72 with an additional annual Cost of Living Adjustment. KABC’s Position KABC will continue to advocate for: • Strong oversight of nursing homes. • Resident rights protections, including freedom of choice in providers. • Central inclusion of residents and staff voices in all policy discussions. You can watch the hearing on the Kansas Legislature’s YouTube channel here . KABC will continue to monitor these conversations closely as the 2026 legislative session approaches.
KABC routinely reviews nursing home inspection reports to help families stay informed and advocate for safe, quality care. A recent inspection of Clearwater Nursing Center, Clearwater, completed in September 2025, uncovered serious deficiencies, including a substantiated case of resident-to-resident sexual abuse . Key Findings from the Inspection Inspectors documented multiple failures at Clearwater Nursing Center: Failure to protect residents from sexual abuse. The report describes an incident where a resident sexually assaulted another resident. Staff failed to ensure adequate supervision and safeguards, resulting in direct harm. Protecting residents from abuse is one of the most basic obligations of any nursing facility. Delayed and inadequate response to the abuse incident. Staff did not act quickly enough to separate residents, report the incident, or ensure proper protections were in place afterward. Medication administration errors. Inspectors found lapses in following physician orders and proper procedures for giving medications, creating unnecessary health risks. Inadequate infection control practices. Staff did not consistently follow hand hygiene and PPE protocols, exposing residents to preventable infections. Poor care planning and follow-up. Care plans were not updated to reflect residents’ changing needs, leaving them vulnerable to gaps in treatment and support. The Facility’s Right to Appeal Clearwater Nursing Center has the right to appeal these findings. Facilities may contest deficiencies if they believe inspection results are inaccurate. However, while the appeal process unfolds, these serious deficiencies remain on record and available to the public. Why This Matters No resident should ever experience abuse, neglect, or unsafe conditions in a nursing home. Federal regulations are in place to protect the health, dignity, and rights of older Kansans. When facilities fail to meet these standards, residents pay the price. At KABC, we stand firmly with residents and families. We advocate for stronger protections, more effective oversight, and a long-term care system that prioritizes people over profits. Families deserve to know when problems occur, and residents deserve to live in environments where they are safe from harm. For those who want to learn more, inspection reports are available through the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. A copy of the report mentioned above can be found here . KABC is also here to help families understand deficiencies and take action to advocate for their loved ones.
Kansas Advocates for Better Care hosted our annual Caregiver Training and Membership Meeting on September 18, 2025, featuring guest presenter Katie Tipton, COTA/L, Director of Business Operations at askSAMIE . Katie shared practical fall prevention strategies to help caregivers support older adults in maintaining independence and safety at home. Falls are the leading cause of injury and death for older Americans. More than one in four adults age 65+ experiences a fall each year, leading to over 3 million emergency department visits, 800,000 hospitalizations, and 32,000 deaths annually. Beyond the statistics, falls can also create a lasting fear of falling, which further limits independence and quality of life. Katie’s presentation highlighted: Understanding fall risks – from muscle weakness and balance issues to medication management and environmental hazards. Simple home modifications – such as removing loose rugs, improving lighting, and adding grab bars in the bathroom, where most falls occur. Caregiver roles – observing changes in mobility, encouraging safe habits like supportive footwear, and assisting with strength and balance exercises. Resources and adaptive equipment – including shower chairs, walkers, rollators, and occupational therapy home assessments. By taking these steps, caregivers can play a vital role in reducing fall risks, helping older adults stay safe, independent, and engaged in daily life. For those who were unable to attend, a recording of the training is available here , and Katie’s slides are available. If you have additional questions regarding this year's training topic, please contact Katie at katie@asksamie.com. During the business meeting, Molly Wood (President), Barbara Braa (Treasurer) & Deborah Merrill were unanimously voted in to retain their current board positions. There were no recommendations from the floor. Executive Director Dan Goodman discussed KABC’s legislative accomplishments for 2025.
