Too many people still are forced into nursing homes in spite of the fact that those who need long-term service and supports can better maintain their independence and dignity receiving home and community-based services. The Supreme Court's 1999 Olmstead Ruling has ultimately required states to choose between operating state programs in ways that allow people with disabilities to remain integrated in their communities or face legal challenges. However, in spite of much post-Olmstead progress, there are still challenges to reducing unnecessary institutionalizations.

The National Senior Citizens Law Center has published a new report, "10-Plus Years After the Olmstead Ruling: Progress, Problems, and Opportunities." The report chronicles the advancements made in the availability of community-based service options in the aftermath of the Olmstead decision, and identifies many of the barriers that remain and opportunities for overcoming them. On October 28th, 2010, NSCLC will present a webinar that will provide an overview of the report.