June 2004

California Nursing Homes: A System in Crisis

The number of Californians age 65 and over is projected to double in the next decade. Many of the facilities slated to provide long-term care for these individuals already operate with deficits in staff and operating budgets. High staff turnover among poorly paid personnel contributes to poor quality of care. Serious problems in California's nursing homes include: Only a small percentage meet the standards recommended for good nursing care. Many show clinical signs of poor care: high percentages of residents who lose weight, are left in bed all or most of the time, and are placed in physical restraints. Most do not meet government compliance standards for care and safety during routine inspections and a number have had serious violations of both state and federal regulations. With an ample number of beds available, however, Californians do have choices and can often find a bed in a facility that provides good quality care. This snapshot examines the current state of California's long-term care facilities as they face growing demands and diminishing resources.