Press Release: Addressing the Challenges in Assisted Living and Long-Term Care
Madison, WI – In her forthcoming book, "DisElderly Conduct: The Flawed Business of Assisted Living and Hospice," Judy Karofsky, a former mayor and advocate for senior care, unveils the pressing issues plaguing the assisted living industry. Her insights stem from a decade-long journey witnessing the dramatic shifts in the seniors housing sector.
In 2007, Karofsky began collaborating on a research paper exploring institutional investments in senior housing, only to find herself deeply intertwined in the realities of assisted living by 2018. The publication highlighted the increasing demand for elderly housing, driven by demographic changes and an aging population. Despite the expected growth, the sector faced significant challenges, particularly during and after the Great Recession.
By 2018, as Karofsky navigated her mother’s experience in assisted living, she noted a stark contrast: the number of assisted living facilities had surged while skilled nursing homes dwindled, largely due to rising operational costs and regulatory hurdles. This shift appeared to attract investment, as assisted living became more appealing due to fewer federal oversights and the ability to hire Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) over licensed nurses.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic revealed deep-rooted vulnerabilities in the industry, exacerbating staffing shortages and exposing the need for substantial reforms. With a recent study highlighting a staggering staff vacancy rate of 30% in some providers, the crisis demands immediate attention to ensure quality care.
Karofsky calls for a national dialogue on these critical issues, championing for better oversight, affordability, and a systematic approach to care. "Our aging population deserves dignified, compassionate care," she stated. This is a rallying cry for all stakeholders to reimagine assisted living as a community-focused sector prioritizing the wellbeing of its residents.
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