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Older nurses are more prone to back injuries and chemical sensitivities, nursing experts say.
Moreover, they will face the usual effects of aging, including reduced muscle strength, changes in vision, and possible worsening of chronic conditions. The gradual aging of the work force won t reverse until about 2020, when older RNs begin to retire at which time hospitals may encounter significant shortages, researchers found. The reason for the shortage, says Buerhaus, is that younger women are opting for other careers and are not entering nursing programs. Expanded associate-degree nursing programs largely have attracted women in their 30s who were starting second careers, says Buerhaus. Therefore, the analysis of the changes in the work force largely focuses on women.