The Long-Term Care Imperative

At 74, Michael Koppy is still setting speed records in ultramarathons. "I feel just the opposite of bored." bit.ly/46iLKLt

Minnesota shouldn't be a hard place to grow old, but without a plan that prioritizes seniors and their well-being, our 1 million+ older adults will continue to navigate a long-term care crisis. Our seniors deserve better.

Thank you for voting. The correct answer is C — the 65+ population has grown 33% in just a decade, reflecting a major demographic shift. We can't ignore the need to invest in long-term care.

Retirement isn't an end — it's a powerful new beginning. Across the U.S., seniors are using their skills to support nonprofits, mentor others, drive change and strengthen communities. It's time to ensure MN can support those who give so much. bit.ly/4kkhGmd

This summer, Harvey and Betty Holtan are celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary — a milestone reached by less than 0.1% of marriages. Both currently 97, they met at Rochester's Armory as teenagers and have been dancing together ever since.

The United States is currently experiencing the largest senior population increase in history. By what percentage has the number of Americans aged 65 and older increased over the past decade?

By 2034, U.S. adults over 65 will outnumber kids under 18. Working adults are increasingly responsible for the care of their aging parents, often while juggling childcare. Employers are noticing, but real change is needed to support our seniors and their families.

Betty Lentz, a devoted MN Twins fan, celebrated her upcoming 100th birthday by throwing out the first pitch at last Thursday's Twins vs. Seattle Mariners game. Her secret to a long life? "Live every day to the fullest."

The number of U.S. workers providing care to older adults is now greater than the number taking care of preschool children — and the financial and emotional impacts are substantial. It's time to provide seniors and caregivers the support they deserve.

In a new documentary, Bradley Cooper shares his story of providing care for his dad. 53 million Americans are unpaid caregivers, yet most receive little support. 'Caregiving' shows how U.S. policy fails families — and calls for action. We must demand real investment in care.

"Demand is rising at the same point that supply is decreasing, and both are happening at a very rapid pace." By 2030, 70% of Minnesotans over 65 will need long-term care during their life — but our state isn't prepared. When will state leaders start putting seniors first?

Despite their awareness of MN's long-term care crisis, the state still passed a budget that leaves seniors behind. "The need for care does not go away when funding gets decreased or disappears." Lack of support puts the well-being of seniors at risk.

For Jackie Mjoen & Anna Longworth, nursing isn’t just a job—it’s family. At Sacred Heart Care Center in Austin, MN, they help residents feel at home, with care rooted in connection, respect, and teamwork. "We want to make their time here as enjoyable as possible."