[ST. PAUL, MN] – Last week, AARP announced that Minnesota has become the tenth state to join the AARP Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities . States that are a part of this network commit to engaging older residents in efforts to improve that state’s infrastructure, systems, and social environment.

“I am extremely proud to see Minnesota recognized as an official Age-Friendly State.” said Governor Tim Walz. “ 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.”

“We know our state is aging, and our administration has always been committed to making sure everyone has an opportunity to sit at the decision-making table,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “Joining this network acknowledges the work we have done to make sure these seats are open for our aging population and support Minnesotans of all ages.”

“Well-designed, livable communities promote wellbeing, independence and resilience, sustain economic growth, and make for happier, healthier residents,” said Cathy McLeer, AARP Minnesota State Director. “Governor Walz, the Minnesota Legislature and the Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota have taken important action to ensure our state adapts to the needs of our aging population and changing world.”

“Joining the Network today represents an important leadership milestone in ensuring that our state seizes the unprecedented opportunities we have with a growing aging demographic,” said Sherrie Pugh, Founding Chair of the Governor’s Council for an Age-Friendly Minnesota Working Together. “We are well-positioned to make Minnesota a better place to grow older – not just for some, but for all.”

Thirteen Minnesota communities joined AARP’s network prior to the state’s enrollment: Alexandria, Brooklyn Park, Duluth, Hennepin County, Lake County, Maple Grove, Minneapolis, Northfield, Oakdale, Olmsted County, Princeton, St. Cloud and Wyoming.

In 2019, Governor Walz issued Executive Order 19-38 to establish the Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota charged with developing recommendations to his office and the legislature. Based on those recommendations, in 2021 the Minnesota Legislature reauthorized the Council to operate through the 2024 fiscal year, appropriated $3.9M for its operations and local Age-Friendly grants, and directed the state to join AARP’s network.

The Governor’s Council on an Age-Friendly Minnesota meets on a bi-monthly basis via video conference and its meetings are open to the public, posted at www.mn.gov/dhs/age-friendly-mn .

Learn more about AARP’s Network of Age-Friendly States and Communities statewide and nationwide at www.aarp.org/agefriendly .