Minnesota has about 1.5 million baby boomers. According to Ecumen’s Age Wave Study, here are the most important characteristics to them as they think about senior housing:
Independence
Nearby friends and family
Privacy
Easy-access health care
Safety
Ownership instead of renting
Easy-access shopping
Availability of spiritual opportunities
Easy-access transportation
Meaningful volunteer opportunities
Welcomed community involvement
Easy-access fitness opportunities
Travel opportunities
Educational opportunities
Multi-generational community
Waconia, Minnesota, recently built senior housing on the main street close to many community amenities rather than out in a corn field. It meets many of the criteria that baby boomers think are important to them. As we think about the future of Minnesota and senior housing, this is a great check list to start with and use in planning senior housing development.