PALA - Pennsylvania Assisted Living Association

06/17/2026

Today, PALA Executive Director Susan Saxinger testified at a joint informational meeting of the House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee and the House Human Services Committee on In Lieu of Services (ILOS).

ILOS represents an important step forward in expanding access to assisted living for Medicaid-eligible individuals through Pennsylvania's Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver. While the program took time to launch, it was encouraging to hear from fellow testifiers about its continued growth and the positive impact it is having during the pilot phase.

The promise of ILOS extends beyond the pilot itself. It represents an opportunity to gather the data needed to support assisted living as a permanent covered service under the CHC waiver.

At its core, this is about choice. It is about ensuring that more seniors and adults with disabilities have access to the setting that best meets their needs and allows them to live with dignity, independence, and connection to their communities.

PALA thanks Chairwoman Rep. Maureen Madden, Chairman PA State Rep. Steven Mentzer, Chairman Rep. Dan Williams, Chairman PA State Rep. Doyle Heffley and members of both committees for the opportunity to shed light on this important issue and for their leadership in strengthening Pennsylvania's long-term care system. Thank you as well to the providers, advocates, and policymakers working together to expand choice for Pennsylvanians who need long-term services and supports. We are hopeful that the continued success of ILOS will demonstrate the value of assisted living and help establish it as an essential, permanent option within the Community HealthChoices waiver.

06/15/2026

📢 Registration is open for PALA's Regional Forums!

Connect with your regional BHSL licensing team and hear from Jim Bryan on The Leadership Skill Nobody Teaches.

Learn practical strategies for addressing performance concerns, giving effective feedback, documenting interventions, and maintaining accountability while meeting regulatory requirements.

Space is limited. Register today!

Email from Pennsylvania Assisted Living Association Registration is Open: PALA Regional Forums Join us at a PALA Regional Forum this summer to stay informed, stay connected, and stay ahead. Explore th

06/11/2026

🚨 Pennsylvania lawmakers are currently negotiating the state budget, and seniors who rely on SSI need your support.

The SSI Personal Care Boarding Home Supplement has only seen one increase since 2008, while the cost of providing housing, care, and daily support in personal care homes continues to rise.

Without action, access to safe, quality care is at risk for those who depend on these essential services.

📝 As Pennsylvania lawmakers work to pass a state budget before the June 30 deadline, your voice is more important than ever. Use the link below to quickly send a message directly to your state representative and senator. It only takes a few seconds.

🙏 If you have already supported this effort, thank you! Please consider sharing this message with colleagues, friends, family members, and others who care about seniors and access to quality care. The more voices lawmakers hear, the stronger our message becomes.

Your voice matters. Your action makes a difference.

🔗https://argentum.quorum.us/campaign/158044/

06/09/2026

Yesterday, the House Aging & Older Adult Services Committee voted HB 1611 out of committee.

PALA supports efforts to strengthen protections for older adults and remains committed to policies that help prevent abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Protecting Pennsylvania seniors is a responsibility we all share.

At the same time, we have expressed concerns about provisions in HB 1611 that could create hiring challenges for personal care homes and assisted living residences at a time when providers are already facing significant workforce shortages.

As the legislative process moves forward, we look forward to continuing conversations with lawmakers and stakeholders to ensure that any changes to the Older Adult Protective Services Act (OAPSA) enhance protections for seniors while avoiding unintended consequences that could impact access to care and services.

We appreciate the opportunity to work collaboratively toward solutions that support both resident safety and a strong senior care workforce.

06/04/2026

We are proud to partner with Purple Flag!

Improving dementia care requires collaboration, education and shared responsibility. Purple Flag works alongside providers and families to promote excellence and raise awareness around quality dementia care. Together, we continue to strengthen standards for individuals living with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias.

Learn more about Purple Flag at the link in the comments.

05/29/2026

Advocacy continued today as PALA Executive Director Susan Saxinger and PALA Board Chair Ian Yannuzzi met with Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick, a longstanding supporter of senior living and older adults.

During our discussion, we shared concerns regarding H.R. 1299, the revised 21st Century Road to Housing Act. While the legislation advanced in the House, clarifying language intended to address potential unintended consequences for senior housing was not included in the final House-passed version. We emphasized the importance of ensuring future housing policies recognize and support the unique needs of senior living communities and the older adults they serve.

We appreciate Congressman Fitzpatrick's continued engagement on issues affecting senior living and his commitment to supporting older adults across Pennsylvania and beyond.

05/29/2026

Today, PALA had the pleasure of visiting member community Re*****on of Yardley, where we joined community leadership and Legend Senior Living representatives in welcoming Representative Perry Warren for an important discussion about senior living in Pennsylvania.

During the visit, we shared information about the differences between Personal Care Homes (PCHs) and Assisted Living Residences (ALRs), how communities like Re*****on of Yardley support older adults, and the critical role socialization plays in overall health and wellness.

One of the highlights of the visit was spending time with the very first resident to move into the community and hearing firsthand why he loves calling Re*****on of Yardley home. His story provided a meaningful example of how connection, engagement, and a supportive environment contribute to quality of life for older adults.

We also discussed the ongoing challenges facing older adults who choose to call a PCH or ALR home, including the lack of public funding support for these settings.

We are grateful to Representative Warren for taking the time to learn more about the services our communities provide and the issues impacting residents and providers alike.

Special thanks to Brittany Thorpe, David January, Brandon Smeltzer, and Jennifer Hull for making the visit possible and contributing to this important conversation.

05/29/2026

We are proud to welcome Groove Technology Solutions as a PALA Industry Partner! Groove Technology Solutions is a leading provider of end-to-end technology for senior living communities nationwide. The Groove Triple Win Bundle delivers a seamless resident experience while creating new recurring revenue for your property. This all-in-one solution includes DIRECTV, digital signage, internet, and phone services tailored for assisted living and senior communities. Residents enjoy reliable services at lower costs, staff gain simplified management, and operators benefit from steady revenue. Ask about exclusive discounts are available for PALA members.
Learn more at https://www.getgrooven.com.

05/28/2026

Share Your Expertise at PALA’s 2026 Fall Conference!
Do you have insights that can inspire Pennsylvania’s Personal Care and Assisted Living professionals? InspirED—the educational division of PALA—is now accepting speaker proposals for the 2026 Fall Conference, happening Oct. 28–29 at the Best Western Premier – The Central Hotel in Harrisburg.

For more information and to submit a proposal https://conta.cc/3PRR96m.

05/26/2026

Please join us in welcoming our newest industry partner to PALA! The Metiri Group helps assisted living communities protect residents, staff, and visitors through proactive water testing and monitoring programs.

Metiri's laboratories provide reliable Legionella testing designed to identify risks early—before they become serious health concerns. By combining advanced analytical capabilities using IDEXX and ELITE testing with responsive service, Metiri supports safer water systems and helps communities take informed, preventative steps that keep everyone healthy, protected, and operating with confidence.
Learn more at https://metirigroup.com.