Center For Extended Care At Amherst
Save
150 University Drive, Amherst, MA 01002
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The Center For Extended Care At Amherst offers competitive pricing for its services compared to the local and state averages. For a semi-private room, residents can expect to pay $1,819 per month, which is significantly lower than the Hampshire County average of $4,651 and the Massachusetts statewide average of $5,805. Those opting for a private room will find similar value; at $2,388 per month, this rate is also well below the county average of $4,909 and the state figure of $6,090. This positioning reflects a commitment to providing accessible care while maintaining quality support for individuals in need of extended care services.
| Floor plans | Center For Extended Care At Amherst | Hampshire County | Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-Private | $1,819 | $4,651 | $5,805 |
| Private | $2,388 | $4,909 | $6,090 |
What level of care are you interested in?
Assisted Living
Memory Care
Independent Living
Skilled Nursing Facility
Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)CCRC
Other
The staff's compassion, kindness, and resourcefulness have been outstanding on the dementia unit. No overmedicating occurs, and residents are treated with patience and respect. The staff are welcoming, accepting, and open with families. The mom is treated exceptionally well; staff are kind, attentive, and compassionate, ensuring she's comfortable and well taken care of. The food is fantastic, offering delicious and nutritious meals that residents enjoy; the physical therapy team is very helpful. The rehab department does a great job identifying treatment needs, and nursing staff are compassionate. The staff are dedicated, supportive, and often become like extended family to residents.
The facility delivers subpar care and is not as clean as it should be. A resident reportedly receives peanut butter and jelly sandwiches at every meal, with infrequent showers and slow response to call bells. The staff are described as overworked and underappreciated. The long-term unit is described as a mess with COVID exposure and no PPE, and management is said to be uncaring. The memory care unit is understaffed and underinvested, leading to poor care. A nurse manager is described as intimidating, aggressive, and discriminatory toward staff, creating an unsafe environment. The facility is accused of withholding pay and retaliating against employees who raise concerns. There are claims of no teamwork, rude and unprofessional staff, and widespread burnout. Conditions are described as horrible, with dementia patients not being changed and staff unresponsive. The rehab center is accused of poor communication, leaving families frustrated and residents at risk. Pest problems and unsanitary kitchen conditions (mice and roaches) are reported. Ownership and management are described as negligent, with calls for investigation.This collection of reviews paints a facility that can feel like two different places depending on who you talk to and when you visit. There are clear throughlines of warmth, compassion, and skilled care in some units and among certain teams, but there are also persistent complaints about understaffing, inconsistent routines, and management challenges that leave families anxious and residents underserved. Taken together, the stories reveal a campus where moments of excellent, person-centered care can exist side-by-side with troubling lapses that undermine safety, dignity, and everyday comfort.
Several reviewers spotlight the dementia unit and memory care as a bright spot in the care landscape. One family member notes that their relative has been in the dementia unit for ten months and repeatedly highlights the compassion, kindness, and resourcefulness of the staff there. They praise staff for not overmedicating patients and for treating everyone with patience and respect, with daily visits from family members that reinforce a sense of welcoming and openness. Another family member echoes this sentiment, describing the mom's care as "truly amazing" and thanking the staff for always being kind, attentive, and compassionate. They mention that aspects like well-balanced meals and responsive physical therapy contribute to a sense of overall well-being, and they emphasize that the staff go above and beyond to ensure comfort and safety. These testimonials emphasize continuity of relationships, open communication with families, and a culture of dignity for residents who require specialized attention.
Beyond the dementia unit, strong praise also goes to rehab and nursing teams in other contexts. A reviewer who lauds the rehab department notes that clinicians identify functional areas that need treatment and that the nursing staff are compassionate and give caring assistance. The sentiment of being well-supported by therapists and nurses, and the impression that the facility's approach is focused on the resident's functional goals, recurs in several positive notes. Some families describe the rehab and nursing staff as dedicated, resourceful, and capable of delivering high-quality care, which reinforces the sense that when staff are present in sufficient numbers, outcomes can be notably positive.
There are several stories that speak to the social and culinary dimensions of care as well. One account highlights the quality and enjoyment of meals, praising the food as fantastic and nutritious, with the dining experience contributing to the resident's daily happiness and vitality. This positive note sits alongside other remarks celebrating the existence of social activities and opportunities for engagement, suggesting that for at least some residents, the facility offers meaningful quality-of-life experiences beyond basic custodial care.
Yet the same collection includes a strong countercurrent of criticisms that cannot be ignored. A number of reviewers describe meals that feel neglectful or monotonous - specifically recounting days when a resident's meals consisted of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches repeatedly - and they report insufficient personal care routines, such as infrequent showers. Others recount delays in responding to call buttons, with frustration voiced about the time it takes for staff to address resident needs and concerns. One particularly stark account describes a dining situation and a lack of follow-through that led to a sense of neglect and fear, culminating in a strongly negative assessment of the facility.
