ST PAUL, Minn. — Editor's note: The video above first aired on Aug. 1, 2021
The decision to transition a parent, relative or loved one from independent to assisted living is difficult and emotional in many cases, with multiple factors determining where that person will call home.
As of Jan. 29 that decision might be a bit easier, with Minnesota's new Assisted Living Report Card now live and ready to help. The website, modeled on the state's Nursing Home Report Card, allows consumers to compare assisted living facilities based on reviews from both residents and their families, along with ratings from inspections by the state.
Those behind the site say nearly 63,000 Minnesotans are currently living in more than 2,200 licensed assisted living facilities across the state. It is considered "a work in progress" as the report card currently features ratings for just 20 percent of those assisted living facilities.
“Looking for an assisted living residence for yourself or a loved one can be stressful and challenging,” said Minnesota Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “We hope that this tool will help people make this important choice, recognizing that there are many factors to consider.”
The Assisted Living Report Card took shape over four years after being approved by the 2019 State Legislature and Gov. Tim Walz. It was developed through a partnership among the Minnesota Department of Human Services, the Minnesota Board on Aging, and the Department of Health.
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