Aging Minnesotans Can Benefit From ‘Teamwork’

(Adobe Stock via Minnesota News Connection)

(By Mike Moen. Minnesota News Connection) – How prepared is Minnesota to care for an aging population? Families are being encouraged to map out a plan emphasizing elder rights and avoids guardianships, if possible.

“Supported decision-making” is emerging as a tool to empower people with age-related disabilities. It is predicted by 2030, nearly 20% of Minnesota’s population will be 65 and older. As elected leaders and health care providers look at broader needs, experts say caregivers and individuals can plan, too.

Ryan Boosinger, senior program manager of supported decision-making for Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota, recommended assembling a team of trusted voices to guide an aging person on important decisions like finances, with someone else providing input on health matters.

“We’ve thought through what could happen and we know where we can go if we have a situation that we need to resolve,” Boosinger explained. “There’s an outline and I’m prepared to follow it.”