San Diego is grappling with a significant caregiving crisis that threatens the stability of its workforce. Families across the region, like those of many residents, are feeling the financial strain of childcare costs that can exceed $2,000 per month. This dilemma not only affects parents but also has broader implications for the local economy.
The challenges of balancing work, education, and caregiving responsibilities are increasingly prevalent. As the largest share of the labor force, millennials are often part of the “sandwich generation,” tasked with raising children while also caring for aging parents. This dual responsibility has far-reaching effects on productivity and overall work-life balance.
According to research from the San Diego & Imperial Center of Excellence (COE), the region’s care system is fragile. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated existing issues, leading to the loss of nearly 2,000 childcare slots. With wages for early childhood educators remaining low, many professionals are leaving the sector for higher-paying jobs in retail or hospitality. As a result, families are left waiting for care services they can barely afford, and many parents, predominantly women, are forced to exit the workforce.
The crisis extends to senior care as well. An analysis by COE indicates that approximately 70% of more than half a million seniors in the region will require long-term care, yet only around 29,000 licensed senior-care slots exist. This translates to about three out of five seniors who may not access necessary care, even when required.
A clear workforce shortage further compounds this issue. Employers across California report a staggering need for 148,000 home health and personal care aides, a demand that has surged 50 times higher than projections from a decade ago.
The impact of caregiving extends to education as well. A survey conducted among 600 adult learners aged 25 and older within the community college system revealed that student-caregivers face significant challenges. Many report being more likely to pause or abandon their education due to the overwhelming responsibilities of balancing school, work, and caregiving.
These findings underscore the urgent need for systemic change. Community colleges in the region can play a pivotal role in addressing the caregiving crisis and strengthening the workforce pipeline. Programs such as the personal care assistant training and free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes offered at the San Diego College of Continuing Education are vital. Yet, many of these programs are reliant on grant funding and face potential discontinuation without consistent financial support.
The economic importance of caregivers cannot be overstated. They are essential to families and communities, yet many earn less than a living wage. It is crucial to implement policies that support caregivers, value their work as a profession, and provide competitive compensation.
As we observe National Family Caregivers Month, it is imperative to acknowledge the contributions of caregivers and take actionable steps to support them. Their well-being is intertwined with the region’s future economic stability. Addressing these issues is not just a moral obligation; it is vital for the health of San Diego’s workforce and community.
Dr. Tina Ngo Bartel, executive director of the San Diego & Imperial Center of Excellence, emphasizes the necessity of reforming the caregiving system to better support families and ensure that students can succeed while pursuing careers in caregiving. The time to act is now.