Dan Goodman, KABC Executive Director, recently provided testimony to both the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) during their Fiscal Year 2026 budget hearings. Our message was clear: Kansas must invest in systems that protect the dignity, independence, and well-being of older Kansans. Key Recommendations from KABC Protect Access to In-Home Services • Projected shortfalls of $27M in FY26 and $70M in FY27 threaten the HCBS Frail Elderly Waiver. • Without funding, older Kansans may face a waitlist for services, leading to premature nursing home placement. Strengthen Care Coordination • Frail Elderly, Physically Disabled, and Brain Injury waiver recipients currently lack dedicated case management. • KABC urged implementation of the long-overdue $20M Community Care Coordination Service. Improve Oversight & Resident Protections (KDADS) • Surveyor vacancies are near 50%, delaying inspections and weakening resident protections. • We called for wage increases and innovative staffing models to close gaps in oversight. Increase the Personal Needs Allowance • Nursing home residents in Kansas receive only $62/month for personal expenses. • KABC supports raising this allowance—closer to the $70 national average—and tying it to cost-of-living adjustments. Continue the Statewide Senior Resource Guide (KDADS) • KABC requested $150,000 to maintain and distribute the statewide guide annually. • This investment ensures older Kansans have access to accurate, trusted information on care and services. Why It Matters By 2030, more than 20% of Kansans will be age 65 or older. Budget decisions made today will directly impact whether older Kansans can age with dignity, safety, and independence. Read KABC’s full testimonies to KDADS here and KDHE here .
Inside Kansas Nursing Homes: A Special Series Returns in Honor of KABC’s 50th Anniversary In celebration of Kansas Advocates for Better Care’s 50th anniversary, we are proud to reintroduce a powerful special series from our early days as Kansans for Improvement of Nursing Homes. Originally launched in the mid-1980s, Inside Kansas Nursing Homes: Through the Eyes of the Experts offered an unflinching look at nursing home care across Kansas, as observed by those who know it best: the relatives, friends, residents, and caregivers of residents. Now, nearly four decades later, we are bringing this vital series back, with the same grassroots spirit and commitment to truth. This first issue of Volume One marks the beginning of our updated report on the current state of nursing home care in Kansas, informed by the honest voices of frequent visitors who witness daily life inside these facilities. Since April 2025, we have been gathering recorded and transcribed conversations with individuals who care deeply about their loved ones in long-term care. These candid reflections are edited to preserve confidentiality—identifying details are removed, names are changed, and nursing homes are referred to by assigned numbers and regions. Mentions of facilities in passing are designated with alphabetical letters (e.g., Nursing Home A). Over the next year, we aim to gather insights on at least 40 to 50 percent of Kansas’s 305 nursing homes. Volume One of this series, covering roughly 40 homes, will be released in serial form over the coming weeks. Through these voices, we invite readers to reflect, question, and advocate, just as we did in the 1980s. Because meaningful change begins when we listen.
On a July night in Massachusetts, flames tore through Gabriel House , an assisted living facility. The fire claimed the lives of nine residents and injured more than 30. Survivors described heartbreaking scenes: residents leaning out of windows, screaming for help as staff members fled. Many were rescued only by the bravery of firefighters, neighbors, and police officers who broke down doors and carried people to safety. Despite the building having a sprinkler system, fire drills had not been conducted, elevators were broken, and residents with mobility limitations were trapped. A field supervision with Massachusetts’s long-term care ombudsman pled with the state to investigate Gabriel House’s faulty elevator. He was met with excuse after excuse. In 2024, a fire at Brandon Woods senior living facility in Lawrence, Kansas forced the evacuation of 85 residents. Dense smoke filled the structure, and a passerby was the first to call 911 and begin evacuating residents. Mutual aid from surrounding counties was called in, and a Lawrence police officer was hospitalized for smoke inhalation. Thankfully, no residents were hurt — this time. These two incidents tell a clear story: fire safety inspections and emergency preparedness are not optional. They save lives. And yet, during the 2024-2025 legislative session, a bill was introduced in the Kansas Senate that would have eliminated minimum fire safety standards for 720 adult care homes and provider locations across the state. Senate Bill 276 (SB 276) would have removed the authority of the State Fire Marshal to inspect these facilities or enforce compliance , a move KABC calls a recipe for disaster. KABC strongly opposed SB 276 because it would have stripped the State Fire Marshal of its vital role in inspecting facilities, identifying hazards, and ensuring life safety codes are followed. While the bill allowed for the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) to contract with the Fire Marshal’s office, it did not require it, leaving oversight optional and dangerously unclear. Worse still, KDADS is already chronically understaffed. Its surveyors, who are not trained in fire safety, are struggling to meet existing inspection requirements, often with only half the staff needed. By contrast, State Fire Marshal inspectors are specifically trained to identify fire code violations and help facilities improve safety before tragedy strikes Fire and burns are the sixth leading cause of death for older adults in the U.S. In long-term care settings: Cooking is the leading cause of fires (72%) Faulty appliances and electrical systems follow closely Smoking remains the leading cause of death from fires Due to diligent oversight, Kansas has had only two fire-related deaths in adult care homes over the past decade . That record could be reversed if oversight is weakened. Families who entrust care homes with their loved ones do so with the belief that these facilities are regularly inspected, meet state and national safety codes, and are prepared for emergencies. At KABC, we believe every older adult deserves safe, dignified care and that includes protection from preventable tragedies like fires. As we approach the 2026 legislative session, we anticipate this dangerous proposal could return and we’ll be prepared.
