The population in the U.S. is aging rapidly, with one in every five residents expected to reach retirement age by 2030. This demographic shift is significantly impacting the healthcare landscape, especially in home health care. As more people live longer, the demand for home health aides—those who provide essential care in patients’ homes—is increasing.
Despite the attractiveness of the profession due to its relatively low entry barriers, turnover among home health aides remains a significant challenge. Home Health Care News reports that while the median caregiver turnover rate dropped to 64.3% in 2019 from 82% in 2018, turnover remains a concern for home health administrators. This highlights the importance of hiring employees who are dedicated to their work and the patients they serve.
However, hiring great home health aides requires more than just collecting applications. Administrators must create a welcoming, healthy workplace environment to attract and retain top talent. With a solid understanding of the current home health landscape and innovative recruitment and retention strategies, employers can set themselves up for long-term success.
The Current Home Health Landscape
As the aging population grows, so does the desire to age in place. Approximately 82% of the G.I. generation and 78% of baby boomers consider aging in place a goal, increasing the demand for qualified home health professionals.
To meet this demand, the home health industry is expanding rapidly. Currently, 3.4 million employees work as home health aides and personal care aides, with 2.4 million working in private homes.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that home health and personal care aide occupations will grow by 33.7% between 2019 and 2029, making it the sixth highest-growth occupation group. Additionally, home health care expenditures are expected to rise from $108.9 billion in 2019 to $201.3 billion in 2028, reflecting the industry’s growth to meet current trends and demographic shifts.
What To Look for in a Home Health Aide
Before hiring home health aides, administrators must identify the qualities and qualifications needed for the role, including:
- Communication Skills: Home health aides must effectively communicate daily routines, changes in a patient’s condition, and adjustments to care plans.
- Empathy: Empathy helps caregivers develop meaningful relationships with patients.
- Patience: Home health aides must remain calm and focused when faced with challenges.
- High Physical Functioning: Aides must have the physical strength to assist patients with daily tasks.
- Expertise and Credentials: Aides must have the required certifications and training.
- Experience: Previous caregiving or medical experience is beneficial.
How to Find and Hire a Home Health Worker
To attract top talent, administrators should offer competitive wages and benefits, such as health insurance, paid sick days, and a 401K plan. Providing a healthy work-life balance is also crucial.
Job postings should be clear and specific, outlining responsibilities, qualifications, and salary range. Posting on reputable recruiting sites, social media, and the organization’s website can attract quality candidates. Personal recommendations also play a significant role in hiring.
During the interview process, administrators should assess a candidate’s hard and soft skills, as well as their ability to work well with different personalities, communicate professionally, make sound decisions, navigate ethical dilemmas, and advocate for patients.
After hiring, onboarding should be personalized to help new hires understand company expectations and culture. Continued job success can be promoted through regular meetings, coaching, recognition, and feedback. Providing educational opportunities encourages professional growth and increases employee engagement and retention.
In conclusion, hiring the best home health aides requires careful planning and a focus on creating a supportive work environment. By following these steps, administrators can attract and retain top talent, providing high-quality care for their patients.
