Immigrants Comprise 25% of Senior Housing Workforce Amidst Critical Staffing Shortages

Washington D.C. – A recent statement by Joe Pohlen highlighted that approximately 25% of the workers in senior housing were born outside the United States, underscoring the significant role foreign-born individuals play in a sector grappling with severe labor shortages. This figure aligns closely with recent data indicating that immigrants constitute 24% of the workforce in residential care settings and 28% of the overall direct long-term care workforce. The tweet by Joe Pohlen brings attention to the demographic realities shaping the care industry.

The U.S. senior care sector faces a deepening workforce crisis, with projections indicating a substantial increase in demand for care services as the population ages. By 2030, one in five Americans will be 65 or older, a demographic shift that necessitates a robust care infrastructure. Organizations like LeadingAge reported in 2023 that 92% of nursing home members and 70% of assisted living providers experienced significant workforce shortages.

Foreign-born workers are crucial in mitigating these shortages, often filling demanding direct care roles such as home health aides, personal care aides, and nursing assistants. These positions are vital for assisting older adults with daily living activities and maintaining quality of life. The reliance on immigrant labor is further emphasized by studies showing that the number of U.S.-born certified nursing assistants (CNAs) has declined, while the foreign-born CNA workforce has remained relatively stable, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The presence of immigrant workers has also been linked to improved care outcomes. Research indicates that nursing homes in regions with a higher share of immigrant CNAs are associated with more direct care staff hours per resident and better quality performance. This suggests that immigrant labor not only addresses staffing gaps but also contributes positively to the standard of care provided to seniors.

Despite their critical contribution, the future availability of this workforce could be impacted by evolving immigration policies. Industry leaders and experts advocate for policies that expand immigration pathways to ensure a stable and sufficient workforce for the growing needs of the elderly population. Without a consistent influx of these workers, the existing care shortages are likely to worsen, potentially compromising access to and quality of senior care across the nation.