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An Aging America

As the aging population explodes statewide and in the Flathead Valley, Montana policymakers are bracing for a dramatic demographic shift

By Beacon Staff
Kenneth Soward and his daughter Patricia diStefano, pictured at Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell on May 11, 2016. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon

The Graying of Montana

As the aging population explodes statewide and in the Flathead Valley, Montana policymakers are bracing for a dramatic demographic shift

By Tristan Scott

Montana is growing long in the tooth.

State projections show that its population is graying at an unprecedented rate, outpacing the rest of the country and placing added pressure on state and local governments, as well as stressing community services.

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Wilbur Hauth, pictured at Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell on May 11, 2016. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon
Wilbur Hauth, pictured at Prestige Assisted Living in Kalispell on May 11, 2016. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon

Hitting One-Hundred

Montana’s number of centenarians is expected to blossom to more than 3,000 by 2025. Three such individuals give their advice on getting there.

By Molly Priddy

Sitting in a room at Prestige Care in Kalispell, 300 combined years of living experience considered one of the biggest questions humans ask: What is the secret to a long life?

For the centenarians here – Myrtle Strotdbeck, Kenneth Soward, and Wilbur Hauth – the question is met with a long look and quick chuckle.

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Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Monica Lindeen. Beacon File Photo

Education Key to Curbing Elder Exploitation

Commissioner of Securities and Insurance calls financial fraud “crime of the 21st century”

By Tristan Scott

Last month, Commissioner of Securities and Insurance Monica J. Lindeen toured the state to promote a well-worn message – education is key to fighting fraud, which is a constant threat for Montana’s aging population, a segment that con artists regularly target.

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Denise Zander, an occupational therapist at The Summit in Kalispell, demonstrates a new driving simulator on May 13, 2016. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon
Denise Zander, an occupational therapist at The Summit in Kalispell, demonstrates a new driving simulator on May 13, 2016. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon

Hitting the Road Later in Life

Transportation options for an aging population a growing concern across the valley

By Justin Franz

Whether it’s the long distances, rough roads or harsh weather, transportation in Montana has long been a challenge. It can be especially hard for older residents facing medical conditions that can hinder their ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.

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Members of the Board of Directors for Immanuel Lutheran Communities, including CEO Jason Cronk, right, toss dirt into the air during a groundbreaking ceremony on May 5, 2016. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon
Members of the Board of Directors for Immanuel Lutheran Communities, including CEO Jason Cronk, right, toss dirt into the air during a groundbreaking ceremony on May 5, 2016. Greg Lindstrom | Flathead Beacon

Setting a New Standard for Senior Living

Variety of housing options surfacing for active, independent Baby Boomer generation

By Dillon Tabish

As research is increasingly showing, the Baby Boomer generation is setting a new standard for senior living.

“You have people who are incredibly active much later in life now,” Kalispell Planning Director Tom Jentz said. “The Baby Boomers are retiring but they are so incredibly active by and large and they’re not ready to slow down.”

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