America’s Health Rankings Senior Report rated Minnesota the healthiest state in the nation for adults aged 65 and over. Interestingly, Florida came in 28th!
The report grades states based upon 34 categories, including physical activity, prescription drug coverage, and flu vaccinations. New Hampshire, Vermont, and Massachusetts were also in the top five. Minnesota Seniors have the lowest prevalence of cognitive problems, for one thing.
Based on our sources, Minnesota has been proactive in moving towards community-based living for seniors and away from institutionalized nursing home care. Roughly speaking, you can treat three people in the community for the same price that it costs to put one person in a nursing home. Another positive indicator for Minnesota was its ability to boost applications and to qualify seniors for the state’s food assistance program.
Source/more: Kaiser Health News
