This week, AARP and consumer advocates claimed victory after coming to consensus with the long-term care industry on a bill to prevent elder abuse. More than two years ago, a Star Tribune series, Left to Suffer, unveiled a broken regulatory system that left many older and vulnerable adults at risk for abuse and neglect. Minnesota is the only state in the country that does not license assisted living facilities. Reports of elder abuse, uncovered more than 2 years ago, continue with the Minnesota Department of Health receiving approximately 400 cases of abuse and neglect every week.
AARP Minnesota members can look forward to another year of craft brewery gatherings in 2019. AARP MN is building on several successful years of partnering with craft breweries and their local food shelves for charity. Bring a non perishable food item or make a monetary donation and AARP will buy you a craft brew and give you a tour of the brewery.
For too many people, the right type of house, in the right location and at the right price point can’t be found because it no longer exists. This mismatch – between the available housing stock and what people actually want – is partly due to shifting demographics and partly due to the growing demand for walkable urban living. Filling that gap with new housing options that offer the right size, location and price point – something often referred to as “Missing Middle Housing” - is one way to correct this mismatch and create affordable options for a broader range of people.
Around the state Minnesotan’s are talking with candidates about challenging issues. Critical issues like retirement security and protecting vulnerable seniors. These issues are on the line for Minnesotans this mid-term election. While we might not always agree about what’s most important or the best solution, we do know that policy discussions and the decisions that come out of them impact all of us in different ways. That’s why AARP is proud to partner with Twin Cities Public Television on the production of Citizen Lane.
Minnesotans 50 and older are the most reliable group of voters in the country, and it’s important we stay that way. We need to get involved and ask candidates questions on everything we care about – where they stand on Social Security, how they’ll strengthen Medicare, or how they’ll bring down the high cost of prescription drugs.
Election day is fast approaching. Are you registered to vote? Need to know where to vote? Need to request an absentee ballot, or want information on ballot initiatives? Be the difference - find your polling place, get information on how to vote absentee, or review a sample ballot so you're prepared to cast your vote on November 6.
Sometime this fall, let AARP Minnesota treat you to a beer and some fun. We’re partnering with local breweries for several AARP On Tap events, and we'd like you to join us. These events are great opportunities for those who want to meet and connect with other members, learn more about AARP, or simply enjoy a free brewery tour. Make sure to bring a non-perishable food donation, and we'll buy you a beer in exchange. We need your help fighting hunger in the Twin Cities, and this is a refreshing way to get involved. For more information, see the specific event and registration details below.
In 2016 AARP Minnesota and Pollen launched Minnesota's first ever 50 Over 50 list. Journalist Seth Jovaag interviewed some of the honorees and we are re-sharing these stories as part of the nomination period for the 2017 50 Over 50 Minnesota list.