According to a Mercer study from 2021, the state had the lowest ranked workforce shortage nationwide. But since last year, efforts have been made to attract more aides, including several pay wage increases. Ruthann Barnes has been a nurse's aide for over 20 years, and says it's part of her DNA. “It's a natural mommy-care giving thing you know. I love this job," she adds. She's currently working as an aide for Morrie Wheeler, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease a year and a half ago. Wheeler’s granddaughter Elisabeth Dubois and family say finding an aide has been a challenge.
