By Kindel Holloman, Marketing Manager The 2026 Home and Community-Based Services Conference, held August 23-27, 2026, at the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront in Baltimore, Maryland, brought together policymakers, program administrators, providers, and advocates to share ideas, discuss emerging trends, and identify ways to strengthen home- and community-based services (HCBS) across the country. The sessions covered a wide range of topics, but several themes surfaced repeatedly. Together, they pointed to five useful questions for understanding the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of HCBS. 1. How can states meet growing HCBS demand with a limited workforce? The long-term success of home- and community-based services depends on a stable, skilled, and well-supported direct care workforce. Throughout the conference, discussions focused on moving beyond short-term staffing challenges and developing sustainable workforce strategies that address recruitment, retention, training, career advancement, and leadership development. Speakers highlighted efforts by states, providers, and managed care organizations to strengthen workforce pipelines while preparing for increased demand driven by demographic changes and growing service needs. Many also emphasized that retaining experienced workers requires more than competitive wages and training opportunities. Flexible schedules, compressed workweeks, and work-from-home arrangements, when appropriate, were frequently discussed as ways to help employees balance work and caregiving responsibilities. A clear theme emerged: workforce sustainability depends on a growing understanding that retaining experienced workers requires policies that support employees both on and off the job. Without that support, workforce gains can be difficult to sustain. 2. How can states better recognize, support, and sustain family caregivers so individuals can remain in their homes and communities? Family caregivers play a vital role in helping in