St. Francis Assisted Living Program in Trenton, NJ

Information last verified:

601 Hamilton Avenue, Trenton, NJ 08629

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

2.7 from 100 reviews
5 stars
37
4 stars
5
3 stars
4
2 stars
3
1 stars
51

Overall Review of St. Francis Assisted Living Program

Pros

  • pro The nursing staff is regarded by some reviewers as the #1 in America.
  • pro The nurse Sam was incredible, very friendly and warm, and ER visits were quick.
  • pro Nurse Kelly is epic, knowledgeable, and kind.
  • pro The service is quick and effective, with problems resolved.
  • pro The pre-admission and outpatient radiology staff provide excellent care, and security officers are polite and understanding.
  • pro The COVID-19 vaccination clinic is A+, well organized, timely, and kind.
  • pro A great group of friendly, helpful, and caring staff is frequently noted.
  • pro The care team is attentive, caring, and understanding, with Dr. Stephen Vetrano praised for his bedside manner.
  • pro In the ER, Tess provides unbelievable bedside manner and professionalism.

Cons

  • pro The hospital is filthy and smells like urine, making patients want to leave.
  • pro Staff are rude, unprofessional, and rush patients out, often refusing basic needs like water.
  • pro The facility is severely understaffed, leading to long waits and insufficient attention to patients.
  • pro Reviewers allege medical negligence or harm, including botched procedures and misdiagnoses.
  • pro There are accusations of HIPAA violations and discharging patients with someone else’s paperwork.
  • pro The hospital has been described as a "death factory" due to neglect and poor treatment.
  • pro Doctors and nurses are accused of not listening to patients or taking their concerns seriously.
  • pro The hospital environment is poorly maintained, with broken elevators and dirty rooms.

Review

St. Francis Assisted Living Program in Trenton is best suited for seniors who want a small, intimate care environment and for families that are prepared to stay actively involved in day-to-day oversight. The strongest appeal lies in personal, hands-on attention from a core group of staff and a setting that can feel like a close-knit community when operations run smoothly. For residents who prize warmth and direct interactions with caregivers over formal, highly structured systems, this facility can feel comfortable and welcoming. However, that same intimacy makes consistency and reliability more variable, so it is not the right fit for every situation.

There are clear reasons to consider alternatives, especially for families prioritizing dependable staffing, spotless conditions, and uniformly attentive care. Several reviewers describe pervasive understaffing, uneven behavior among front-line staff, and rough experiences in routines like calls for help, meal delivery, and discharge planning. When medical or personal needs are urgent, the impression that caretaking priorities shift or that delays are common can be a deal-breaker. For seniors with complex health concerns or those who rely on steady, predictable service, other communities with stronger staffing models and clearer protocols are likely to deliver greater peace of mind.

The reported pros do exist, but they struggle to offset the dominant cons. On the plus side, some staff members are described as genuinely caring, patient, and attentive, and there are moments of efficient, compassionate care, particularly when the patient encounters certain nurses or units that still uphold high standards. Instances of quick ER visits or polite interactions from security and lab staff also surface as reminders that quality care can emerge in this setting. Still, these positives appear episodic rather than systemic, and they rarely counterbalance the broad pattern of inconsistent service and frequent complaints about cleanliness, communication, and responsiveness.

The principal drawbacks appear repeatedly across reviews: fluctuating quality of care, frequent understaffing, and reports of rude or unprofessional behavior from some employees. The facility is described as dirty or poorly maintained by some families, with complaints about odors, aging infrastructure, and slow or unreliable responses to call bells. Discharges, scheduling, and diagnosis processes are cited as disorganized or mishandled, including concerns about HIPAA violations or misdirected patient information in rare but memorable cases. While a minority of posts praise individual caregivers or care teams, the overarching narrative emphasizes risk of slipping standards and uneven accountability.

In practical terms, families considering this program should go in with a clear checklist and a readiness to supervise. Ask for current staffing ratios on each shift, request direct introductions to the care management team, and observe how staff respond to call lights during peak hours. Inspect common areas and rooms for cleanliness, note maintenance of the building, and verify meal quality and nutrition oversight. Crucially, request verifiable references from recent residents or families, and interview current residents about their daily routines, pain management, and communication with nurses and doctors. If ongoing, reliable oversight by family or a trusted advocate is not an option, this community becomes a higher-risk choice.

Overall, St. Francis Assisted Living Program presents a mixed proposition: a tangible sense of intimate, person-centered care in the right moments, tempered by frequent, well-documented concerns about staffing, cleanliness, and consistency. For families who can tolerate a less predictable environment in exchange for a warmer, more individualized feel, it may still work. For those whose top priorities are reliability, flawless upkeep, and uniformly high service standards, exploring alternatives is strongly advised. A disciplined, comparative tour, focusing on staffing, cleanliness, and real-world responsiveness, will reveal whether this community can rise to the expectations of long-term living.

Features

Housing

  • 21 resident community capacity 21 resident community capacity

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.

Amenities

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Transportation

  • Trenton-Mercer County (6 miles away) Trenton-Mercer County (6 miles away)

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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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

  • 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.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • 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.

Description

The St. Francis Assisted Living Program in Trenton, NJ offers a comfortable and convenient living environment for seniors in need of assistance with daily tasks. Our community provides a range of amenities to ensure residents have everything they need for a fulfilling and enjoyable lifestyle.

Each apartment is fully furnished and includes cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and a telephone for staying connected with loved ones. Residents can relax and socialize in the outdoor spaces or take advantage of our on-site garden. Housekeeping services are provided to ensure a clean and tidy living environment.

Meals are an important part of our community, and our dining room offers delicious meals prepared by our staff according to special dietary restrictions. Our dedicated kitchenette allows residents to prepare snacks or light meals as desired.

