HCBS News 2026August7

Senators Introduce Older Adult Home Modification Tax Credit Bill

On August 3, LeadingAge supported the introduction of the "Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit Act of 2026" by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY). Similar to LeadingAge-supported legislation introduced by Congressman George Latimer (D-NY), the bill would create a new, non-refundable tax credit for older adult homeowners or renters to make age-friendly home modifications to their homes. The tax credit would apply to expenses made by taxpayers aged 60 or older to modify their principal or secondary residence to age in place, with a limit of $10,000 annually. Qualifying expenses include labor costs and materials related to the installation of wheelchair ramps and handrails, doorway widening, installing tub cuts or shower seats, and more. In a statement of support, Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO of LeadingAge, said: "The opportunity to age in community is critical for America’s older adults to thrive. But too many are not able to do so because of housing that cannot accommodate their needs. Less than five percent of the nation’s homes are accessible to households with even moderate mobility limitations at a time when, due to our country’s rapidly aging population, America desperately needs more age-friendly housing. LeadingAge applauds Senators Alsobrooks and Gillibrand, along with Congressman Latimer, for recognizing this. As the trusted voice for aging, LeadingAge supports the Senior Accessible Housing Tax Credit, which is an important step toward ensuring older adults can make the home modifications they need to live independently for longer."

Announcing LeadingAge Clinical Procedure Manual, 23rd Edition!

Newly updated in 2026, more than 300 clinical procedures to ensure high-quality and consistent care delivery. The LeadingAge Clinical Procedure Manual (CPM) is a must-have tool for providers committed to ensuring high quality care. Procedures are the backbone of clinical practice. Providers can use the CPM to ensure they are performed with reliable consistency by every clinician, every time. From activities of daily living to clinical tasks to safety and wound care, the manual covers a wide range of procedures that home and community-based and other providers deliver every day. Members receive a 30% discount. Read more about the manual including a list of procedures and a sample chapter here.

CPR for ALL Direct Care Staff:

A new waiver requirement for all HCBS providers has gone into effect on July 1st. There is a 60 day grace period for providers to have all staff trained in CPR, First Aid and one hour of abuse/neglect training. This is a significant departure from what ALF providers have been doing. While it is not a requirement to perform CPR on a waiver resident, it is a Medicaid requirement for all staff to be trained to do so. If you are in need of resources in your area to complete this training, please reach out to LeadingAge Nebraska or DHHS for assistance.