Berkshire Commons

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  • Interior

    A cozy living room with a television, comfortable seating, and homey decor.
  • Decor

    A cozy living room with a fireplace, bookshelves, and comfortable armchairs.
  • Building

    A two-story building with a prominent entrance and classic columns.
  • Trees

    A beautifully landscaped garden with a winding pathway and various bushes and grasses.
  • Windows

    A cozy dining area with elegantly set tables and chairs, adorned with floral centerpieces near large windows.
  • Artwork

    A cozy waiting room with two armchairs, a small table, lamps, and artwork on the wall.
  • Floor Plan

    A floor plan depicting the layout of an apartment with labeled rooms.
  • Outdoor

    People enjoying an outdoor concert in a park, seated around a gazebo on a sunny day.
  • Exercise Equipment

    A physical therapy room equipped with exercise equipment, including mats, fitness balls, cones, and weights.
  • Salon

    A cozy salon interior with hair styling chairs and dryers.

Berkshire Commons

5485 Perkiomen Avenue, Reading, PA 19606

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

4.8 from 51 reviews
5 stars
43
4 stars
7
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 stars
0

Assisted Living Memory Care

Berkshire Commons Costs & Pricing

Berkshire Commons presents a premium living experience with its monthly costs significantly higher than both Berks County and the broader state of Pennsylvania. For instance, a studio at Berkshire Commons is priced at $4,800, which contrasts sharply with the county average of $3,338 and the state average of $3,737. Similarly, the one-bedroom option is available for $5,790, compared to $4,043 in Berks County and $4,006 statewide. These elevated prices reflect not only the quality of amenities and services offered at Berkshire Commons but also its commitment to providing an exceptional living environment tailored for residents seeking an enriched lifestyle.

Floor plansBerkshire CommonsBerks CountyPennsylvania
Studio$4,800$3,338$3,737
1 Bedroom$5,790$4,043$4,006

Overall Review of Berkshire Commons

Pros

  • pro The staff at Berkshire Commons is friendly, helpful, and accommodating.
  • pro The community is well-maintained and has a homey feel.
  • pro Residents enjoy the food and a variety of activities.
  • pro The staff goes above and beyond to provide exceptional care during the pandemic.
  • pro Berkshire Commons is praised for its cleanliness and the quality of its food.
  • pro The staff is described as friendly, caring, and hardworking.
  • pro Residents appreciate the range of activities available to them.
  • pro The facility is comfortable and provides excellent care.
  • pro Visitors are impressed by the knowledge, compassion, and helpfulness of the staff members.
  • pro The community offers a wide array of amenities and services that make residents happy.
  • pro These statements have been paraphrased for brevity.)

Cons

  • pro Overall, it was not the right fit for their loved one.
  • pro They wished there were more staff at Berkshire Commons.
  • pro The food was only fair and could use improvement.
  • pro Some combination of food options need work.
  • pro They do not think there is another place where they would receive such great care.
  • pro They believe the staff should have more help because they work very hard.
  • pro The food was good, but the combinations needed improvement.
  • pro They found the staff to be professional and efficient, but did not mention being friendly or caring.
  • pro While the experience was overall positive, they mentioned that they would go back to their apartment after their stay at Berkshire Commons, suggesting it may not be a long-term fit for them.
  • pro Although they found the community beautiful with friendly staff, they did not specifically mention positive experiences with care or services provided.
  • pro note that these statements are based on interpretation and may vary depending on individual perspectives and contexts.

Review

Berkshire Commons, a senior living community, has garnered positive reviews from its residents and their families. One reviewer expressed their deep appreciation for being a part of the Berkshire Commons team for nearly six years. They found working in this job to be rewarding and highlighted the wonderful team they are fortunate to be a part of.

Another reviewer mentioned that the staff at Berkshire Commons was the primary reason they chose this community for their loved one. They were particularly impressed with a lady who assisted families with the setup process and went over costs, describing her as friendly, helpful, and accommodating. The reviewer also praised her boss, who oversees the entire facility, for being wonderful. Overall, they were pleased with the care their loved one received at Berkshire Commons.

While some reviewers had mixed feelings about Berkshire Commons, many shared positive experiences. One individual commended the facility for doing a terrific job caring for their mother until the end. They highly recommended Berkshire Commons due to enjoyable food and engaging activities such as bingo, music, entertainment, and coloring.

Another reviewer appreciated how Berkshire Commons felt more like a hotel than a typical nursing home setting. This person noted that the staff members were friendly and well-known by all residents. They also mentioned that their loved ones were kept busy with various activities and based on their positive experience so far, would recommend Berkshire Commons to other families.

A satisfied family member praised Berkshire Commons as a great facility with an exceptional staff who were friendly and helpful during their mother's stay. They stated that if they needed similar care for themselves in the future, they would choose to stay there and would also recommend it to others.