Our caring staff is available 24 hours a day to provide supervision and assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also coordinate with health care providers to ensure residents receive the necessary medical attention and medication management.

In addition to physical well-being, we prioritize mental wellness through our mental wellness program tailored to each resident's needs. Regularly scheduled activities are available for residents to participate in, including resident-run activities and daily scheduled events.

Convenience is key at St. Francis Assisted Living Program, as we are located close to various amenities in the area. Nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options (including medical transportation), and hospitals provide easy access to essential services.

Our assisted living community strives to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where seniors can enjoy their golden years while receiving the support they need.

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (0.5 miles)
  • Episcopo's Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.1 miles)

Transportation

  • Trenton Transit Center (0.7 miles)
  • Hamilton Station (3.3 miles)
  • Trenton-Mercer Airport (TTN) (5.8 miles)
  • NJT - Princeton Junction Station (9.3 miles)

Physicians

  • Nottingham Medical Associates (1.4 miles)
  • Pediatrics by Nights (2.5 miles)
  • Daniel Kessell Dermatology (3.3 miles)
  • Campus Eye Group (3.3 miles)
  • Rwj Occupational Health (3.5 miles)
  • Altus Medical Care (3.9 miles)
  • Delaware Valley Family Eye Care (4.2 miles)

Cafes

  • Van Gogh Cafe (1.8 miles)
  • Panera Bread (4.2 miles)
  • Panera Bread (5.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (6.3 miles)
  • Starbucks (6.4 miles)

Restaurants

  • Rat's Restaurant (2 miles)
  • Broad Street Diner (2.2 miles)
  • Sonic Drive-In (2.3 miles)
  • Taco Bell (2.7 miles)
  • Morrisville Tavern (3.1 miles)
  • McDonald's (3.2 miles)
  • Taco Bell (3.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Mercer Family Health Center (2.1 miles)
  • Trenton Psychiatric Hospital (3.8 miles)
  • Frankford Hospital-Bucks County (7 miles)
  • Capital Health Medical Center (7.7 miles)

Parks

  • Cadwalader Park (2.7 miles)
  • Sharp's Lane Crestwood Park (3.2 miles)
  • Veteran's Park Hamilton (3.3 miles)
  • Delaware River Canal Tow Path (5.5 miles)
  • Mercer County Park (6.2 miles)
  • Washington Crossing Historic Park (8.8 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Gregory the Great Roman Catholic Church (5.4 miles)
  • Baps Shri Swaminarayan Mandir, New Jersey (9 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is St. Francis Assisted Living Program?

Nearby Communities

  • Life St. Francis

    Life St. Francis

    Hamilton, NJ

     
     

    pro Very convenient location with easy access to multiple nearby amenities (cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, transportation, and hospitals).

  • Trent Center East Apartments

    Trent Center East Apartments

    Trenton, NJ

    2.7 from 10 reviews
     

    pro Excellent proximity to pharmacies, physicians, hospitals, dining, parks, and transit.

  • Trenton Center West

    Trenton Center West

    Trenton, NJ

    3.8 from 13 reviews
     

    pro Specialized diabetic care with convenient access to nearby medical and dining amenities

  • Luther Arms Apartments

    Luther Arms Apartments

    Trenton, NJ

    4 from 48 reviews
    $1,482 / month

    pro Helpful staff with move-in assistance and a welcoming 55+ community.

  • Riverside Nursing And Rehabilitation Center

    Riverside Nursing And Rehabilitation Center

    Trenton, NJ

    4.6 from 49 reviews
     

    pro Compassionate nursing care and effective rehabilitation improving residents' strength.

  • Waters Edge Healthcare & Rehab

    Waters Edge Healthcare & Rehab

    Trenton, NJ

    2.5 from 2 reviews
     

    pro Compassionate wound care and rehab staff.

  • The Landing of Hamilton

    The Landing of Hamilton

    Hamilton, NJ

    4.4 from 58 reviews
    $4,795 to $7,995 / month

    pro Attentive, safe care in a clean, inviting environment with friendly staff and engaging activities.

  • Abrams Residence

    Abrams Residence

    Trenton, NJ

    5 from 2 reviews
    $7,020 to $11,670 / month

    pro Personalized care with engaging activities and spacious, furnished apartments.

  • Preferred Care At Mercer

    Preferred Care At Mercer

    Ewing, NJ

    4.7 from 100 reviews
     

    pro Extensive on-site care and amenities (24/7 supervision, medication management, dining, activities).

Related Resources

  • independent living vs assisted livingExploring the Path to Senior Living: A Comprehensive Look at Independent Living and Assisted Living

    The article examines senior housing options, detailing the distinctions between independent living and assisted living, along with the emerging "independent assisted living" model that blends both approaches. It highlights the importance of assessing individual needs, preferences, and financial factors in making informed decisions about suitable living arrangements for seniors.

  • is assisted living tax deductibleIs Assisted Living Deductible on Your Taxes? Understanding the Complexities of Assisted Living Expenses and Deductions

    The deductibility of assisted living expenses on taxes hinges on factors like the individual's medical condition and service nature, typically requiring the resident to be "chronically ill" per IRS definitions. Taxpayers may deduct eligible medical expenses related to personal care services but generally not rent unless primarily for medical care, and they should maintain thorough documentation to support claims while considering itemizing versus standard deductions.

  • va benefits for assisted livingAssisted Living Support for Veterans: A Complete and Detailed Overview

    The guide highlights the importance of assisted living facilities for aging veterans needing daily support, discusses unique challenges they face, and outlines available financial assistance from the VA, including the Aid and Attendance program. It emphasizes understanding eligibility criteria and navigating the VA system to access necessary benefits effectively.