Adam Marles became the President and CEO of Lutheran Senior Services (LSS) in 2021, ushering in a new strategic framework and growth plan to cater to the evolving needs of senior living residents.
Today, LSS has eight life plan communities, nine affordable housing communities, and a range of home- and community-based services, with a budget of $232 million (2023).
Under Marles’ leadership, LSS has transitioned away from skilled nursing and focused on independent and assisted living. The organization has also initiated a three-year deep-dive on memory care to enhance its services for people living with dementia.
Looking ahead, Marles aims to evolve the organization to meet the demands of the incoming baby boomer generation, focusing on providing sustainable communities for the long-term.
Preparing for the ‘future of our business’
LSS is adapting to the changing preferences of the upcoming generation of senior living residents by repositioning its properties and expanding its services. This includes downsizing skilled nursing units and adding more assisted living and memory care units to better meet the needs of tomorrow’s older adults.
LSS is also deepening its focus on home- and community-based services, as reflected in the recent acquisition of St. Louis Home Health, a home health agency specializing in orthopedics and care navigation services.
Marles emphasizes the importance of delivering comparable services to all residents and catering to the middle-market consumers for senior living through home health and home care services.
A ‘pivot year’ in 2024
As LSS gears up for 2024, the organization is focused on growth, including potential acquisitions and partnerships to further expand its senior living offerings. Repositioning projects and affiliations with other nonprofits are also on the horizon as LSS prepares for a ‘pivot year’ with strong occupancy rates.
