The training our new staff members get is superior, and the recognition they receive from Heritage for the excellent jobs they do is rewarding. But at the end of the day, they have to make a decent living, many of whom have families to support. Many choose to move on to other opportunities because no matter how high in the organization one can rise, the financial aspect is still poor in comparison to other positions they are capable of attaining. We go to our state capitol every legislative day each year to advocate for the appropriate funding of our direct care professionals and the situation has improved somewhat. But there is still much work to be done.

I see such a carry-over to the nursing home situation with those direct care workers. My mother is in one of the best skilled nursing facilities in Rochester, and yet I see those aides in that situation looking burned out, disrespected, and ready to leave for “greener pastures.” The turnover rate is unbelievable…my mother comments on how frequently she sees new faces, and yet most of these aides say that this is the best nursing home to find work in.