Home Care Industry

Original Airdate: November 1, 2005
In-home care can have a dramatic impact on the quality of life for the elderly. So, it's no surprise that the demand for in-home care professionals is at an all-time high. And, as the baby boom generation ages, more workers will be required in this field. In New Hampshire, it's estimated that 80% of home care services are delivered by nursing assistants and home companions. In this edition of NH Outlook's continuing series Seeing Seniors, we examine some of the issues facing the home care industry, including low wages and high turnover. Chip Neal introduces us to William Poe, now in his 90's and living in a Nashua retirement community. We'll see how in-home assistance helps him keep his independence and preserve his quality of life. Chip's report is followed by an in-studio discussion. Scheduled guests include Terry Lochhead of Project Leads; Susan Young, Executive Director of the Home Care Association of NH; Rebecca Hutchinson, President Quality Care Partners, a home health agency in Manchester; and Jennifer Craigue, a direct care provider.