Migrant Care Workers’ Perceptions of Their Working Conditions in Australian Residential Aged Care Facilities

Abstract

Introduction: Staff shortages and retention are the major challenges in residential aged care facilities (RACFs). This study aimed to explore migrant care workers’ perceptions of job demands, their coping strategies, and employment intentions to leave or stay in the sector. Methods: Using a descriptive qualitative research design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with n = 20, RACF migrant care workers from Filipino, Indian, and Nigerian backgrounds in Perth, Western Australia, from April to December 2019. Data were thematically analyzed. Results: Motivating factors included the availability of care work in RACFs, and positive cultural norms associated with caring for older family members. Participants experienced a combination of resettlement and workplace challenges specifically, limited support network, communication challenges, and racial discrimination. Relevance to Practice: Work challenges that are compounded by post-migration stressors should be recognized and addressed in the design and implementation of the aged care workforce reforms to attract and retain migrant care workers.