Help Wanted! Addressing Staffing Shortages in Long-Term Care
In my journey through the realm of long-term care, especially coming in after the aftermath of COVID-19, I’ve gained profound insights into the challenges faced by residents, families, and staff. It’s become glaringly clear that while the average age of residents hasn’t shifted significantly, their care needs have escalated dramatically. The residents I encounter are not only older—they’re frailer, more complex, and increasingly dependent on assistance.
This situation has placed immense pressure on our already strained frontline staff. Personal Support Workers (PSWs) and nurses strive to provide the best care possible, yet the resources haven’t kept pace with the growing demands of residents. Many individuals are entering long-term care after lengthy hospital stays, often arriving sicker and with fewer support systems in place. As a result, we see an alarming increase in the number of residents requiring full assistance with basic daily tasks such as eating, toileting, mobility, and even repositioning.
The reality is that the care provided often feels rushed. Time is a luxury that is in short supply. I’ve noticed that when care is delayed, it’s not typically due to neglect; rather, it stems from the overwhelming pressure created by staffing shortages. When support staff are stretched thin, those small, significant moments of human connection and dignity can slip through the cracks. Whether it’s being assisted to the bathroom in a timely manner or receiving a kind word, these moments matter immensely. I’ve witnessed the impact firsthand: a PSW who is exhausted may inadvertently speak with an edge, reflecting their own fatigue rather than a lack of compassion.
That’s why I believe the staffing shortages in long-term care represent the missing link in the quality of care we strive to provide. The dedicated staff who show up every day truly care about their residents, yet they are continually overwhelmed. With the constant demands and challenges of their roles, many find themselves working longer shifts, overtime, and often feeling burnt out. This cycle leads to hesitancy in asking for help—not just from staff but from residents themselves. It’s disheartening that our dignity can feel contingent on how busy a shift is, with social connections and emotional support often becoming the first casualties when staffing is tight. As one resident stated “I am always alone” as he is one of the causalities.
From my perspective, I see the toll this environment takes on staff members with burnout, injuries, and high turnover rates. Staff often apologize for delays or shortcomings, yet they shouldn’t feel the need to. The root issue lies not in the dedication of these workers but in systemic problems like inadequate hiring processes and persistent staff shortages. We need more PSWs in the field to meet our residents’ growing needs effectively.
Moreover, the growing complexity of care required for newer residents—with increased physical and neurological care needs—demands more time and attention. Long-term care today operates within a high-complexity environment, yet the staffing and resources remain stubbornly stagnant. This widening gap between the care required and the care available is alarming.
I want to stress that this is not about placing blame on staff. Instead, it’s about aligning staffing with the reality of today’s care demands. You cannot expect two staff members to properly care for 28 residents, all with complex needs. Caring for individuals with dignity and fostering human connections require time—and right now, time is the scarcest resource in long-term care.
Residents are not seeking perfection; they are asking for enough staff, adequate time, and sufficient support so that their care can transcend mere survival. It’s time for us to shine a light on these issues and advocate for meaningful change in long-term care. We all deserve a system that prioritizes the dignity and quality of life for its residents. Let’s work towards creating a care environment where every moment counts.
If you agree we need more hands to care for our older adults, you can contact the Ministry of Long – Term Care here:
Sharron Clayton is a seasoned communications and marketing professional with a diverse career spanning several industries.
You also pay premium room & board to have adequate staffing. Where’s that nursing shortage money going? (they’re taking it from you each month).
There needs to a better system for shortages – more disciplinary actions and accountability. Terminate the ones that don’t want to be there, and hire ones that appreciate the job and residents.
There is no denying it that the system is broken. I agree that there needs to be some accountability both with management and staff.