The Arbors at Stoneham

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  • Interior

    A cozy living room with two sofas, a patterned carpet, and decorative lamps.
  • Decor

    A warmly lit dining room with neatly arranged tables and chairs, featuring tasteful decor.
  • Living Room

    A cozy living room corner with a patterned chair, sofa, and a lamp by the window.
  • Building

    A large multi-story building with a grand entrance and numerous windows.
  • Windows

    A bright living room with a yellow sofa and wooden flooring.
  • Hardwood Floor

    A cozy living room with elegant furniture and warm lighting.
  • Paintings

    A cozy living room with a classic leather sofa, two chairs, and a wooden coffee table on a polished hardwood floor.

The Arbors at Stoneham

Information last verified:

140 Franklin Street, Stoneham, MA 02180

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

4.7 from 77 reviews
5 stars
66
4 stars
6
3 stars
2
2 stars
0
1 stars
3

Seniors.FYI Elite Community Awards

Top 5% Senior Living Community in 2019Top 5% Senior Living Community in 2020

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The Arbors at Stoneham Costs & Pricing

The Arbors at Stoneham offers a range of living options that reflect its commitment to providing quality care and comfort, though the pricing is notably higher than both Middlesex County averages and Massachusetts state figures. For instance, a one-bedroom unit at The Arbors is priced at $6,075 per month, exceeding the county's average of $5,920 and the state average of $5,349. Similarly, their semi-private rooms are billed at $6,650, which is above both Middlesex County's average of $6,395 and Massachusetts' overall average of $5,805. The two-bedroom accommodations stand out even more with a monthly fee of $8,025 compared to the county's $6,960 and the statewide figure of $6,151. While these prices may be higher than local competitors, they likely reflect the exceptional services and amenities provided by The Arbors at Stoneham.

Floor plansThe Arbors at StonehamMiddlesex CountyMassachusetts
1 Bedroom$6,075$5,920$5,349
Semi-Private$6,650$6,395$5,805
2 Bedrooms$8,025$6,960$6,151

Overall Review of The Arbors at Stoneham

Pros

  • pro The Arbors consistently impresses visitors with its wonderful staff and frequent engaging activities.
  • pro The building is well maintained and inviting.
  • pro The rooms are spacious and nicely appointed.
  • pro The staff are friendly, attentive, and quick to address any issues.
  • pro The community feels welcoming to new residents and makes everyone feel at home.
  • pro Families praise the Arbors for its caring, family-like atmosphere.
  • pro The Arbors is highly recommended for those seeking assisted living options.
  • pro The memory care team delivers exceptional care in a clean, welcoming environment.
  • pro Residents and staff feel like family; the environment is safe and well cared for.
  • pro The dining service and meals are well-regarded, with many residents enjoying them.
  • pro The executive director is excellent and leads the community effectively.
  • pro The Arbors is bright, cheery, and feels like home.

Cons

  • pro It was described as not a good or safe place by a reviewer.
  • pro There is a big turnover of directors, and the current executive director is abrupt and crass, not personable.
  • pro Care of residents, especially memory care, is poor; aides don’t give medications consistently, and residents aren’t watched, leading to falls and odors of urine.
  • pro The daytime nurse appears miserable, never smiles, and is not attentive.
  • pro There are very few activities and they are not engaging.
  • pro Memory care is short-staffed and lacks 24-hour staff; turnover is high and there aren’t enough care providers.
  • pro The facility has been cited by the state; staff can be rude and the director can become mean and unprofessional after being questioned.
  • pro It turned out not to be truly assisted living but more like apartments for elderly.
  • pro Showers and bathrooms are not consistently cleaned and laundry is not done in memory care.
  • pro The food quality could be improved.

