FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: April 02 2025
Contact:
Jon Ebelt , Department of Public Health and Human Services
DPHHS: Take Time to Honor Direct Care Workers in April
DPHHS wants to hear from centenarians
The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is encouraging Montanans to recognize the invaluable contributions of direct care workers during National Care Worker Recognition Month in April.
“Direct care workers provide essential support to elders, people with disabilities, and others who require assistance with daily living, playing a crucial role in enhancing their quality of life,” said DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton. “We are grateful for their work to help individuals live fulfilling, independent lives in their own homes and communities.”
DPHHS Senior and Long-Term Care Division (SLTCD) administrator Lindsey Carter said direct care workers, including home care aides, personal care assistants, and certified nursing assistants, work tirelessly to provide compassionate care which helps individuals to maintain their independence and dignity. Their services range from assisting with personal hygiene and meal preparation to providing medical escort and medication administration.
“We encourage all Montanans this month to take a moment to express their appreciation for the direct care workers who make a difference in their lives and the lives of their loved ones,” Carter said. “There are many selfless individuals in Montana caring for their fellow citizens that deserve to be recognized.”
Jack Racicot of Helena receives services from direct care workers through SLTCD Community Service Bureau (CSB) programs. “Without home caregiving support, I would likely reside in institutionalized care facilities,” Racicot states. “Thanks to the assistance provided by caregivers, I can maintain a healthy hygiene, daily home care tasks, limited active lifestyle - engaging in daily activities, community events, and work. This support allows me to continue living at home, preserving my connection to family, friends, community and a sense of normalcy in my life.”
According to AARP, there are 112,000 informal caregivers in Montana providing 105 million hours of unpaid family care. Montana also employs 8,680 home health aids, also known as direct care workers, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Cassandra Yapuncich, Program Manager for Consumer Direct Care Network states: “The dedication of direct care workers lays the foundation for compassionate and effective care systems,” she said. “Their roles deserve recognition and reflect the profound impact they have on lives and communities.”
DPHHS officials say the demand for direct care workers is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by the aging population in Montana and the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions.