This report outlines the case for improving jobs for certified nursing assistants, a workforce totaling 650,000 people that allows nursing home residents to live with dignity and as much independence as possible. The report argues that the low quality of nursing assistant jobs — which are characterized by low pay, poor benefits, erratic scheduling, and little advancement opportunity — has an adverse effect on the quality of nursing home care. It suggests numerous ways to improve these jobs, thereby improving care for nursing home residents across the country.
Key Takeaways
Nearly half of nursing assistants live in households earning less than 200 percent of the federal poverty level.
Each day nearly 650,000 nursing assistants go to work in nursing homes where they attend to the needs of people who need assistance with daily living.
Investments in our nation’s nursing assistant workforce are ever more critical as the number of older adults surges.