Review

The Arbors at Stoneham is best suited for seniors who crave a warm, home-like environment with a strong sense of community. This is a campus where staff greet residents by name, and a genuine, neighborly mood pervades common spaces. The appeal rests not on clinical polish but on a lived-in feeling: well-maintained, bright apartments, visible pride in upkeep, and a calendar packed with social events that emphasize engagement over isolation. For couples or siblings seeking a shared living option, the availability of delux rooms and a roommate arrangement reinforces a practical, cost-conscious path without sacrificing comfort. In short, this community works best for families who want a lively, personable atmosphere where staff are consistently approachable and residents feel connected to something larger than their individual rooms.

Those weighing alternatives should pay particular attention to memory-care needs and leadership stability. Several reviews raise red flags about memory-care staffing and supervision, including reports of inconsistent medication administration and insufficient monitoring that sometimes led to injuries. A few accounts also describe abrupt or crass management and high director turnover, which can translate into uneven day-to-day experience and slower problem resolution. For families prioritizing 24/7 specialized attention, robust and predictable oversight, or a highly regimented medical model, alternative communities with steadier leadership and deeper memory-care continuity may prove a wiser match. Prospective residents who require consistent, around-the-clock supervision, clear protocol adherence, and steadfast administration should compare options where those baselines are clearly established.

The Arbors earns its broad praise through a powerful combination of warmth, responsiveness, and a truly community-driven feel. Across many reviews, staff are described as friendly, respectful, and quick to listen, with management that often goes “above and beyond” to address concerns. The building’s design, clean, bright, and navigable, supports a sense of comfort and independence, while dining and activities regularly earn compliments for variety and social energy. Families repeatedly note that staff know residents by name, treat them with genuine care, and foster an atmosphere that feels more like a home than a facility. When these strengths align, they dwarf occasional operational hiccups and create a consistent impression of safety, belonging, and daily purpose that residents and families value deeply.

Nevertheless, the safety and consistency questions embedded in the less favorable reviews cannot be dismissed. Memory care, in particular, appears vulnerable to staffing gaps, with some reports of delayed showers, unresolved laundry needs, and questionable call-button responses. The pattern of short-staffed shifts on memory floors, coupled with observed injuries and uncertain explanations, underscores a real risk whenever supervision is not consistently high. A few residents also described perceived brusqueness or impersonal communication from some nursing staff, reminding that bedside interactions can heavily color the overall sense of safety and trust. The prudent conclusion is that safety and satisfaction at The Arbors are highly contingent on current staffing levels and leadership stability; a prospective family should interview the memory-care director, tour during a busy shift, and probe for concrete, measurable protocols that govern care, progress, and incident reporting.

From a cost-and-value vantage point, The Arbors stands out for its inclusive pricing, a roommate option that materially reduces monthly outlay, and a strong sense that “everything is included” without surprise charges. The community’s aesthetic and amenities, sunrooms, accessible outdoor spaces, and well-appointed common areas, enhance the perception of getting substantial value for the level of service provided. Families frequently cite the affordability relative to comparable options, especially when they factor in the ability to share a two-person unit. While some reviews acknowledge that memory-care needs or higher levels of care can alter the cost calculus, the overarching message is clear: The Arbors delivers a high-touch, neighborly experience at a price point that many families find reasonable for the quality, locale, and social ecosystem offered.

In final judgment, The Arbors at Stoneham is a compelling choice for families prioritizing a warm, connected community with accessible, responsive staff and strong social programming. It reliably serves general assisted living well and shines for residents who want to feel “at home” in a smaller, neighborly setting where friendships form quickly and daily routines are infused with activities. The caveat lies with memory care: ensure current staffing levels are adequate, verify 24/7 coverage, and confirm that medication administration is consistently reliable. If memory-specific stability is non-negotiable or if prior experiences with leadership turnover have created lingering concerns, it is prudent to compare options that demonstrate a steadier memory-care CARE model. The Arbors can be the right move when due diligence is performed, when tours, conversations with the executive director and memory-care director, and candid conversations with current residents confirm that the promised culture of care is being lived day-to-day.

Features

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.
  • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.

