Minnesota Joins the Age-Friendly Network

In January 2022, Minnesota became the ninth state to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities. The enrollment came after Governor Tim Walz signed an executive order in December 2019 establishing the Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota. The following year that group submitted its recommendations to prioritize aging, which included eight recommendations.

“I am extremely proud to see Minnesota recognized as an official Age-Friendly State," Walz said. "I am committed to keeping Minnesota a state where people of all ages can live life to the fullest. We’re working to ensure that Minnesota offers the financial security, health care, housing, transportation, and social services necessary for all people to retire and live out their golden years in a safe and dignified fashion.”

The governor’s executive order commits to "promote equity and make progress toward equitable outcomes by examining programs, policies, and practices to ensure that they address disparities experienced by older adults in Greater Minnesota, older adults of color, and indigenous older adults.” In addition, because the council developed its recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic it highlighted emergency preparedness as central to livability.