Columbia Lutheran Home

Columbia Lutheran Home cares for the whole person -- mind, body, and spirit. Preserving the traditions of Columbia's founders, we offer a supportive environment, celebrating life. Pastor C.R. Swanson, our first Administrator, pioneered social services and integrated aged care. This visionary drives our mission. In 1920, it was established as a home for elderly Scandinavian immigrants. The Columbia Conference for the Aged was its name. People came to Montana. At first, the "Home" was popular and developed. The "Home" continued to develop: on its 10th birthday, 72 residents settled into an adjoining annex (now called the Hospice). Rev Everett Jensen watched Columbia's administrator, inspired by Denmark's social model, where he studied the "medical model" in 1970 and not the medical model. In 1975, Columbia was recognized for establishing one of the first Adult Daycare Programs; personal care and other activities were offered. In 1980, Columbia founded the first Washington nursing home to provide respite care and emergency beds for caregiver families. It was the nation's first pilot program to treat AIDS patients in 1986. In 1995, Club 24 Senior Living at Homes trademarked the use of home healthcare services. In 2017, four individuals had compassionate, special suites opened for dignity and intimacy in the last days of their lives. Columbia Lutheran celebrated its centennial in 2020, thanking its volunteers, staff, and donors. Our residents, families, and loved ones appreciate their dedication every day.