Amenities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • 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.
  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Ground floor units Ground floor unitsGround floor units are important for seniors because they provide easy accessibility, reduced risk of falls and injuries, and convenience for those with mobility issues. Seniors can avoid climbing stairs or using elevators, making daily tasks and activities more manageable and enjoyable.
  • Handicap accessible Handicap accessible"Handicap accessible" amenities are crucial for seniors to ensure they can easily navigate and access facilities, services, and activities without barriers or limitations due to physical impairments. This promotes independence, safety, and inclusivity for seniors in senior living communities.
  • 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.
  • Outdoor common areas Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.
  • Respite or short term stays offered Respite or short term stays offeredRespite or short term stays provide seniors with a temporary solution when their regular caregiver is unavailable, offering them the opportunity to receive additional care and support during times of need, while also giving caregivers a chance to rest and recharge.
  • Wheelchair accessible showers Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.

Transportation

  • Gen Edw L Logan International (9 miles away) Gen Edw L Logan International (9 miles away)

Care Services

  • 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."
  • 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.

Dining

  • Guest meals Guest mealsGuest meals are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide an opportunity for socialization and companionship. Sharing a meal with friends, family, or new acquaintances can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, promote a sense of community, and enhance overall well-being. Additionally, guest meals allow seniors to enjoy delicious food in a comfortable setting without the hassle of cooking or cleaning up, making dining a pleasurable and stress-free experience.
  • 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.
  • Professional chef Professional chefProfessional chefs are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide nutritious and delicious meals that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. A professional chef can ensure that seniors are receiving balanced, flavorful meals that support their overall health and well-being.
  • Room service Room serviceRoom service is important for seniors in a senior living community because it provides convenience and allows them to have their meals delivered directly to their room. This can be especially beneficial for seniors who may have mobility issues or difficulty accessing the dining area. Room service ensures that seniors are able to receive nutritious meals without having to navigate through the facility, allowing them to maintain their independence and overall well-being.

Activities

  • Art classes Art classesArt classes are important for seniors because they provide a creative outlet, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, promote socialization, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Brain fitness Brain fitnessBrain fitness is important for seniors as it helps to maintain cognitive function, memory, and overall mental well-being. Engaging in activities that challenge the brain can help prevent cognitive decline and promote a healthier, more fulfilling quality of life in older adults.
  • Cooking classes Cooking classesCooking classes are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, enhance cognitive skills, promote healthy eating habits, and boost confidence in the kitchen.
  • Day trips and outings Day trips and outingsDay trips and outings are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and a break from daily routines. These experiences can enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • 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.
  • Educational speakers / life long learning Educational speakers / life long learningEducational speakers and lifelong learning opportunities are crucial for seniors as they provide mental stimulation, promote social engagement, and contribute to overall well-being. Continuous learning helps seniors stay mentally sharp, build new skills, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. It also allows them to stay connected to the world around them and fosters a sense of community within senior living facilities.
  • Happy hour Happy hourHappy hour is important for seniors as it provides a social activity that promotes camaraderie and reduces feelings of loneliness or isolation. It also offers an opportunity for older adults to relax, unwind, and enjoy some drinks or snacks in a fun and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Live dance or theater performances Live dance or theater performancesLive dance or theater performances are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and emotional engagement. These performances can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, while also offering a sense of connection to the arts and culture. Additionally, watching live performances can bring joy and create lasting memories for seniors in their later years.
  • Live musical performances Live musical performancesLive musical performances can provide seniors with a sense of joy, nostalgia, and connection. Music has the power to evoke emotions and memories, improve mood and cognitive function, and foster social interaction among seniors. It can also serve as a form of therapy and stress relief for older adults, making it an important activity to include in senior living communities.
  • Live well programs Live well programs"Live well programs are essential for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social engagement, and mental stimulation, ultimately promoting overall health and well-being in later years."
  • Yoga / chair yoga Yoga / chair yogaYoga and chair yoga are important for seniors as they promote flexibility, balance, strength, and overall wellbeing. These practices can help improve mobility, reduce stress, and enhance mental clarity, ultimately leading to a higher quality of life in their senior years.

Description

The Arbors at Stoneham is a memory care-focused assisted living community located in Stoneham, MA. This community provides specialized care for individuals with memory impairments, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for residents.

