A large majority who have left the workforce are older Americans. Can senior living operators tap into this pool of potential future job seekers?
Individuals have left the workforce for a myriad of reasons since the start of the pandemic. Some due to layoff, health concerns, child care, or any number of other personal reasons. However, among those who have left and are not returning, no group is larger than older Americans who chose early retirement.
Nearly 70% of the 5 million people who left the labor force during the pandemic are older than 55.… CNN Business reports
The impact has senior living operators struggling to find staff. Older workers have left the workforce in large numbers and so have women. As a result, senior living operators have even less of a workforce pool from which to choose.
With a shrunken labor pool, senior living operators are faced with a strong competitive labor market. Organizations across industries are in the same boat. Many which are adjusting wages, offering sign on bonuses, adapting to flexible schedules and much more to compete.
Can operators attract older adults back into the workforce?
Some older Americans may not be set on sticking to early retirement. Economists believe there are some early signs of older Americans coming back to work. As vaccination protections from severe illness continue to show promise, early retiree’s may find interest in returning sooner than later.
There is a large number of retirees who find a need for supplemental income that may come in the form of part-time work. These potential workers, typically live close by and are willing to work in positions such as servers, caregivers, housekeepers, receptionist, drivers and more.
If operators are able to target and attract these potential job seekers, the opportunity to fill much needed positions could bring great relief to communities.
Communities are required to have infection control protocols not only to protect residents but also to protect employees. Messaging around safety in the workplace may have an impact attracting older Americans back into the workforce.
From all that senior living operators have endured throughout this pandemic, it is clear, the people who work day in and day out in the communities are the key to success for any organization. Senior Living is a place for natural diversity and inclusion for all.