Kansas Advocates for Better Care (KABC) hosted its first-ever community car show this month, and we’re still riding high from the energy, joy, and connections sparked at the event. Despite a little Kansas rain, 28 beautiful classic cars and over 200 attendees came out to celebrate. We were thrilled to welcome residents from both Pioneer Ridge and Presbyterian Manor, who joined alongside their families, caregivers, and community members to admire the lineup of vintage vehicles. The car show was part of our 50th anniversary celebrations, and we couldn’t think of a better way to bring generations together for fun, fresh air (a little drizzle), and conversation. We gave away over $100 through our 50/50 raffle , raffled off three gift cards and a car banner (each paired with a KABC t-shirt), and awarded four standout cars: Oldest Car – 1917 Dodge Roadster KABC’s Choice – 1937 Buick Resident’s Choice – 1955 Chevy Bel Air Best in Show – 1971 Ford Mustang Mach 1 None of this would have been possible without our outstanding planning committee , especially Max and Dalton , who helped steer every detail from concept to execution. We also want to give a heartfelt shout-out to our volunteers— Garrett, Richard, and Kurt —for helping during the show, and to our dedicated board member Barbara Braa , who stayed for the entire event to lend a hand. Special thanks to our generous event host, Rev City Church , for providing the perfect space to showcase these cars and connect with our community. We’re also deeply grateful to our event partners: O’Reilly Auto Parts and Audio-Reader Network , for setting up booths, handing out free goodies, and powering through the downpour ThisN’That-LFK , for serving up delicious food and drinks to keep spirits high Douglas County Community Foundation , whose support made this event a reality Our giveaway sponsors: Summit Racing Equipment, Stoner Car Care, Gateway Classic Cars, and EATON Detroit Spring – thank you for helping us create a memorable experience for all From the rumble of vintage engines to the smiles shared between residents and car enthusiasts alike, this car show reminded us why community connection is so vital—especially for those in long-term care. We’re already looking ahead to next year’s show. Until then, thank you for celebrating 50 years of advocacy, community, and care with us.
