Industry at a Glance
The nursing home industry is one of America's fastest growing industries. According to the CDC, the numbers tell a compelling story about the scale and importance of long-term care in the United States.
16,100+
Nursing Homes in the U.S.
1.7M
Licensed Beds Nationwide
86%
Average Occupancy Rate
892 days
Average Length of Stay
It is predicted that by 2020, 12 million Americans will need long-term care. The "Baby Boomer" population began turning 65 in 2011 and currently makes up about 20% of the population — with the last boomers turning 65 in 2029. The long-term care industry will face new challenges and significant growth over the next decade.
The Nursing Home Workforce
In over 16,000 nursing homes across the country, there are approximately 1.8 million workers. Each facility is required to maintain a professionally trained staff to provide quality care to this special population:
The Typical Nursing Home Resident
- 1
A widowed, separated, or divorced woman in her mid-80s, showing mild forms of memory loss and dementia — still physically healthy but needing help with about 4 of 5 activities of daily living (eating, dressing, bathing, transferring and mobility, and toileting).
- 2
Has 3–5 medical diagnoses.
- 3
Takes 9 medications — 6.7 routine prescription medications per day and 2.7 additional medications on an "as needed" basis.
- 4
Commonly prescribed medications include gastrointestinal agents, analgesics, cardiovascular medications, vitamins and supplements, and psychoactive medications.
- 5
Most recently in a hospital before entering a nursing home.
- 6
Received one of the leading admission diagnoses including heart disease, mental disorders, and injuries.
- 7
Cognitive impairment and mental disorders are the most common conditions in nursing home residents.
Knowing these facts, it is easy to recognize the need for continual training and resources for the long-term care professional. Return to our site for updates on information to assist with the training of facility staff and other helpful information.
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