The Highlands in Westborough, MA

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  • Interior

    A cozy bedroom featuring red bedding, a floral armchair, and classic decor.
  • Outdoors

    A group of seniors enjoying a lively bus ride, raising their hands in excitement.
  • Decor

    A cozy living room with a striped sofa, decorative plants, and a television.
  • Living Room

    A cozy living room with a sofa, armchairs, and natural light from multiple windows.
  • Architecture

    A modern apartment building with well-maintained landscaping.
  • Bedroom

    A cozy bedroom featuring a neatly made bed with colorful pillows, a bedside lamp, and decorative artwork on the wall.
  • Windows

    A cozy bedroom with a bed, seating area, and television.
  • Dining

    Three friends enjoying a celebration, wearing floral crowns and smiling together at a dining table.
  • Lighting

    A cozy game room featuring a red pool table, comfortable seating, and warm lighting.
  • Bathroom

    A neatly decorated bathroom with a toilet, red towel, and potted plant.
  • Chandelier

    A spacious dining area with round tables and cushioned chairs, featuring elegant chandeliers and a red carpeted floor.
  • Seating

    A luxurious home theater with rows of seats facing a large movie screen, framed by red curtains.

The Highlands in Westborough, MA

Information last verified:

129 E Main Street, Westborough, MA 01581

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

4.2 from 57 reviews
5 stars
32
4 stars
15
3 stars
4
2 stars
4
1 stars
2

Seniors.FYI Elite Community Awards

Top 5% Senior Living Community in 2016

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The Highlands Costs & Pricing

The Highlands offers competitively priced living options compared to the broader market in Worcester County and across Massachusetts. For instance, a studio apartment at The Highlands is available for $2,955 per month, considerably lower than Worcester County's average of $5,109 and Massachusetts's average of $5,312. Similarly, one-bedroom apartments at The Highlands are priced at $3,355, which remains below both the county's rate of $4,661 and the state average of $5,349. Even in the two-bedroom category, where The Highlands charges $5,035 per month, it still presents a more affordable choice compared to Worcester County's $5,131 and Massachusetts's higher average of $6,151. These figures highlight The Highlands as an attractive option for those seeking quality housing without breaching their budget.

Floor plansThe HighlandsWorcester CountyMassachusetts
Studio$2,955$5,109$5,312
1 Bedroom$3,355$4,661$5,349
2 Bedrooms$5,035$5,131$6,151

Overall Review of The Highlands

Pros

  • pro The Highlands offers a variety of apartment layouts, giving residents many options.
  • pro The staff remember residents’ names and preferences, creating a welcoming environment.
  • pro The community provides a wide range of activities and events to keep residents engaged.
  • pro Each unit includes a full-sized refrigerator, adding convenient housing features.
  • pro The Highlands is pet-friendly, welcoming residents’ pets.
  • pro The dining room is spacious and meals are nutritious and tasty, with many choices.
  • pro The staff are friendly, accommodating, and genuinely caring toward residents.
  • pro The facility is clean, bright, and well-maintained with modern amenities.
  • pro The ambassador program helps new residents settle in and get oriented.
  • pro The community feels welcoming to families and offers good value for money.

Cons

  • pro They don’t respect the patients as they should and should treat them like their own relatives to ensure proper treatment.
  • pro There has been a lot of staff turnover over the last year, and interactions between staff and residents could be better.
  • pro The Highlands is described as anything but gracious, and the facility is a pit.
  • pro The food is substandard and often inedible.
  • pro It is not a great place when managers or residents treat others as beneath them, especially the managers Alice and Scott.
  • pro They lack a wheelchair-accessible van for outside outings, limiting resident mobility.
  • pro The community has had a lot of mice.

Review

The Highlands in Westborough is best suited for active seniors who want a bright, hotel-like setting with abundant social life, varied activities, and restaurant-style dining, all without a burdensome upfront buy-in. It works well for residents who can enjoy independent living with the option to add outside care as needed, and for families seeking a straightforward lease structure and predictable monthly costs. It is especially appealing to those who prize a strong sense of community, welcoming staff, and accessible, spacious apartments. It is not the right fit for someone who requires consistent on-site nursing, extensive personal care, or high-frequency medical support, or for families relying on wheelchair-accessible transportation for regular outings, areas where other communities may offer more integrated care and mobility options.

