The Nursing Boom as Boomers Age: What This Means for the Nursing Profession
The generation known as “baby boomers” have contributed to numerous advancements in modern workplaces, and they are now reaching the age of retirement. Baby boomers were given their name due to the higher-than-average birth rate that followed WWII. This now means there are more people requiring aged care than ever before, placing strain on the nursing industry.
In this article, we’re discussing the unprecedented challenges that have arisen in the nursing industry and predicting the industry-wide changes that will result.
New Challenges for the Nursing Industry
As the older demographic reaches retirement age, new challenges are arising in the medical field. People in this generation are living longer while developing a higher number of illnesses than previous generations. Baby boomers have a higher rate of hypertension, high cholesterol, obesity and diabetes, placing incredible strain on the healthcare industry.
It isn’t unusual for people to require additional healthcare services as they age; however, due to the sheer size of this generation, the demand for nurses is soaring. Hospitals are feeling the strain of increased patient numbers sooner than other healthcare organisations. Focusing on alternative healthcare settings, such as home care and outpatient clinics, may create opportunities for job growth in this field.
The Number of Experienced Nurses Is Decreasing
Many experienced baby-boomer nurses, including many leaders in the industry, are retiring. Unfortunately, these professionals are retiring at the same time as the demand for nurses soars. As baby-boomer nurses leave the profession, educational facilities will need to attract a new generation of nurses to take their place.
The major concern is not with the number of nurses, but in the intellectual assets that will be leaving the field. It’s now vital to prepare the next generation of nurses for the workforce through high-quality education programs and hands-on training.
The Future of Nursing in Australia
Technological advancements in the healthcare industry are opening new avenues for nurses, changing how we diagnose and care for our patients. Continued leadership and innovation will be crucial to the support of these developments and creating a smooth transition between the two generations of nurses.
Now and in the future, nurses will play a more diversified role in patient care, offering alternative methods of aged care that require smarter usage of resources and less hospital space. Many registered nurses may pursue training in clinical practice so they can support the shortage of healthcare professionals in rural areas.
Combatting the Challenges with Further Study
Ambitious registered nurses who emerge from the next generation may choose to expand their skills through further study pathways. As the healthcare sector changes, it’s important to stay up to date with the latest technology, and this is possible through postgraduate study and TAFE courses online, including the Diploma of Nursing.
Speak to TAFE Gippsland about flexible study options as you engage with key developments in the nursing industry. Find out more by calling 1300 133 717 or contacting us online.
TAFE Gippsland
Education - TAFE Gippsland
As your local TAFE, we’re passionate about giving everyone in the Gippsland region the opportunity to undertake quality and reliable pre-vocational training. We have campuses throughout eastern Victoria, from Warragul to Lakes Entrance, and we offer a diverse range of programs.
Our teaching methods and learning environments are specially designed to give students the chance to get hands-on, develop real skills and gain the experience they need to transform their future.
Studying at TAFE
Whatever stage of life you’re at, TAFE Gippsland has a variety of courses to help you achieve your goals – from preapprenticeships and accredited short courses to certificates and advanced diplomas.
Our courses are developed to give you the qualifications, skills and experience you need to work within your industry of choice and thrive in the modern workplace.
Best of all, our flexible study options mean you can complete your course in a way that suits your lifestyle – whether that’s full time, part time or online. And throughout your time with TAFE, the Student Support Services Team will be there to assist you with any study challenges, issues or questions you might have.
Tailored workplace training
TAFE Gippsland offers tailored workplace training to help Gippsland businesses upskill their staff and succeed in achieving their goals. So far, we’ve partnered with community, business and government organisations, delivering training in everything from first aid and customer service to automotive and aviation.
Whether you’re a large organisation or a small local business, we can provide your team with bespoke, high-quality and cost-effective education and training – delivered on-the job, in our purpose-built facilities or online.
Helping Gippsland thrive
For 85 years, we have been helping Gippsland communities thrive by empowering local students and supporting local businesses. But our influence in the region goes beyond our programs. It extends to a wide range of social initiatives that underpin an integral part of our mission as an educational institute – to participate in the social and cultural development of Gippsland.
Through projects including our Community Cafés, Pamper Days and Community Forums – where we invite anyone to share ideas on TAFE’s role in shaping the region – we’re continually enhancing our contribution to the wider community.