As the “baby boomer” population in the United States ages, the need for additional nurse aides is something that cannot be ignored. The Census Bureau projects that by 2030 there will be over 70 million Americans aged 65 and older, more that twice their number in 1995. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the overall number of nurse aide jobs is projected to grow an additional 36% — from 2.1 million to 2.9 million jobs.
Further, experts project there will be a demand for nearly 1 million more of these workers in the next decade, and perhaps a total of 3 million more by 2030 — when all surviving members of the 78-million-strong boomer generation are older than 65. Attracting and retaining quality nurse aides will become an even greater focus for most healthcare organizations. One way you can do that is via a high-caliber continuing education program that helps your CNAs prepare for the demands of their jobs.
The consequences of ill-trained and overburdened nurse aides can be costly and painful to a healthcare organization. A quality education program, attracts, retains and empowers your nurse aides to put their best foot forward everyday. After all, knowledge is power! And, the more your CNAs know, the more they can achieve.
The numbers are dramatic. An older population means more people with health and personal care needs and greater use of health and long-term care services. Are your nurse aides ready? How is your organization preparing for the aging baby boomers? We would love to hear from you! Any tips or suggestions are highly encouraged and much appreciated!
Please add your comments to this blog or simply email me at mariaeaston@knowingmore.com. Thanks!
