The Case of the Missing Wages and Benefits

2 Responses to “The Case of the Missing Wages and Benefits”

1. Tracy says:

   March 20, 2009 at 11:42 am

   I am a direct care worker and can tell you Candace Howe’s remarks proved true for me. I worked at a nursing home and made a fair wage. The health insurance was very good. (I needed insurance with three insulin dependent diabetics in my family, and a disabled husband) It was one of the reasons I stayed there. I left because I was working in three departments and it became to much for me. The relationships I built with the residents and having health insurance was the reason I stuck it out so long.
2. bsiljander says:

   March 23, 2009 at 9:44 am

   Weighing in on the research findings stated in this video from a direct care worker perspective, this is absolutely right. From a very practical standpoint, we direct care workers must be paid enough to continue in this work. Without a livable wage, we are forced to look for other options, though we may be dedicated staff. This is very challenging, but highly rewarding work. The rewarding piece is what often keeps people in the workforce when they are struggling to survive in their own daily lives. With a wage we support ourselves on, some of the very big strains on this workforce can be alleviated, leading to a more sustainable and robust workforce that is healthy enough to provide for all Americans who need direct care and support services. I greatly appreciate the collaborative efforts between the Direct Care Alliance and the researchers and economists. The data plus the anecdotal evidence from workers is very powerful and can influence policy.