Grafton House in Saint Augustine, FL

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Grafton House

Grafton House in Saint Augustine, FL

168 Marine Street, Saint Augustine, FL 32084

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.7 from 3 reviews
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Assisted Living Board and Care Home Respite Care

Overall Review of Grafton House

Pros

  • pro The Grafton House provides a one-on-one feel with caregivers and residents.
  • pro It offers home-cooked meals, including steak and mashed potatoes.
  • pro The facility is fully serviced with internet, private or double rooms, television, and laundry.
  • pro The Grafton House feels like a home within a home and is family operated.
  • pro It is conveniently located near downtown St. Augustine, with transportation to the downtown, bay, and beach.
  • pro It supports independence without rushing residents and fosters lasting friendships with friendly staff and residents.

Cons

  • pro The retirement home was a death sentence for her grandmother.
  • pro The reviewer regrets not suing and wishes they could go back in time.
  • pro Furniture fell on her.
  • pro Bed sores set in.
  • pro She died within a year of being there.
  • pro Their last meal was a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.
  • pro The facility is described as a place where loved ones would not be cared for.

Review

Grafton House in Saint Augustine is best suited for seniors who want a small, home-like setting where care feels personal and the pace stays intimate. It works well for residents who prize direct contact with caregivers, flexible routines, and a neighborhood feel that keeps social connections thriving without a large, impersonal campus. For someone who wants to preserve a high degree of independence while still having nearby support, this community offers a tempered balance: enough structure to stay safe, but enough freedom to avoid the feeling of being institutionalized. It is not a fit for those who require consistent, hands-on medical oversight or specialized memory care, as the smaller operation naturally concentrates resources and staffing in ways larger facilities can.

Those considering alternatives should weigh the needs of loved ones who require significant ongoing nursing, wound care, or 24/7 monitoring. The most pressing caveat is safety and medical responsiveness in a small setting. Families facing high risk of falls, complex care regimens, or frequent medical interventions may find larger communities with dedicated nursing staff and on-site physicians a more reliable match. The stark contrast between the highly positive impressions in one review and the severe safety failings alleged in another makes it essential to scrutinize staffing levels, supervision, and incident history before deciding to commit.

On the upside, the strongest pro is the one-on-one, homey atmosphere. The smaller size is described as a gateway to close relationships with both staff and fellow residents, and the environment is portrayed as less rushed than bigger facilities. Added amenities that matter: private or double rooms, in-room internet, television, and laundry, with a sense that daily life can resemble living in a true home rather than a clinical setting. The ability to tailor meals, along with home-cooked options, contributes to comfort and continuity for residents who value dignity and familiar routines. Proximity to downtown Saint Augustine and access to transportation for excursions to the bay or the beach further enhances quality of life for independent-minded seniors who still want social outings or a welcome taste of the local scene.

Those pros, however, must be weighed against the most serious concerns raised by unhappy families. The most alarming report describes a scenario in which a resident suffered severe neglect - furniture toppling, bed sores forming, and a decline culminating in death within a year. Even if this account is not universally representative, it signals a risk plain enough to demand aggressive inquiry: ask about staff-to-resident ratios, training, wound-care protocols, and how quickly staff respond to urgency. Observations during visits, conversations with current residents, and a careful review of state licensing inspections can uncover whether such cautions reflect an isolated lapse or a recurring vulnerability. In other words, the positive buzz about intimate care does not erase the need for rigorous due diligence.

For families choosing where to place a loved one, the decision hinges on a trade-off between intimate attention and formal safety guarantees. If independence, social warmth, and a home-like routine take priority - and if the resident has relatively modest medical needs - the Grafton House model can deliver meaningful quality of life. But if the calculus shifts toward predictable medical support, clear safety protocols, and a track record of consistent clinical oversight, it is prudent to explore alternatives first. Prospective residents should insist on a current tour focused on caregiver engagement, review the latest licensing reports, and request a direct conversation with the nursing staff to gauge whether the pace and proficiency align with expectations.

In the final analysis, Grafton House is a strong contender for families seeking a compact, familial setting near downtown with genuine opportunities for friendship and personal attention. It is not a universal remedy for all aging needs. The right resident is someone who wants to preserve autonomy in a smaller, more personalized environment and is comfortable with a potential trade-off in formal medical resources. Those who cannot accept even a remote risk of care gaps, or who require robust, on-site medical and wound-care support, should systematically compare other options - preferably with live observations, transparent staffing data, and a clearly demonstrated safety record - before making a commitment.

Features

Housing

  • 20 resident community capacity 20 resident community capacity
  • Studio apartments Studio apartmentsStudio apartments are important for seniors because they offer a smaller, more manageable living space that is easier to navigate and maintain as physical abilities decline. Additionally, studio apartments provide seniors with independence and privacy while still being part of a community that offers support and social opportunities.

