Compiling Data of Workforce Policies: A Data Compendium About Direct Care Workers Caring for People With Dementia

Direct care workers in long-term care settings are essential to provide care for older adults and people with disabilities who have daily needs. There is an increasing demand for an adequately sized and well-prepared direct care workforce to support people living with dementia due to its rising prevalence. However, a lack of standardized policies and data leaves researchers and policymakers with little evidence to guide the development and refinement of workforce policies. The National Institute on Aging–funded Advancing Workforce Analysis and Research for Dementia Network is developing a compendium of policies and programs related to the demand, supply, working conditions, and skills of direct care workers, including dementia care–related attributes.