Sometimes the signs are subtle. Other times, they’re hard to ignore. If you’re questioning your future in your current elderly care role, you’re not alone – particularly with the well documented attrition rates associated with the elderly care and senior living sectors widely circulated. Compass Associates is here to support you and offer advice, help guide, and ensure the transition between roles is as smooth as possible.
There are a consistent five themes Compass Associates consultants hear when speaking with care professionals who are considering moving on from their role in elderly care, and they have been outlined in more detail below:
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1 You’ve hit a progression “ceiling” in your elderly care role
If there’s no clear next step, promotion pathway, or skill-building opportunity, it might be time to look elsewhere. Our 2026 elderly care salary benchmarking report shows that many Deputy Managers stagnate unless they have visible support, and this is a consistent theme regardless of role in the sector.
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2 You’re taking on more without the recognition, or reward
Are your responsibilities increasing, but your salary and benefits aren’t keeping pace? You’re not being unreasonable, Compass Associates’ data shows pay gaps where increased workload hasn’t been fairly reflected.
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3 There’s a misalignment within leadership or culture
You’re passionate about care, but the culture or leadership style at your home doesn’t reflect your values. That mismatch impacts your mental health and long-term career goals, and can also lead to brilliant care givers leaving the sector altogether.
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4 You’re looking for a new challenge
Whether that’s moving into regional management or taking on a turnaround project, your motivation shouldn’t be ignored. Growth often means change.
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5 You keep looking at job boards
If you’re checking vacancies “just to see what’s out there,” it’s a sign your heart and head are already one step ahead. Many of the roles Compass Associates are supporting to hire are not advertised online, and many of our experience consultants have networks and relationships with hiring managers which means introductions can be made even if no obvious role is live – let us help you, and leave the proactivity to us.
Ready to find your next role in elderly care?
Let Compass Associates support your next move! We’ll help you reflect, plan, and make the transition with confidence. With national reach and regional expertise, we’ll match your skills and aspirations to the right employer.