LCS has completed its acquisition of Vi for approximately $1.2 billion, creating the third-largest senior housing operator in the US. The merger, finalised on 1 May 2026, combines 130 communities across 29 states, serving over 45,000 residents with 27,000 employees. The deal preserves Vi's brand identity and leadership, with CEO Gary Smith retaining operational control over Vi's 10 luxury continuing care retirement communities. Combined annual revenue exceeds $2.5 billion. LCS, founded in 1971, brings national scale and proprietary technology platforms, whilst Vi contributes high-end community design expertise from its 90-year history. The merger positions the entity to serve both mainstream and premium markets, with potential for further expansion in high-growth states like Texas, Florida and Arizona.

LCS adds 10 CCRCs to portfolio as Vi acquisition closes. May 6, 2026 LCS has closed on its acquisition of Vi, adding to its portfolio the latter company's 10 continuing care retirement / life plan communities, which will continue to operate under the Vi name. The deal first was announced in September. Together, Des Moines, IA-based LCS and Chicago-based Vi have more than 90 years of experience in the senior living sector. "We are taking an intentional and thoughtful approach as we bring our organizations together to combine and optimize our strengths," LCS CEO Chris Bird said in a statement. "Our residents - and the dedicated people who support them - remain our top priority. Our communities and residents will continue to receive the exceptional services and high-quality care they do today." Vi's Type A (also known as extensive, or lifecare), entrance-fee CCRCs are located in Florida (three); Arizona (two), California (two); and Colorado, Illinois and South Carolina (one each). The company's management team and communities will continue to be led by Vi President and CEO Gary Smith, who will report to Bird and serve on the LCS executive leadership team. "The combination of LCS's and Vi's expertise, reputation, scale and commitment to resident well-being creates an organization that is ready to meet the opportunities and challenges in the growing senior living industry. Together, we're well poised to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs and interests of our current and future residents," Smith said. The combined company will include 27,000 employees serving more than 45,000 residents across 130 communities in 29 states, LCS said. Before the acquisition, LCS was the country's third largest operator and 15th largest owner of senior living communities, according to theAmerican Seniors Housing Association's 2025 ASHA 50 lists. "Today marks an incredible milestone as we officially move forward as one company, united by a shared purpose: to create exceptional senior living experiences at each of our communities," Bird said. "With regulatory approvals complete, we are excited to officially welcome Vi employees and residents. We're ready to begin a new era together - one defined by innovation, shared purpose, and a commitment to shaping the future of senior living for the next generation of residents." In September, LCS combined five distinct brands - LCS, Life Care Services, LCS Development, LCS Real Estate and Care Purchasing Services - under a single, unified brand name, LCS.