Strategies for Improving DSW Recruitment, Retention, and Quality: What We Know about What Works, What Doesn’t, and Research Gaps

Review strategies states can adopt to increase recruitment and retention of direct-care workers and to improve the quality of the care those workers provide. Reported strategies include increasing wages and benefits, introducing peer mentoring programs, and giving workers a greater say in decision-making. The findings also suggest a targeted approach to recruitment, focusing on groups currently underrepresented in the direct-care workforce, such as men, immigrants, and older workers.