In its third annual Workforce 360 Survey, human capital management software company OnShift revealed workforce shortages to be the top challenge among senior care organizations. More than 2,000 industry professionals shared their perspectives on the top workforce challenges and offered insights into their efforts to improve recruitment, retention and overall employee satisfaction.
Ray Desrochers, President and COO of OnShift said in a press release:
“Post-acute care and senior living organizations are a vital part of our communities and have overcome many intense challenges over the past 18 months Caring for seniors is a noble, fulfilling and rewarding career. We have a chance to draw more people into our industry and retain our existing employees by catering to their interests and needs, providing support and offering work flexibility. As evidenced in our Workforce 360 Report, providers have many opportunities and ways to grow and strengthen employee satisfaction and engagement. OnShift is committed to supporting our clients as they simultaneously navigate a multitude of industry shifts.”
Here are some highlights:
Staffing is Biggest Challenge
Nearly 8 out of 10 respondents (79%) cited staffing shortages as the top workforce challenge
More than a third reported that this has limited their ability to take on new admissions and move-ins.
Respondents cited hospitals and health systems were cited as the top competitor (62%) for staff, followed by senior care organizations (61%), staffing agencies (55%) and home health organizations (53%).
Most respondents indicated they have expanded their recruitment efforts to non-traditional segments such as students (72%), family members of residents/ patients (34%) and retirees (28%).
Respondents reported a 71% increase in agency reliance versus the previous year.
Burnout Across the Board
Nearly 9 out of 10 respondents indicated they are experiencing burnout.
Burnout (79%) was cited as the top personal challenge facing caregivers and hourly employees today, followed by having to work multiple jobs (55%) and lack of childcare (51%).
Sixty-five percent of providers are struggling to effectively manage employee burnout.
Competition for talent outside the industry rose 81% from the previous year—from segments such as hotels, restaurants, retail and gig economy services
Retention Strategies
The vast majority of respondents are placing a high priority on employee engagement and retention (83%) going into 2022 and 15% said engagement and retention is somewhat of a priority for their organization.
Respondents believe increases in pay/wages (82%), increases in staffing levels (65%), improved communication with staff members (51%) and more frequent recognition for work contributions (48%) could have the biggest impact when it comes to improving staff satisfaction.
Senior living providers are offering or planning to offer perks such as bonus pay for working difficult shifts (64%), sign-on/retention bonuses (56%), a rewards and recognition program (49%), tuition assistance (44%), complimentary meals (41%) and more flexible work schedules (37%).
Download the Senior Care Workforce Survey | OnShift 2021