The Highlands delivers a compelling blend of condo-like living and senior-community energy. Residents benefit from a range of apartment layouts, many with balconies or vaulted ceilings, and notably a full-sized refrigerator in every unit. The building’s interior and grounds read as polished and well cared for, contributing to a comfortable, almost boutique-hotel atmosphere. Dining is a core strength, three meals daily with a broad array of choices and service that often feels personal, with wait staff who know residents by name. The activity calendar is robust and varied, spanning outings, exercise, entertainment, and clubs, with a highly engaged activities director who consistently invests in new programming. Across many reviews, staff members are described as warm, patient, and genuinely invested in residents’ well-being, and several families highlight a formal ambassador program that helps new residents find their footing quickly.

Yet the community comes with trade-offs that merit frank consideration. A thread running through reviews is the reality of management turnover and uneven responsiveness, which can leave families feeling they are navigating a moving target at times. Maintenance and housekeeping service can be inconsistent, and a few families report gaps in communication or follow-through. Food quality, while repeatedly praised, has also been described as variable; some meals hit the mark, while others feel routine or repetitive. Transportation for outside adventures is not universally accessible by a wheelchair-friendly vehicle, a limitation for residents with mobility needs who rely on frequent off-site activities. Pricing is competitive but not the least expensive option, and The Highlands does not provide in-house medical or personal-care services, instead coordinating with external agencies, an important consideration for families planning long-term care trajectories.

Those weighing alternatives should recognize that The Highlands excels for residents who want social vitality, reliable housekeeping, a flexible living environment, and a supportive, family-like staff culture, with the ability to add care services from external providers when needed. However, for families seeking constant, on-site nursing, dedicated memory-care programming, or transportation with full wheelchair accessibility, other communities with stronger in-house care and more uniform management may be more appropriate. The absence of an in-house medical suite and the potential for management shifts mean that the resident experience can feel less predictable for some families, especially during transitions or changes in leadership.

Overall, the positives, bright, spacious apartments; a strong dining program; a full slate of activities; and a genuinely caring staff, often outweigh the drawbacks for the target resident: an active elder who values independence, sociability, and a thoughtfully managed home base with easy hospital access and a central location. The Highlands stands out for value relative to its peers, the absence of a buy-in, and the sense of community that many families report as transformative for their loved ones. It remains a standout option for households prioritizing lifestyle, engagement, and cost efficiency over guaranteed on-site medical care or highly regimented care coordination.

For families seriously considering The Highlands, take a structured tour with specific questions: who is current leadership, and how stable is the management team? what is the latest menu and how often is it refreshed? how are maintenance requests tracked and resolved, and who serves as a direct contact for day-to-day questions? confirm transportation options, especially for mobility limitations, and verify the policy on in-house versus external care providers. examine a typical lease, understand any annual increases, and ask for recent resident references about day-to-day life and care coordination. If the priority is a lively, elegant setting with robust social programming and strong daily living support, The Highlands should rank highly; if the need centers on stable on-site nursing, continuous care, or comprehensive mobility services, explore options with heavier on-site care credentials.

Features

Types of Care

  • Independent Living Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

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.
  • 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.
  • Garden view Garden viewGarden views are important for seniors as they provide natural beauty and tranquility, promoting relaxation and overall well-being. Access to green spaces can also encourage outdoor activity and socialization, enhancing physical and mental health.
  • 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 patio, deck, or balcony Private patio, deck, or balconyHaving a private patio, deck, or balcony is crucial for seniors living in a retirement community as it provides them with access to fresh air, natural light, and the outdoors without having to leave their home. This outdoor space can promote physical activity, mental well-being, and socialization opportunities for seniors, contributing to an overall improved quality of life.
  • 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.

