A shortage of health aides is forcing out those who wish to get care at home

Jon Miller sits in his bedroom with his dog, Carlos, whom he received as a present for successfully completing cancer treatment a decade ago. Miller sustained severe brain damage, and requires the help of home health aides to continue living in his home. (Natalie Krebs/Side Effects Public Media)

Natalie Krebs / Natalie Krebs

A lot has changed in Jonathan Miller’s life in the past decade, but one thing that’s remained consistent is his house.

The brick two-bedroom, ranch-style house in West Des Moines, Iowa, is filled with Jonathan’s art, photos, puzzles and a substantial collection of University of Iowa gear.

Jon bought the house in 2007, and for three years put a lot of work into the fixer-upper — repairing storm damage, planting trees in the backyard and completely remodeling the interior.