Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) has announced a merger with Diakon, a Pennsylvania-based senior living operator, to enhance its capabilities for the future. With this move, LSS will expand its portfolio to include a total of twelve life plan communities, one assisted living community, and nine affordable senior housing communities. CEO Adam Marles believes that the merger will improve talent acquisition, specialization within the organization, career advancement opportunities, purchasing power, and access to capital.
The combined organization will have over 3,500 team members and more than 5,300 residents, ranking as the 12th largest non-profit senior living operator. Factors influencing the decision include Diakon’s reputation for serving residents well and the financial stability of both organizations. This merger marks a significant moment in the 165-year history of Lutheran Senior Services, setting the organization on a path of growth and enhanced services while maintaining quality care for residents and employees.
The Diakon-managed communities will retain their brands post-merger, with the finalization expected later this summer. This announcement comes after LSS’ strategic acquisitions in 2024, including St. Louis Home Health and New Horizons PACE, to diversify its service offerings. Marles highlighted the importance of diversification in ensuring long-term success and aligning with the organization’s strategic goals of fostering a positive culture, evolving services, pursuing growth opportunities, and ensuring financial sustainability.
