California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform is a nonprofit that works tirelessly to address problems in long term care homes. They are legislative advocates and a helpful resource for families and lawyers alike. Here is a copy of a bit from their newsletter about caregivers. There is already a serious caregiver shortage. It is worsening with immigration restrictions. Many caregivers in nursing homes are foreign born. See a bit of the shortage problem here, directly copied from CANHR's newsletter:
Latest Nursing Home Staffing Data Reveal Serious Shortfalls
National nursing home staffing data for the 2nd quarter of 2025 reveal that on average, nursing homes provided only 3. 78 total nurse staff hours per resident day when 4. 95 hours were needed. The data also show that 9 in 10 nursing homes fall below expected staffing levels and that the average facility is 25% short-staffed on a daily basis, with weekend deficits even higher at an average of 31%. Expected staffing levels are determined using an evidence-based methodology that takes into account residents’ specific care needs as identified by the facilities.
What This Means For Consumers
If you, reading this, or someone you know has a loved one in a rehab facility, be extra cautious and vigilant. There is a higher risk now of neglect, falls, and other dangers because of short staffing. When I had a sibling go to a nursing home for rehab after a stroke, I called every day to monitor what was going on. Ask questions, find out if there are any issues with your loved one. Don't leave it up to them to do everything they are supposed to do. Be an advocate for your loved one.