Transportation

  • Worcester Regional (14 miles away) Worcester Regional (14 miles away)

Dining

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Bible study group Bible study groupBible study groups provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual growth, and support during their later years. It helps them stay connected to their faith, find comfort in difficult times, and build meaningful relationships with others.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Karaoke KaraokeKaraoke provides seniors with a fun and social activity that can boost mood, confidence, and cognitive function. It encourages social interaction, physical movement, and creative expression, making it an important form of entertainment for 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."
  • 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

The Highlands in Westborough, MA is a premier assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and services to enhance the quality of life for its residents. This community provides a comfortable and nurturing environment where seniors can receive assistance with daily activities while maintaining their independence.

The Highlands offers an array of amenities to cater to the diverse needs and interests of its residents. For those who enjoy staying active, there are various on-site activities available, as well as nearby parks for outdoor recreation. The community is also equipped with air-conditioning, ensuring that residents stay cool and comfortable throughout the year. Each unit features private bathrooms with bath tubs and is designed to be handicap accessible.

Indoor common areas provide spaces for socializing and relaxation, while private patios, decks, or balconies offer residents the opportunity to enjoy fresh air and scenic garden views. High-speed internet access is provided throughout the community, allowing residents to stay connected with loved ones or browse the web at their convenience.

Dining at The Highlands is a true culinary experience. Meals are prepared by a professional chef who specializes in creating delicious dishes that cater to various dietary needs, such as low/no sodium options and vegetarian meals. Residents can enjoy restaurant-style dining or opt for room service if they prefer to dine in the comfort of their own apartments.

In addition to providing exceptional amenities, The Highlands also offers a variety of activities to promote physical, mental, and spiritual wellness. Devotional activities offsite are available for those who wish to deepen their faith, while educational speakers provide opportunities for lifelong learning. Residents can also participate in Bible study groups or attend religious services within the community led by visiting chaplains or priests.

The surrounding area boasts convenient access to essential services such as cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, and hospitals. This ensures that residents have all they need within close proximity to meet their daily needs and maintain an active lifestyle.

Overall, The Highlands in Westborough, MA is a vibrant and welcoming assisted living community that offers residents a comfortable and engaging environment. With its extensive amenities, exceptional dining options, and diverse range of activities, this community truly prioritizes the well-being of its residents and strives to enhance their overall quality of life.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Westborough, Massachusetts offers a variety of medical services in close proximity, including physicians, pharmacies, and a hospital for convenient healthcare access. The area also features several dining options ranging from fast food to casual restaurants, as well as cafes for social gatherings. Nearby parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation, while places of worship offer spiritual fulfillment. For entertainment, there is a theater within a short drive. Overall, this location provides a balanced mix of essential services and amenities that cater to the needs of seniors looking for a comfortable and convenient living environment.

Physicians

  • Umass Medical Group Westboro (0.1 miles)
  • Quality Medical Evaluations (0.3 miles)
  • Muppidi, Daniel Dr - Metrowest Allergy Associates, PC (0.4 miles)
  • Keamy Cosmetic Centre (0.4 miles)
  • Vein Clinic Of New England (0.4 miles)
  • Westborough Family Medicine (0.5 miles)
  • Daniel J. Muppidi, MD (3.2 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (0.2 miles)
  • Chipotle Mexican Grill (0.5 miles)
  • Uhlman's Ice Cream (1.1 miles)
  • Civic Kitchen & Drink (1.8 miles)
  • Chet's Diner (3.3 miles)
  • Hillside Grill (3.6 miles)
  • 110 Grill (3.7 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Active Rx Westborough Active (0.4 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (3 miles)
  • RXI Pharmaceuticals C (3 miles)
  • Pharma Models (3.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.8 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (5 miles)

Cafes

  • Panera Bread (1 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (6.6 miles)
  • The Bagel Table (6.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.6 miles)
  • New City Microcre (7.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital (1.6 miles)
  • U Mass Hospital (8.2 miles)
  • UMass ACC (8.4 miles)
  • Worcester Recovery Center And Hospital (8.7 miles)

Parks

  • Minuteman Park (2.8 miles)
  • Whitehall State Park (3.1 miles)
  • Hopkinton State Park (4.1 miles)
  • Lake Park (8.2 miles)
  • Cushing Memorial Park (8.3 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Rose of Lima Parish (3.5 miles)
  • St Bridget's Church & School (8.6 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Solomon Pond (5.1 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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