New Study from Center for Rural Policy Highlights Access Shortage of Nursing Home Care

A new study by the Minnesota Center for Rural Policy and Development was released last week, highlighting the dwindling access to nursing home care for older adults in rural Minnesota.

Decline in Bed Availability

According to the report, the statistics are quite clear: the number of beds in rural licensed nursing facilities has declined between 30% and 100%, depending on the region, since 2005. The study also highlighted consumer trends towards home care, though noted the underlying staffing shortage impacting both service lines. 

The study anchored a conversation hosted by the Citizens League as part of their “Interconnected” series, which will be available soon on their website. The panel, which included Jason Anderson, LeadingAge MN Board member and Director of Long-Term Care Services at Sylvan Court, and Erin Huppert, VP of Advocacy for LeadingAge MN, pointed to the need for lawmakers to prioritize funding in 2025 across long-term care services and supports.

Demand Increasing

The findings in this independent research affirm what we know to be true: As demand for care increases, this is a troublesome trend that threatens to leave rural areas underserved. This is a timely study to support our advocacy goals in 2025 and has been gaining traction in print, TV and radio in local communities across the state. Be sure to catch up on the coverage and share the report with thought leaders in your communities. 

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