Our Counterpoint to a Troubling Star Tribune Article

Posted on October 2, 2025 by Ben Hansen

Late last week, we were asked by The Minnesota Star Tribune to provide comment on an article about a supposed trend of more seniors choosing assisted living than nursing homes. Despite our best efforts to obtain more information regarding these “trends,” the piece was already moving toward publication. We chose to provide a statement, which was included in the published article.

The article, published Sept. 26 under the headline More seniors are moving into assisted living, not nursing homes. That could be problematic, framed assisted living in a largely negative light. Upon reviewing the piece, we believed the story was deeply flawed in its premise. It overlooked the thousands of positive experiences families and residents have in our member communities every day, and it failed to capture the reality that assisted living is a valuable, flexible care option that supports older adults’ independence, dignity, and choice.

Our Response

After the story was published, we immediately began working on a couple of counterpoint pieces. We’re pleased to share that we were able to get not just one, but two counterpoints published by the Star Tribune to provide balance and perspective. One was a Letter to the Editor (LTE), and the other a more detailed Counterpoint piece—both appearing in the Opinion section. You can find links to each piece below (subscription may be required).

• Readers Write: Assisted living, aging, military service
• Counterpoint: ‘Experts’ are missing the point on caring for Minnesota’s seniors

Special thanks to St. Therese, who helped us identify a family member willing to share their positive experience through the LTE. Their contribution, combined with the Counterpoint piece, provided powerful testimony that assisted living providers are an essential and well-regarded option that thousands of Minnesotans depend on for their care.

Why This Matters

Our ability to respond quickly and effectively to negative media is an important part of our advocacy. By securing space for these counterpoints, we ensured that the voices of providers, residents, and families were heard alongside the narrative presented in the original story. This helps policymakers, opinion leaders, and the public better understand the true value of aging services and the challenges we face in sustaining them.

We will continue to proactively correct misperceptions, highlight the positive impact of our members, and advocate for solutions that strengthen the full continuum of care. Together, our collective voice makes a difference—both in the public arena and in shaping the future of aging services in Minnesota.