The thousands of baby boomers who reach retirement age every day are having a big impact in the jobs sector. In addition to many baby boomer aged nurses, doctors, and healthcare workers who are retiring and leaving empty positions behind, the aging boomers are also in need of new workers who can help take care of them. According to Monster.com, the number of some health care job listings, such as for nurses and physical therapists, rose by 13 percent from 2011 to 2012.
Eldercare needs are not only driving job growth, but also job security for those in healthcare fields. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the average registered nurse earns about $64,000 per year, and the number of aging nurses hospitals need to replace is high. One large hospital group reports that about 30 percent of its nursing staff is over the age of 50, and some applicants are being hired for nursing positions on the same day they apply.
Elderly people who choose to stay at home are also prompting a rise in the number of home health workers or assistants. The number of positions for personal care aides and home health aides is expected to grow by 70 percent by 2020. Some home health care providers are reporting that they are hiring qualified workers before there is even a need for them because the expectation of growth in the sector is so strong.
