The county and tribal agencies are hard at work solving this problem, so that people who are aging or have disabilities can receive the care they need. The Community Links Workforce Project was developed under the guidance of the Bureau of Aging and Long Term Care Resources. Some 30 projects are underway with county social or human services agencies and county aging units working together. Following are some of the programs in progress. Several counties are trying financial incentives such as pay increases for current workers, finder's fees in which workers are rewarded for referring new workers, bonuses for working on Sundays or holidays, and sign-on bonuses for new workers.
Many counties hold picnics, dinners, or parties where workers are recognized and thanked.
One county gives a personal day off for every 200 hours worked. In some cases, workers are given a share of the profits. In some cases, workers can upgrade their skills with help for schooling to become Certified Nursing Assistants. Benefits such as paid time off, health insurance, and help with childcare are being offered. There are radio, TV, and newspaper ads, billboards, bus posters, and job fairs where attention is given to help the public become more aware of the importance of being a caregiver.