The U.S. elections are now less than a week away. It’s a time for looking to the future—and placing trust in candidates who we think will best represent our needs going forward.
As our nation decides on a new federal administration and a new Congress, we will rely upon our newly elected officials to implement concrete solutions to our growing collective need for care.
The U.S. population of older adults is projected to increase to 88.8 million by 2060—creating ever-increasing demand for direct care workers. Meeting that demand will require stronger leadership than ever. The stakes have never been higher.
Let’s call on our candidates and elected officials to:
Invest in Quality Jobs: According to a recent PHI analysis, the median hourly wage for all direct care workers is less than $17.00. Combined with high rates of part-time work and unstable schedules, low wages result in median annual earnings of just $25,015 for this workforce—which is predominantly women, specifically women of color. Direct care workers must be fairly compensated for their essential contributions as a matter of social justice—and to address significant, growing pressures on workforce recruitment and retention.
Build Care Infrastructure: Between 2022 and 2032, nearly 900,000 new direct care jobs will be needed. When considering replacements as current workers leave the field, our country will see 8.9 million total job openings in direct care in the same timeframe. We need leaders who are prepared to change the paradigm to fill these jobs and secure the care needed by millions of older adults and people with disabilities.
Support Families: Direct care workers provide families with support and respite, helping them maintain their health, well-being, and labor-force participation. At every level of government and across the private sector, the United States has committed to supporting family caregivers. Leaders must realize this commitment, in part, by strengthening the direct care workforce.
Strengthen the Economy: Comprising more than 5 million jobs today, the direct care workforce represents the largest U.S. occupation, with the most anticipated growth into the future. Yet nearly half (49%) of this workforce relies upon some form of public assistance. Investing in direct care wages and job quality is vital to workforce development. It will reduce pressure on Medicaid and other public programs and enhance consumer spending, thereby benefitting our nation’s economy overall.
As countries around the world face aging demographics and a growing demand for care, the next administration will have an opportunity to demonstrate innovation and leadership … or fall further behind.
The bottom line: whether your priority focus as a voter is on care for older adults and people with disabilities, workforce development, the care economy, the economy in general, or equity issues, choose candidates who understand the vital importance of the direct care workforce. From any angle, investing in this workforce must be a priority. As we vote this Election Day, our country will be best served going forward if we focus on care.
Ben Freeman is vice president of Partnerships and Engagement at PHI in New York.
Photo credit: Josep Suria
