Waiting for Help:
Shortage of Home Care Workers Leaves Older Americans Waiting for Assistance

The American population is aging. According to the Census bureau, by 2060, the number of Americans ages 65 and older will nearly double — from 52 million in 2018 to a whopping 95 million by 2060. 

In New York, older individuals with ages 65 and older, make up about 13% of the population. NYC Health reports that New Yorkers are living longer and the number of older individuals in the city is expected to exceed 1.4 million by 2040 — a growth of 41% from 2010. 

As more Americans age, the need for regular home care assistance is all the more highlighted. However, the aging population is battling a crisis that leaves them vulnerable and waiting for assistance — a shortage of home care workers.

“Before our latest client reached out to us, she has been awaiting home care assistance for close to two months,” remarked Bryan Estranero, PSS Home Care’s Business Development Manager. “For the past several weeks, she’s been living alone with no home care help. Some helpful neighbors helped her with groceries and lawnwork, but she hasn’t been able to do other activities such as bathing, doctor’s appointments, and running errands.” 

The shortage of home health aides is a major blow to the lives of older individuals all over the country. In order to keep living independent and fulfilled lives at the comfort of their homes, older adults need to have the assistance that they require — such as cooking meals or going to doctor’s appointments. 

“The shortage of home care workers couldn’t have come at a worse possible time — the pandemic is making the lives of older individuals even more challenging than ever. Home health aides provide critical support; they provide assistance with older individuals’ daily needs and help keep them protected against Covid-19,” remarked Bryan. 

The short supply of home care workers might prompt older individuals or their loved ones to opt for nursing homes instead of at-home care. Unfortunately, reports have shown concerns in nursing home environments that include extreme weight loss, dehydration, untreated bedsores, inadequate hygiene, and mental and physical decline. 

These kinds of environments put older individuals at risk for elder abuse. In a report, 92.2 per 1,000 older adults ages 60 and older in New York City experienced abuse.