In a recent article published by The Beacon, reporter Blaise Mesa spotlights a heartbreaking case that exemplifies both the critical importance and serious strain facing Kansas Adult Protective Services (APS). The article, “One elder abuse investigator has 70 cases. Kansas doesn’t say how swamped other caseworkers are,” tells the story of Shirley Crow, an 85-year-old woman with Alzheimer’s whose family trusted a caretaker to manage her daily medications and appointments. That trust was broken. Despite filing a report with APS, Shirley’s family received few updates. Weeks after their report, Shirley passed away. Her case remains open—one of 10,000 APS investigations initiated in Kansas each year. The assigned APS caseworker? She has 70 other cases. This is not a story about blame. As Shirley’s daughter-in-law, Stacy Crow, told The Beacon , “We got an investigator that I truly believe has a heart… I understand they have an overwhelming demand… I don’t fault them. I just want things to change.” And so do we. Systemic Overload and the Urgent Need for Reform The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF), which oversees APS, has not publicly disclosed average caseloads. While DCF clarified post-publication that they do track this information, they choose not to release it, citing confidentiality. The lack of transparency and standardization prevents meaningful accountability and reform. National standards suggest 20–25 cases per worker is a manageable caseload. Kansas APS staff, in some cases, are handling double or triple that amount. With cases increasing year over year— 18,056 in fiscal year 2025 alone—the risk of delayed intervention or missed warning signs only grows. This Is a Wake-Up Call. At KABC, we continue to push for better protections for older adults, more robust support for APS investigators, and greater transparency and accountability from state agencies. In our recent blog post, “ What Happens When You Report to Adult Protective Services? ” we outline the crucial role APS plays in protecting vulnerable adults and how reporting suspected abuse can quite literally save lives. To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult in Kansas: 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 Reporting initiates a multi-step process involving a prompt in-person visit, interviews, and, when needed, development of a service or prevention plan. The goal of APS is to protect, not to punish- to connect individuals to medical care, housing, legal services, or safety planning. But APS cannot fulfill that mission if it's underfunded, overwhelmed, and operating in the dark. What Needs to Change: Transparency: Kansas must publicly release average caseload data and investigation timelines. Support for APS Workers: State leaders must prioritize hiring and retaining qualified APS staff and ensure manageable caseloads. Federal Investment: Continued and expanded federal funding for APS is essential—not optional. Public Awareness: Communities need to understand when and how to report suspected abuse, and how they can be part of the safety net. The APS system should be a lifeline, not a last resort.
Choosing a long-term care facility for yourself or a loved one is one of the most important decisions you can make. Beyond basic safety and cleanliness, the right facility should support a person’s independence, dignity, and overall quality of life. To help you make an informed choice, here are five essential questions to ask, along with key follow-ups that can give you a deeper sense of what daily life will be like at the facility. 1. How does the facility support independence and person-centered care? Person-centered care means that residents are active participants in their care and daily routines. Ask: Can residents choose when to wake up and go to bed? Are meals and activities tailored to individual preferences? Is there flexibility for “early birds” and “night owls”? Look for signs that staff respect residents’ individuality—such as accommodating dietary preferences and encouraging participation in meaningful activities. 2. What medical and rehabilitation services are available on-site? Quality care goes beyond assistance with daily activities. Ask about: Access to hospice care and pain management Availability of wound care and ostomy specialists In-house physical, occupational, speech, and mental health therapies Staffing levels—how many nurses and aides are on duty at different times of day? These services can have a major impact on recovery, mobility, and comfort. 3. What is the atmosphere like during meals and activities? Daily life should be engaging and social. Ask to observe a meal or an activity session. Consider: Are residents out of their rooms and interacting with others? Do meals look appetizing and meet special dietary needs? Is assistance with eating provided promptly and respectfully? Also ask about field trips, volunteer involvement, and whether there is an active activities room or calendar of events. 4. What do current residents and families say about their experience? Talking to those already living in or visiting the facility can give you valuable insight. Ask residents: Do staff respond quickly when you call for help? Do you enjoy your meals and feel your privacy is respected? Are you involved in decisions about your care? Ask families: Are you promptly notified of any accidents or health changes? Do you feel comfortable raising concerns? Is there a Family Council and does the facility listen to it? 5. How transparent and responsive is the administration? A responsive leadership team is key to resolving issues and maintaining quality. When meeting with the Administrator or Director of Nursing, ask: How do you handle complaints? How are staff trained and how long do they typically stay? What’s your policy on resident rights, such as refusing treatment? You can also ask to review the admission contract, learn about costs and refund policies, and understand how care decisions are made if the resident is unable to speak for themselves. Want more questions to ask? Visit our full guide: Is This the Nursing Home to Choose? It includes detailed sections on services, nursing care, residents' rights, and conversations to have with administrators, staff, and families. At Kansas Advocates for Better Care, we believe everyone deserves compassionate, dignified, and person-centered long-term care. Asking the right questions is the first step to getting it.