Is there a way to create actions or macros that can universally change photos in an album?

Elements+ has a batch-processing tool:

https://elementsplus.net/help/en/batch.htm

 Also, it includes a macro recording feature (Windows-only):

https://elementsplus.net/help/en/macros.htm

In Elements 2024, you can use the Organizer's Instant Fix editor to batch process your files.  There is a one-click Smart Fix.  You can also use the Clarity adjustment for sharpening.  See the user manual for more details.

For more sophisticated batch editing, you can use the Adobe Camera Raw editor.   See my post here for batch editing raw files. 

Added:  You can also use Adobe Camera Raw to batch edit jpegs by opening the files from the Editor's  File>Open in Camera Raw dialog.

Actions are recorded, and created in Photoshop.   You can allways batch process a set of images-   there are quick fixes available , to include resizing. 

Adobe action files have the ATN extension- you can find any number of actions, free ones, online.   A WORD OF CAUTION:  When you play the action it will stop when it gets to a feature that PSE does not have.

It depends on what kind of changes you want to make (and which version of Elements you are using).