After 43 years, the Afton Care Center will be closing its doors for the last time Oct. 21.
Administrators cited continuing low numbers of residents and an inability to find and retain qualified staff as the reasons for closing.
The struggle to find qualified staff is an industry-wide issue, causing difficulties for many facilities, especially in rural areas.
With declining numbers of residents comes decreased revenue, which has made it difficult for the facility to maintain its building and equipment. The center needs new equipment and repair on existing equipment in order to be in compliance with regulations.
Declining numbers of residents in 2004 and 2005 caused the administrators to discuss closing, but the numbers went back up. In 2010, a plan to build an assisted living facility in order to sustain the population was rejected due to lack of finances.
The care center board attempted to find a buyer for the facility rather than closing, but it was unsuccessful.
Wayne Carlson, Afton Care Center board president said, “Although this has been a difficult decision and situation, our facility will continue to support our residents, their families and staff members in the process of finding a new home or future employment. Our goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible.”
Afton Care Center will be hosting a trauma-informed care session for residents and family members 5 to 6 p.m. Sept. 4 to help residents with their transitions to new facilities. The public is invited to attend.