Residents at The Arbors at Stoneham can enjoy a variety of amenities and services that cater to their specific needs. The community offers various activities on-site to keep residents engaged and stimulated, such as brain fitness exercises, cooking classes, day trips, and outings. There are also devotional services available off-site for those who wish to participate.

The living accommodations are designed with convenience in mind, with ground floor units that are easily accessible and wheelchair-friendly. Each unit is equipped with air-conditioning to ensure comfort during all seasons. Residents have access to both indoor and outdoor common areas where they can socialize and relax.

For dining, The Arbors at Stoneham provides delicious meals prepared by a professional chef. Room service is also available for those who prefer to dine in the privacy of their own room.

Medication management is one of the key care services offered at this community, ensuring that residents receive their medications accurately and on time.

In terms of nearby amenities, The Arbors at Stoneham boasts proximity to cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, and restaurants. This allows residents to easily access these essential services without having to travel far from the community.

Overall, The Arbors at Stoneham offers a supportive and engaging environment for individuals requiring memory care assistance. With a range of amenities and services tailored specifically for their needs, residents can enjoy an enriched quality of life in this assisted living community.

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Nearby Places of Interest

Stoneham, Massachusetts is a vibrant community with easy access to essential services such as pharmacies, restaurants, physicians, parks, cafes, places of worship, transportation options, theaters and hospitals. There are multiple Walgreens and CVS Pharmacies within a few miles, making it convenient for seniors to fill their prescriptions. The town also offers a variety of dining options including Liberty Bell Roast Beef and Seafood, Soc's Icecream, and Kelly's Roast Beef. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are several parks nearby such as Sheepfold in Middlesex Fells Reservation and Melrose Common. Additionally, Stoneham has excellent healthcare facilities like Lahey Clinic and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital. With reliable public transportation options and entertainment venues like AMC Assembly Row 12 theater close by, seniors will find this area to be a well-rounded and convenient place to live.

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.2 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.7 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (1.5 miles)
  • Liberty Bell Roast Beef and Seafood (1.6 miles)
  • Soc's Icecream (2.4 miles)
  • The Brickyard (3.2 miles)
  • Hooters (3.3 miles)
  • Kelly's Roast Beef (3.4 miles)
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill (3.7 miles)

Physicians

  • North Suburban Orthopedic Associates (1.8 miles)
  • Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates (5.1 miles)
  • Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates (5.7 miles)
  • Lahey Clinic Ophthalmology (5.9 miles)
  • Laser Gentle Medical Spa (6.7 miles)
  • Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates (7.1 miles)

Parks

  • Sheepfold, Middlesex Fells Reservation (1.8 miles)
  • Middlesex Fells Reservation (1.9 miles)
  • Melrose Common (2.3 miles)
  • John M. Devir Park (3.9 miles)
  • Tufts Park (5.2 miles)
  • Mary Cummings Park (5.7 miles)
  • Grove-Cedar Bike Path (5.8 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (3 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.5 miles)
  • Pressed Cafe (6.3 miles)
  • Cafe Rustica (6.4 miles)
  • Forge Baking Company (6.5 miles)
  • Tatte Bakery & Cafe (7.3 miles)
  • Perfecto's Caffe (7.3 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Agnes Parish-Arlington (5.1 miles)
  • The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (7.2 miles)
  • Lynn Spanish Branch Latter-day Saints (7.2 miles)
  • St Paul Parish, Harvard Square (7.4 miles)

Transportation

  • Wellington Station (5.2 miles)
  • MBTA Davis Square Station (5.7 miles)
  • Assembly Station (5.8 miles)
  • Porter Square MBTA Station (6.3 miles)
  • Sullivan Square Station (6.4 miles)
  • Ballardvale Mbta Station (6.5 miles)
  • MBTA Union Square Station (6.8 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Assembly Row 12 (5.6 miles)
  • AMC Burlington Cinema 1 (6.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Lahey Clinic (5.9 miles)
  • Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital (7.1 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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