DHS Awards Grants to Help Older Minnesotans Stay Independent

Posted on December 16, 2020 by Lori Meyer

Helping older Minnesotans maintain their health, independence and community involvement is the goal of more than $7 million in grants the Minnesota Department of Human Services is awarding to organizations and facilities around the state.

The Live Well at Home grants total $7,044,845 and will go to 70 organizations from July 1, 2020, to June 30, 2021. “Older adults deserve to live as independently as possible,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “These grants will help organizations across the state that are committed to empowering and serving Minnesotans as they age.”

Examples of the projects and services being funded include:

• Innovative and inclusive programs for American Indian elders, including Bingocize, a fall prevention program.

• “Gerontechnology,” including virtual reality and videography to build intergenerational friendships, support families who care for older adults and provide an array of programming.
• Expanded and customized circulator ride services that help older Minnesotans get to important appointments and take advantage of other opportunities in their communities.

The Live Well at Home grant recipients are listed by region on the DHS website.