When Caregivers Become Care Receivers

Project Description

Burnout among direct care workers (DCWs) such as certified nurse aides and home care aides is at an all-time high and made worse by the recent pandemic. One nurse aide experienced the death of more than 30 nursing home residents in one month and as a result was treated for post-traumatic stress disorder. Short-staffing, high staff turnover rates, low wages, and overall working conditions contribute to burnout. Without DCWs Iowans do not receive the care and support they need no matter where those served reside… home, facility, group home, hospital, or other location. Family caregivers who provide the lion’s share of care to their family, friends, and neighbors are also experiencing burnout. Without the backup of DCWs, family caregivers who are employed are sometimes forced to cut back their hours or give up employment putting their own financial security at risk.

With your support, a Reservoir Replenishing Self-Care Retreat will be held at Des Moines Area Community College. It is a one-day event that will focus on DCWs’ and family caregivers’ mental, physical, spiritual, emotional, and financial well-being. 200 DCWs participated in 4 pilot retreats. The annual turnover rate of Certified Nursing Assistants in nursing homes in 2024 was 77%. The high turnover diminishes the quality of care and is another reason why the retreats that help keep people in the field are so vital. 97% said they are more likely to remain in the field of direct care and 96% are more likely to remain with their current employer because of their participation in the retreats.

The 4 pilot retreats were made possible through a private donation by Chuck and Kathy Safris, and a Telligen Community Initiative grant.