March 5, 2026

Advocating For Minnesota Seniors on Capitol Hill

On March 5, 2026 by Kelly Conrad

Last week, Kari Thurlow, LeadingAge Minnesota’s President and CEO and Kelly Conrad, Director of Assisted Living Services, joined Argentum in Washington, D.C. to advocate for policies that strengthen senior living communities and support older adults across Minnesota and the nation.

We met with staff who work with Representative Tom Emmer, Senator Amy Klobuchar, and Senator Tina Smith to discuss bipartisan legislation focused on three critical priorities: promoting senior socialization and longevity, helping seniors afford long-term care, and addressing workforce shortages in aging services.

Our conversations centered on five key bills designed to improve the lives of older adults and those who serve them.

Promoting Senior Socialization and Longevity

To address the growing public health crisis of loneliness and isolation, we discussed the Care Across Generations Act (H.R. 1812) and the Social Engagement and Network Initiatives for Older Relief (SENIOR) Act (S. 473). Research from the National Institute on Aging shows that the health risks of chronic loneliness are comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes per day, and social isolation is associated with a 50% increased risk of developing dementia. These bipartisan proposals support intergenerational engagement and further study the impact of isolation—helping communities create innovative solutions that keep older adults connected and thriving.

Helping Seniors Afford Long-Term Care

We also advocated for policies that help families better manage the high cost of care. With more than two-thirds of Americans expected to need long-term care in their lifetime—and 40% of baby boomers reporting little to no retirement savings—the need for financial flexibility is urgent. The Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act (S. 1565 / H.R. 138) would allow families to use tax-advantaged health savings and flexible spending accounts to cover medical expenses for aging parents, providing meaningful relief to caregivers.

Workforce Shortages in Aging Services

Finally, we addressed one of the most pressing challenges facing senior living providers: workforce shortages. America’s aging population is expanding rapidly, and more than 20 million long-term care workers will be needed by 2040 to meet demand. We urged support for the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (S. 492 / H.R. 1177), which incentivizes employers to hire individuals facing employment barriers, and the Essential Workers for Economic Advancement Act (H.R. 5494), which proposes a market-driven temporary worker visa program for positions that remain unfilled.

Thank you to LeadingAge Minnesota members Chris Hyatt and Pam Engle of New Perspectives, along with Brett Anderson of Ebenezer, for participating in these productive and thoughtful meetings, which demonstrated bipartisan commitment to strengthening services for older adults. We were proud to share the real-world experiences of senior living communities and the residents and families they serve. By bringing these priorities directly to our federal leaders, we help ensure that the voices of older adults remain front and center in national policy discussions.

Advocacy is essential to building a future where older adults can live with dignity, connection, and access to quality care—and we are honored to be part of that effort.