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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Peri Rosenfeld, PhD, Division of Health Policy/Center for Aging Policy, The New York Academy of Medicine, 1216 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10029-5202, 212-419-3536, prosenfeld@nyam.org

Attempts to alleviate the current nursing shortage must address several demographic and labor trends: the nursing supply is aging and the documented decrease in labor participation among nurses (and all women workers) at age 55 and over. Targeted efforts to retain older, experienced nurses have been meager and no attention has been paid to role of elder caregiving (e.g. care of spouse or parent) in older nurses' decisions to leave the profession. This pilot study examines how current workplace practices may contribute to early withdrawal of older nurses from the workforce, particularly from hospitals where shortages are most severe. Recent research with working parents found that “family friendly” workplace practices result is positive outcomes, such as decreased absenteeism and lower turnover. However, comparable “caregiver friendly” practices for middle-aged working elder-caregivers are just beginning to emerge. Interviews with 28 registered nurses and assistive nursing personnel at a New York hospital aged 50 years or older with caregiving responsibilities were conducted. Results of the study found that successful management of dual roles rests on ability to identify workplace opportunities, e.g. transferring to units and shifts that suit their needs, and erecting clear boundaries between home and work. Respondents reported that insensitive and inflexible workplace practices cause them to consider early retirement and recommend “caregiver-friendly” practices such as creative scheduling, access to services (e.g social workers and lawyers) and increased awareness among managers about the challenges they face. Study findings are germane to other occupational groups, particularly those that are female-dominated.

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of the session, the attendee will be able to
• Explain the demographic and labor force trends associated with an aging workforce.
• Desribe the implications of an aging workforce on the nursing profession.
• Understand the importance of "caregiving friendly" workplace practices on retaining older women in nursing and other female-dominated occupations.

Awards: Aetna Susan B. Anthony Award for Excellence in Research on Older Women and Public Health - Honorable Mention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation