ABSTRACT
To create a strong long-term care system for rural older people, policymakers and industry leaders must strengthen the direct care workforce through multiple public policy and workforce interventions that are rooted in research and endorsed by an educated and engaged public. Four major challenges facing workforce are described-low compensation, inadequate training, limited career advancement, and a strained system worsened by high turnover-as well as a review of the unique workforce considerations in rural areas. Finally, a structural approach is proposed for improving direct care jobs in rural areas through policy reforms, workforce interventions, research, and public education. To address the challenges facing the direct care workforce in rural communities, four key areas must be addressed: policy reforms, workforce interventions, research, and public education. Public education campaigns can help raise awareness about the direct care workforce and the needs of rural residents.