One reviewer expressed gratitude towards the caring staff at Berkshire Commons during the pandemic. They commended them for implementing exceptional protocols that resulted in low infection rates among patients while ensuring maximum care during minor or major crises experienced by their loved one.

Another individual praised Berkshire Commons for providing amazing care to their mother along with stringent safety precautions and delicious food. They were very pleased with their decision to choose Berkshire Commons.

Multiple reviewers mentioned the friendliness of the staff and their dedication to providing excellent care. Activities, cleanliness, and accommodations were also praised, making residents feel comfortable and entertained.

In conclusion, the reviews about Berkshire Commons reflect a generally positive experience for both residents and their families. The staff's friendly and caring attitude, engaging activities, clean facilities, and delicious food were commonly praised. While some reviewers had minor concerns or mixed feelings, the overall sentiment was one of gratitude and satisfaction with Berkshire Commons as a senior living community.

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.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

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.
  • Bath tubs Bath tubsBath tubs are important for seniors because they provide a safe and relaxing way to bathe, helping to prevent slips and falls while promoting independence and overall well-being.
  • 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.
  • Devotional services on-site Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
  • 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.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • 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.
  • 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

  • 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."
  • 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.
  • High acuity care High acuity careHigh acuity care is important for seniors because it provides specialized medical attention and support for individuals with complex medical needs. This level of care ensures that seniors receive the appropriate treatment and assistance to maintain their health and quality of life as they age.
  • Incontinence care Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.
  • 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

  • Anytime dining Anytime diningAnytime dining is important for seniors because it allows them the flexibility to eat when they are hungry, rather than being restricted to set meal times. This can be especially beneficial for those with medical conditions or medications that affect their appetite, as well as those who may have difficulty adhering to a strict dining schedule. Overall, anytime dining promotes independence and overall well-being for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Gluten-free Gluten-freeGluten-free options are important for seniors as they are more prone to digestive issues and dietary sensitivities. Offering gluten-free meal choices in senior living communities can help improve their overall health and well-being.
  • 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.
  • International cuisine International cuisineInternational cuisine is important for seniors because it offers a variety of flavors, ingredients, and cultural experiences that can help keep their meals interesting and enjoyable. Trying new dishes can also stimulate the senses and provide different nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being. Additionally, exploring international cuisine can bring back fond memories of travels or childhood experiences, making mealtime more nostalgic and fulfilling for seniors.
  • Low / no sodium Low / no sodiumLow/no sodium options are important for seniors because excessive sodium intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and other health issues commonly experienced by older adults. By choosing low/no sodium foods, seniors can better manage their health and reduce their risk of developing these conditions.
  • 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.
  • No Sugar No SugarNo sugar diets are important for seniors because they can help prevent or manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. Sugar can also contribute to cognitive decline and inflammation in the body, so reducing sugar intake can lead to overall improved health and well-being in older adults.
  • 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.
  • Restaurant style dining Restaurant style diningRestaurant style dining is important for seniors as it offers them a social and enjoyable dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and provides personalized menu options to cater to their dietary needs and preferences. This type of dining setting can enhance their overall quality of life and create a sense of community within the senior living facility.
  • 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.
  • Special dining programs Special dining programsSpecial dining programs are important for seniors because they provide nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences. These programs also offer socialization opportunities, promote overall health and well-being, and can help prevent malnutrition.
  • Vegan VeganVegan diets can provide numerous health benefits for seniors, including lower risk of chronic diseases, improved digestion, and increased energy levels. Additionally, plant-based diets are often rich in essential nutrients that can support overall well-being and longevity in older adults.
  • Vegetarian VegetarianA vegetarian diet is important for seniors because it can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, maintain a healthy weight, and provide essential nutrients needed for aging bodies. Additionally, plant-based diets are often easier on digestive systems and can contribute to overall well-being in older adults.

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.
  • Catholic services Catholic servicesCatholic services are important for seniors because they provide spiritual support, a sense of community, and opportunities for social interaction that can enhance overall well-being and quality of life in their later years.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Devotional activities on-site Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.
  • 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.
  • Jewish services Jewish servicesJewish services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual support, and connection to their heritage and traditions. These services help enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults in senior living settings.
  • Mormon/LDS services Mormon/LDS servicesMormon/LDS services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual support, and connection to their faith during their later years. These services offer opportunities for socialization, worship, and guidance in navigating the challenges of aging.
  • Other religious services Other religious servicesOther religious services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual comfort, and opportunities for socializing. These services can help seniors feel connected to their faith and maintain a sense of purpose and belonging in their later years.
  • Protestant services Protestant servicesProtestant services are important for seniors because they provide spiritual nourishment, community support, and a sense of belonging. These services can help seniors connect with others who share their faith, find comfort and guidance in times of need, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their later years.
  • Visiting chaplain or priest Visiting chaplain or priestHaving a visiting chaplain or priest at a senior living community is important for seniors because it provides spiritual support, comfort, and guidance during a time of life that can be challenging and uncertain. Their presence can help seniors feel connected to their faith, find peace of mind, and cope with the emotional and mental struggles they may face in their later years.

