Maryland is getting older — fast. By 2030, nearly 1 in 4 Marylanders will be age 60+, totaling almost 1.7 million people. This demographic shift will transform our economy, workforce needs, and care systems.
The Economic Power of Aging
- Adults age 50+ already drive a major share of Maryland’s economy.
- By 2030, they will support over 1.7 million jobs and contribute to more than one-third of the state’s workforce and consumer activity.
- With more Marylanders choosing to age in place, demand for caregivers, housing, and community services will expand rapidly.
Workforce Challenges Ahead
According to AHCA/NCAL’s state-specific workforce data:
- Maryland’s long-term care sector faces thousands of unfilled direct care jobs.
- Staffing shortages are projected to grow as demand for assisted living, skilled nursing, and home-based services increases.
- Recruitment and retention remain the top challenges, driven by wage pressures, burnout, and limited pipelines of trained workers.
Argentum’s Careforce 2030 resources highlight that nationally, senior living will need millions of new caregivers by the end of the decade — a trend reflected strongly in Maryland. Meeting this demand requires bold workforce strategies: training programs, career ladders, apprenticeships, and supportive policies.
Who We Need Most
- Direct Care Workers: home health aides, CNAs, personal care aides.
- Nurses & Specialists: LPNs, RNs, dementia and behavioral health expertise.
- Care Coordinators & Navigators: connecting older adults with services.
- Support Roles: transportation, dining, housing modification, and technology.
How is LifeSpan responding?
We are at the forefront of solutions:
- Creating a hybrid CNA/GNA training program
- Advocating in Annapolis and on the Hill
- Working with OHCQ on new regulations and survey requirements
- Supporting caregivers with training, certification, and career advancement.
The Path Forward
Maryland’s aging population is not just a challenge — it’s an opportunity to create jobs, strengthen communities, and reimagine care. With data from AHCA/NCAL and insights from Argentum, we know what’s needed. Now is the time to invest in a stronger careforce and ensure older adults in Maryland can thrive.