Overview

Quickly access information related to Minnesota's aging population.

Between 2010 and 2030, the number of adults age 65+ is expected to nearly double, while the number of younger residents will increase only modestly. As the baby boomer generation ages, this huge demographic shift will affect our state’s workforce, health and human services agencies, and beyond. A desire to maintain good health, social connections, and sufficient financial resources are priorities for many older residents and their families. In addition, our older residents possess wisdom, energy, and resources that can improve the community for all.

What's happening

  • Older residents across Minnesota are largely engaged in their communities, as evidenced by rates of volunteerism that far outpace national rates. Statewide, nearly half (45%) of local residents age 65-74 volunteer, and almost a third age 75+ give time to organizations each year.
  • Recognizing levels and types of disability are critical for planning services and understanding the scope of caregiving needs in our region. In Minnesota, among older adults age 65-74, about 19 percent had disabilities; that rises to 36 percent for adults age 75-84.

Making connections

Like many states across the U.S., Minnesota will have increasingly fewer residents of traditional “working age” relative to those 65 or older, which underscores the need for a quality education for those who will be the workers of tomorrow. As residents age, costly chronic health conditions such as diabetes catch up with more of our residents; consequently, it is important to promote healthful behaviors for residents of all ages to maintain well-being in later years.

Minnesota Compass

Minnesota Compass
www.mncompass.org
Led by Wilder Research

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