Description

Berkshire Commons is an assisted living community located in Reading, PA. It specializes in providing memory care for individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. The community offers a range of amenities to enhance the residents' quality of life, including various on-site activities, air-conditioning, beautician services, devotional services both on-site and off-site, ground floor units for easy accessibility, and indoor and outdoor common areas. Each resident has a private bathroom and the facility offers respite or short term stays as well.

In terms of care services, Berkshire Commons provides specialized care for individuals with diabetes, high acuity needs, incontinence care, and medication management. The dining options at this community are diverse and accommodating to different dietary needs with gluten-free, low/no sodium, vegan, vegetarian, and no sugar options available. A professional chef ensures that meals are not only nutritious but also delicious.

Residents can engage in a variety of activities catered to their interests and spirituality. Catholic services, Jewish services, Mormon/LDS services, Protestant services as well as other religious activities are offered both on-site and offsite. Educational speakers provide lifelong learning opportunities for the residents.

Conveniently located near parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices restaurants transportation options and places of worship nearby make it easy for residents to access necessary amenities outside of the community while still receiving the care they need within a comfortable environment at Berkshire Commons.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Reading, Pennsylvania offers a wide range of amenities and services that cater to the needs of seniors. With several physicians' offices nearby such as Reading Pediatrics and Southern Berks Family Medicine, healthcare is easily accessible. There are also pharmacies like Rite Aid and CVS in close proximity for medication needs. Places of worship such as St Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church provide spiritual support, while parks like Egelman Park offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. For dining options, Exeter Family Restaurant and Chick-Fil-A are conveniently located. Additionally, transportation services from Enterprise Rent-A-Car make it easy to get around the area. Nearby hospitals such as The Reading Hospital ensure quality healthcare services are readily available. Overall, this part of Reading provides a comfortable and convenient environment for seniors looking to settle down in the area.

Physicians

  • Reading Pediatrics (0.4 miles)
  • PriorityCare (0.6 miles)
  • Berks Oral Surgery (0.6 miles)
  • Southern Berks Family Medicine (0.8 miles)
  • Hearing Aid Associates (1.7 miles)
  • Quickcare Exeter (2 miles)
  • Allergy & Asthma Medical Center PC (2.5 miles)

Restaurants

  • Exeter Family Restaurant (0.8 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (1 miles)
  • Liberty Taproom (2.8 miles)
  • Bertie's Inn (4.2 miles)
  • Trooper Thorn's Irish Beef House (4.5 miles)
  • Victor Emmanuel II (4.5 miles)
  • Cheer's American Bistro (4.9 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Rite Aid (1 miles)
  • Rite Aid (2.7 miles)
  • Birdsboro Pharmacy (3.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5 miles)
  • Berks Discount Pharmacy (5.1 miles)
  • Rite Aid (5.6 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Catherine of Siena Roman Catholic Church (1.8 miles)
  • Bethany Lutheran Church (5.9 miles)
  • Immanuel United Church of Christ (6.2 miles)
  • Holy Guardian Angels Roman Catholic Church (7 miles)

Parks

  • Egelman Park (4 miles)
  • Eleventh and Pike Playground (5.5 miles)
  • Reading Public Museum Arboretum (6.2 miles)
  • Museum Park (6.5 miles)

Transportation

  • Enterprise Rent-A-Car (4.8 miles)

Hospitals

  • Haven Behavioral Hospital (5.1 miles)
  • Reading Hospital Sleep Center (5.7 miles)
  • Reading Nursing Center Loc. 4 (5.9 miles)
  • Central Monitoring Room (5.9 miles)
  • TRHMC C-Building 3rd Floor (6 miles)
  • The Reading Hospital (6.1 miles)
  • Beginnings Maternity Center (6.1 miles)

Cafes

  • Pike Cafe (5.6 miles)
  • Dosie Dough (7 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Related Resources

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  • end stage dementiaComprehensive Insights on the Late Stages of Dementia: What to Expect and How to Provide Care

    The article discusses the late stages of dementia, detailing the progression from mild to severe impairment and highlighting key characteristics such as profound cognitive decline and dependency in daily activities. It emphasizes care strategies focused on comfort and dignity, the importance of advance directives, and the emotional support needed for family caregivers facing this challenging journey.

  • list of drugs linked to dementiaMedications Associated with Dementia Risk: A Comprehensive Overview

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