A Portrait of Home Care in the State of Michigan

There are 1.2 million senior citizens living in Michigan. That number is expected to increase by 58% in the next 25 years. About 50,000 seniors and persons with disabilities receive care through the Home Help program.

A total of 42,000 home care workers help them daily with bathing, feeding, medications, transportation to doctor's appointments and a host of other activities.

Despite their critical role, home care workers in Michigan earn hourly wages that keep them and their families struggling to survive. Many home care workers also do not have health insurance coverage. 

• Nearly 12% say they use the emergency room as their primary care source.
   
• 23% say they needed medical attention in the past year, but didn't go because they couldn't afford it.