Sioux Falls, SD (KELO AM) - Sioux Falls ranks among the top small metro areas in the country as a city promoting successful aging, according to the Milken Institute’s Best Cities for Successful Aging rankings, released yesterday.
Sioux Falls ranked second among 252 similar-sized metropolitan areas, which were evaluated on factors such as health care, wellness, living arrangements, financial well-being, transportation, employment and educational opportunities, and community engagement. Iowa City, Iowa, ranked first. Rapid City, South Dakota, ranked fifth.
The Milken report stated the top small metro areas “perform strongly on many criteria conducive to healthy, purposeful aging, including a wealth of health care assets; robust economic, employment, and entrepreneurial environments; and strong educational resources.”
“This is an incredible endorsement of how Sioux Falls has created an environment where older adults thrive,” says Mayor Mike Huether.
The announcement from the Milken Institute also recognized Mayor Huether for signing the Best Cities for Successful Aging Mayor’s Pledge last month. By signing the pledge, Mayor Huether and other mayors across the country have agreed to take steps such as increasing housing, health, and transportation options that suit this population’s varied needs. The pledge also focuses on promoting opportunities for older adults to work and volunteer across the government, nonprofit, and private sectors.
“This recognition comes on the heels of Sioux Falls being named one of Money magazine’s Nine Great Places to Retire,” adds Mayor Huether. “With a booming economy, we have opportunities for seniors who want to work or start a second career. Our health care services are second to none, and we have a wealth of recreational activities to support our seniors’ active lifestyles. We remain committed to a high quality of life for seniors in our community.”
About the Milken Institute
A nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank, the Milken Institute’s mission is to improve lives around the world by advancing innovative economic and policy solutions that create jobs, widen access to capital, and enhance health. The mayors’ pledge is part of the Institute’s Best Cities for Successful Aging initiative. See the Pledge at www.milkeninstitute.org/publications/view/662.