Staff turnover in long-term care (LTC) is considered one of the main causes of staff shortages and a key problem for LTC systems in the developed world. Factors affecting staff turnover in LTC facilities are poorly understood due to a fragmented approach. The aim of this study was to use multivariate analysis to identify the factors at the macro-, meso-, and micro-level that influence LTC workers' turnover in Slovenia, a typical Central and Eastern European country. A correlational cross-sectional survey design with a self-reported online questionnaire was used among Slovenian LTC workers (N = 452). The results show that more than half of LTC workers intend to quit their jobs and leave the LTC sector. LTC workers who intend to leave are generally younger, have worked in the LTC sector for a shorter period, are mainly employed in the public sector, especially in nursing homes, and earn less. The connection between the intention to leave and the factors at the macro-, meso-, and micro-level is very high. Over 75% of the variance of intention to leave was explained by the linear influence of sociodemographic characteristics, social recognition, and work environment. Urgent measures for improving the work environment are needed.
Keywords: elderly care; long-term care; social recognition; staff turnover; working environment.