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 (97% said their participation increased the likelihood that they will remain in the field of direct care and 96% said their participation increased the likelihood that they will remain with their current employer). Thank you!

Mission: To enhance the care and support of Iowans by providing education, research, recognition, and advocacy for those who provide direct care. Iowa CareGivers is a unique, independent, nonprofit, and nonpartisan organization that has served the needs of those in direct care for more than 30 years.