Free training, job support offers entry level opportunities into healthcare fields.
By W. Mark Clark, President and CEO, Pima Council on Aging and PimaCare at Home
The aging population is growing rapidly. The U.S. Census Bureau projects a significant increase in the population of individuals older than age 65, from 56.1 million to 94.7 million by 2060. This demographic shift, coupled with the fact that the population of adults between ages 18 and 64 is expected to remain the same, highlights the increasing ratio of older adults to working-age individuals.
The direct care workforce is anticipated to have the largest growth among all job sectors in the country, according to the United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona. Over 1 million jobs are expected to be added to the homecare industry between now and 2028, thanks to a projected significant increase in the nation’s aging population.
Pima Council on Aging (PCOA), Pima County’s leading experts on aging well, advocacy, and unbiased information for older people and their families, is working to expand the local direct care workforce by partnering with United Way to break down barriers preventing individuals from getting into the field.
Q: Why is the demand for direct care workers in the United States so significant?
The demand for direct care workers in the U.S. is driven by several factors. Currently, 15 million adults living at home require some degree of personal assistance, and it is projected that 70% of older adults will eventually need in-home assistance. In-home care is not only the most preferred form of care to preserve dignity in aging, but also the most cost-effective compared to institutional care.
However, while the aging population skyrockets, the population of adults aged 18-64 is expected to remain the same. This will drop the ratio of younger adults to older adults from 30:1 down to 12:1, according to the US Census Bureau.
Q: What is the role of direct care workers in Arizona, particularly those who care for older adults?
Direct care workers in Arizona play a crucial role in providing care to the state’s aging population. With 18.5% of Arizona’s population being older than age 65, the demand for caregivers is substantial. Many direct care workers come from backgrounds of caring for children or family members at home, showcasing the importance of their role in supporting older adults.
Q: Why is there a shortage of direct care workers in Arizona? What opportunities exist for direct care workers locally?
The shortage of direct care workers in Arizona is largely attributed to a lack of understanding about how to enter the field and develop a career path in direct care work. Many individuals may not be aware of the steps to pursue a career in this sector, or the opportunities that come with it — such as an entry to a career path in healthcare, and the satisfaction of building relationships with clients. Addressing this lack of awareness is crucial to meeting the growing demand for direct care workers.
The demand for direct care workers is on the rise, driven by demographic shifts, a preference for in-home care, and the increasing need for assistance among older adults. Addressing the shortage in this workforce requires a concerted effort to raise awareness about career opportunities in direct care and recognize the vital role these workers play in supporting individuals with diverse care needs.
Q: What type of person succeeds as a direct care worker in Arizona, and what do they find most rewarding about their job?
PCOA has found that many direct care workers have a background of caring for children or family members at home, which helps them find satisfaction in providing care for an older adult.
According to the Arizona Direct Care Worker Survey, 8 out of 10 direct care workers in Arizona cite their clients as the favorite part of their job. This highlights the human connection and the sense of fulfillment that comes from providing care. Such motivation is essential for sustaining a dedicated and compassionate direct care workforce.
Q: If a person is interested in learning more or their ready to make a career change, where do they go to do so?
For people interesting in entering into the direct care workforce, PCOA and United Way provide free training, job placement assistance and continued guidance to build the workforce caring for Arizona’s aging population and help individuals find a rewarding and successful career in direct care work.
To learn more, visit directcarejobsaz.org to learn more and get started on a new career today!
