To Media: For Immediate Release – July 24, 2023

Contact:
Candace McMullen, Affinity Health Services, LLC, Spokesperson
The Atrium

Johnstown, PA - The Board of Directors regretfully announces its decision to permanently close
The Atrium. Located in downtown Johnstown, The Atrium steadfastly provides personal care
services to seniors with limited resources living throughout the greater Johnstown area.
While organizations operating in the senior living industry have historically been under financial
strain, the pandemic compounded the existing financial stress. Provider relief funds and
stimulus payments assisted with maintaining operations throughout the pandemic; however,
COVID related revenue reductions and expense increases, record – high inflation, and sharp
increases in labor costs have created oversized repercussions not able to be rebalanced.
“The Atrium provides more than $400,000 in charity care annually and unfortunately, under the
current industry conditions, we have no choice but to permanently close The Atrium,” provides
Craig Saylor, Senior Choice Board Chairman. “We are proud of the quality care and services we
have provided to so many Johnstown community seniors who have called The Atrium their
home these past 30 years. It is unfortunate the organization can no longer continue to absorb
the charity care and meet our operating expenditures. “
In Pennsylvania, personal care subsidies provided through the Pennsylvania Office of Aging for
low – income seniors are limited, in some cases reimbursing at less than $40 per day while the
actual costs of providing housing, meals, activities, laundry, housekeeping, medication
management and assistance with activities of daily living resources is $115 per day. Seniors
who do not qualify for supplemental security income are expected to pay for personal care
services from their private funds. The cost to receive personal care services ranges from $3,500
– $8,000 per month depending on the location and amenities.
The Atrium is currently working with the Department of Human Services, the Ombudsman, and
other community healthcare providers to assist current residents and family members to
transition to their new home(s) over the next 60 days.