April 28 & 29 AFH Conference
The 2026 Adult Foster Home Conference brought together providers, state representatives, healthcare professionals, industry experts, sponsors, and advocates from across Oregon for two days of education, collaboration, and meaningful discussion. While many individuals and organizations contributed to the event's success, the conference itself was made possible through the collective efforts of dedicated leaders and supporters who recognize the critical role Adult Foster Homes play in Oregon's long-term care system.
For UOPA, this conference represented something larger than a series of presentations. It was an opportunity to bring providers together, strengthen professional relationships, and create a space where important conversations could happen face-to-face.
A Conference Focused on Practical Knowledge
Attendees participated in sessions covering a wide range of topics directly impacting Adult Foster Home providers and residents. Educational presentations addressed:
- Alternative pain management strategies
- Hospital and skilled nursing facility admissions and discharges
- Emergency preparedness
- Safe body mechanics and resident transfers
- Alzheimer's resources and support
- Legal considerations including guardianships and business structures
- Compliance tools and regulatory updates
- Hospice care and medication administration
- Employee retention strategies
- Drug interactions and compounding medications
- Skin cancer awareness and body scanning
- CPR and First Aid training opportunities
The conference also provided direct access to state representatives through a dedicated Question and Answer session with State Licensing and discussions regarding evolving service tiers and case management processes. These conversations allowed providers to ask questions, share concerns, and gain a better understanding of upcoming changes affecting their businesses and the individuals they support.
Advocacy and Provider Voices
One of the highlights of the conference was the discussion surrounding legislative matters and the future of provider advocacy in Oregon. Providers had the opportunity to hear updates regarding policy issues, discuss emerging challenges, and explore ways to work collectively to strengthen services throughout the state.
For UOPA, this aligns directly with our mission: ensuring that providers have a voice in decisions that affect their homes, businesses, staff, and the people they serve.
Strong advocacy begins with strong relationships. Conferences like this help build those relationships by bringing together individuals who may otherwise never have the opportunity to collaborate in person.
More Than Education
While continuing education credits and professional development were important components of the conference, many attendees found equal value in the networking opportunities. Providers shared experiences, exchanged ideas, discussed challenges, and learned from one another.
Adult Foster Home providers often work independently and can feel isolated despite the critical services they provide. Events like this remind us that we are part of a larger community committed to improving quality of life for Oregon's seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Looking Toward the Future
An important discussion during the conference focused on whether this event should continue in future years. The overwhelming value of bringing providers together demonstrates why these gatherings matter. Education, collaboration, advocacy, and community-building are essential to maintaining a strong Adult Foster Home network throughout Oregon.
UOPA believes that provider-led conversations are more important than ever. As regulations evolve, workforce challenges continue, and care needs become increasingly complex, opportunities for providers to learn from one another and engage with policymakers will remain critical.
We extend our appreciation to the organizers, speakers, sponsors, vendors, and attendees who made this conference possible. Most importantly, we thank the Adult Foster Home providers who dedicate themselves every day to serving Oregon's most vulnerable residents.
Together, we continue building a stronger future for Adult Foster Homes and the individuals who call them home.