The first in a three-part series focusing on racial and ethnic disparities within the direct care workforce, this research brief takes a closer look at the demographics and job realities of Black/African American direct care workers. By highlighting the inequalities these workers experience, this brief emphasizes the importance of integrating race-explicit strategies into all aspects of workforce development in long-term care, from recruitment through training and employment supports—in order to stabilize the workforce and ensure that care is available for the growing numbers of older adults and people with disabilities.
Key Takeaways
There are over one million Black/African American direct care workers—one-third of the total direct care workforce.
Most Black/African American direct care workers have less formal education than their white peers.
Addressing the racial disparities facing Black/African American direct care workers will lead to stable, high-quality care.
