Age of Persons Supported and Factors Predicting Intended Staff Turnover: A Comparative Study

Abstract

Abstract Community-based direct support professionals (DSPs) face a myriad of challenges on the job that are intensified by the complexities of supporting people with disabilities who are aging. The purpose of this study was to compare the variables of job stress/demand, empowerment/control, perceived organizational support, organizational commitment, job satisfaction, and intent to turnover (identified as attitudinal antecedents to attrition), between DSPs who primarily support aging adults with an intellectual disability and those who support younger people. Ninety-seven DSPs completed an online survey. Results indicate that DSPs who support aging adults showed statistically lower empowerment/control than their peers. Data suggest that they are also at comparatively higher risk of attrition. Implications and recommendations for strengthening this workforce are shared.