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
  • Board and Care Home Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support in their golden years.
  • Respite Care Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.

Amenities

  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Devotional services off-site Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Laundry LaundryLaundry services are important for seniors as they may have difficulty with physical tasks such as bending, lifting, or carrying heavy loads. Having access to laundry services can help seniors maintain personal hygiene, cleanliness, and independence in their daily lives.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Ambulatory care Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Diabetic care Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteActivities off-site are crucial for seniors as they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity outside of their usual routine. This helps combat feelings of isolation and boredom, promotes overall well-being, and allows seniors to remain engaged in the community.
  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Devotional activities offsite Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Languages Spoken

  • English EnglishEnglish is important for seniors as it allows them to communicate effectively with healthcare providers, understand important information related to their health and medications, stay connected with loved ones, and engage in social activities within their communities. It also opens up opportunities for lifelong learning and intellectual stimulation.

Description

Grafton House in Saint Augustine, FL provides a warm and inviting environment for seniors in need of board and care home and respite care services. Our dedicated staff offers 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also coordinate with healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care for our residents.

At Grafton House, we strive to provide amenities that enhance the comfort and well-being of our residents. Our on-site beautician and beauty salon offer convenient options for personal grooming. Residents can enjoy their favorite shows with cable or satellite TV in their fully furnished rooms. Our indoor common areas provide a cozy space for socializing, while our outdoor garden allows residents to relax amidst nature.

We understand the importance of maintaining a clean and orderly living environment, which is why we offer housekeeping services and laundry facilities. Our kitchenettes allow residents to prepare snacks or light meals if they prefer. We also provide delicious meals tailored to special dietary restrictions.

Staying active and engaged is important to us at Grafton House. We offer scheduled daily activities on-site as well as community-sponsored events nearby. Devotional services are available off-site for residents who wish to maintain their spiritual connections.

Convenience is key when it comes to accessing essential services, which is why we have cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, places of worship, and hospitals located nearby.

At Grafton House, we prioritize the overall well-being of our residents by providing a comfortable living environment and personalized care services.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Saint Augustine, Florida is a vibrant and convenient location for senior living, offering a mix of parks, restaurants, cafes, physicians, places of worship, pharmacies, and hospitals within close proximity. Dr Robert B. Hayling Freedom Park and Maria Sanchez Lake provide tranquil outdoor spaces for leisurely strolls or picnics. A variety of dining options such as Preserved Restaurant and Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille offer delicious meals just a short distance away. Residents have access to quality healthcare services with providers like Island Doctors and Orthopaedic Associates of St Augustine nearby. Additionally, there are several places of worship for spiritual nourishment and pharmacies for convenient medication needs. The presence of reputable hospitals like St Augustine Surgery Center ensures easy accessibility to medical care when required. Overall, this area offers a well-rounded community with essential amenities suited for senior living in Saint Augustine.

Parks

  • Dr Robert B. Hayling Freedom Park (0.5 miles)
  • Maria Sanchez Lake (0.5 miles)
  • Anastasia State Park (1.7 miles)
  • Davenport Park (2 miles)
  • Ron Parker Park (2.4 miles)
  • Herbie & Annette Wiles Park (2.4 miles)

Restaurants

  • Preserved Restaurant (0.6 miles)
  • Gas Full Service Restaurant (0.8 miles)
  • Candlelight South Restaurant (0.8 miles)
  • St Augustine Fish Camp (0.8 miles)
  • Otter’s On The Water (0.8 miles)
  • Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille (0.8 miles)
  • O'Steen's Restaurant (0.8 miles)

Physicians

  • Island Doctors (0.7 miles)
  • Anastasia Family Care PA (0.8 miles)
  • Eye Center Of St. Augustine (1 miles)
  • David J Gross (1 miles)
  • Neurology Care (1.1 miles)
  • Grimes James M MD Faaos (1.1 miles)
  • Orthopaedic Associates of St Augustine (1.1 miles)

Cafes

  • The Kookaburra (0.8 miles)
  • Relampago Coffee Lab (0.9 miles)
  • Harbor View Cafe (0.9 miles)
  • Kekes Breakfast Café (1.7 miles)
  • Panera Bread (1.7 miles)
  • Dos Coffee & Wine (2.8 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Memorial Presbyterian Church (0.9 miles)
  • Mission of Nombre de Dios & La Leche Shrine (1.6 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Winn-Dixie (1.1 miles)
  • Oldest Drugstore (1.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.5 miles)
  • Rx-Mart Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • St Augustine Surgery Center (1.7 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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