Aging - Research Findings

Increased longevity, the large Baby Boomer population and declining birth rates are producing a unique shift in the age structure of the population. This unprecedented shift is happening at all geographic levels and is anticipated to have wide-reaching effects - especially as the changes occur against a backdrop of rapid technological change, uncertainties in the broader economy, climate change, cultural changes between generations, and shrinking government resources.  Hennepin County is working to understand how these changing age demographics will affect the county as a service provider, as a geographic and economic region and as a local government agency.

Through reviews of recent research, analysis of current local data and focus groups with county residents, the Hennepin County Aging Initiative aims to help county leaders and stakeholders understand these changes and respond with effective public policy. The Hennepin County Research, Planning and Development Department has created this page to share information compiled by its research analysts and to provide links to valuable information about this important change in our population.

What does the research tell us?

• Socio-demographic trends in Hennepin County’s population
• What we have learned from research about aging and transportation and mobility
• What an aging population will mean for the workforce
• What the research says about aging and economic security
• What research tells us about elder abuse and neglect
• What research on aging tells us about healthy aging
• What research shows is important for housing as people age

What are we hearing from Hennepin County residents and staff members?

• What Hennepin County residents and staff say: Findings from focus groups

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