A recurring theme across several reviews is understaffing and its ripple effects. Families describe long waits for attention, a sense that too many residents must be cared for by too few staff, and a perception that the facility is overwhelmed, especially on certain shifts. There are explicit statements about stress and fatigue among caregivers, with one review describing a "mess" on the long-term unit and another lamenting a sense of being overworked and underappreciated. The perception that staffing shortages translate into compromised safety and consistency is a persistent thread, reinforced by remarks about difficulty maintaining routine care, delays in essential tasks, and the emotional toll on staff.
Management and safety concerns surface in several testimonials as well. Some reviewers claim visits from higher-level leadership were lacking in responsiveness, and one detailed account recounts a confrontation with a manager that left the staff member feeling unsafe. There are also allegations about PPE and infection control during a COVID surge, with claims that the long-term unit operated without adequate PPE and that patients were left in damp conditions. In another strongly worded review, the writer states that the facility was understaffed and underinvested in memory care, and they contrast the experience with another local facility that had previously been rated highly, underscoring a belief that organizational priorities and resources were misaligned with residents' needs.
Interwoven with these concerns are reports about workplace conditions for staff and payroll issues. Some reviewers describe a hostile or unsupportive work environment, including mentions of being overworked, not receiving breaks, and witnessing "no team work." There are reports of delayed or missing paychecks and conflicts with supervisors, with one CNA explicitly stating frustration about retaliation and discrimination after speaking up. While these entries reflect what is happening on the ground for staff, they inevitably color perceptions of resident care, since the well-being of residents is closely tied to the morale and stability of the caregiving team.
A subset of reviewers remains strongly optimistic about the facility, describing a "wonderful group of dedicated, supportive staff" who become like an extended family to residents. These testimonials celebrate caregivers who stay long enough to know families and residents well, who take pride in their work, and who believe in the mission of caring for a highly vulnerable population. Some reviewers who started their own careers at the facility speak to the personal fulfillment and professional growth they found there, returning with gratitude for the culture of care. This positive thread helps illustrate that the experience at the campus is not monolithic - moments of excellence do exist, and some staff and units deliver the kind of compassionate, resident-centered care families are seeking.
In sum, the reviews describe a care environment with significant variability. On one hand, there are explicit, heartfelt testimonials about compassionate, respectful care, responsive rehab services, and moments of real warmth and expertise, especially in the dementia and memory care settings. On the other hand, there are strong, specific admonitions against sending loved ones to the facility, rooted in concerns about cleanliness, inconsistent care, insufficient staffing, PPE lapses, and troubling experiences with management and payroll. The juxtaposition suggests a campus where quality can be highly contingent on unit, shift, and leadership at a given time, emphasizing the importance for families to assess current conditions, visit multiple times, and ask pointed questions about staffing levels, safety protocols, and the everyday routines that shape a resident's day.
134 resident community capacity
Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.
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.
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 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.
Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
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.
Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
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.
Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
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 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.
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 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 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.
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.
Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
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.
Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
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.
Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance. Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life. Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options. Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.
12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
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 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 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 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 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 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.
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 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 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 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 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. 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 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. 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.
Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security. Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life. 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 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.The Center for Extended Care at Amherst in Amherst, MA is a vibrant assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to promote comfort, convenience, and overall well-being.
Residents can enjoy the convenience of on-site amenities such as a beauty salon, computer center, gaming room, small library, and a fitness room. The community also offers fully furnished accommodation with private bathrooms and access to cable or satellite TV and high-speed internet. Outdoor spaces and gardens provide beautiful settings to relax or socialize.
To ensure residents' needs are met, the community provides various care services including assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is available along with specialized diets like diabetes diets and special dietary restrictions. A mental wellness program promotes emotional well-being.
Daily dining experiences are restaurant-style, offering delicious meals prepared by experienced staff to accommodate special dietary restrictions. A concierge service assists residents in planning day trips or accessing local amenities. Scheduled daily activities keep residents engaged while resident-run activities allow them to contribute their unique talents and interests.
Located within close proximity to cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, theaters, and hospitals ensures that residents have easy access to various services and entertainment options.
The Center for Extended Care at Amherst provides an enriching environment that fosters independence while offering the necessary support for an enhanced quality of life.
The Center For Extended Care At Amherst offers competitive pricing for its services compared to the local and state averages. For a semi-private room, residents can expect to pay $1,819 per month, which is significantly lower than the Hampshire County average of $4,651 and the Massachusetts statewide average of $5,805. Those opting for a private room will find similar value; at $2,388 per month, this rate is also well below the county average of $4,909 and the state figure of $6,090. This positioning reflects a commitment to providing accessible care while maintaining quality support for individuals in need of extended care services.
Center For Extended Care At Amherst is located at 150 University Drive, Amherst, MA 01002 in Hampshire County, Massachusetts
Arbors at Amherst
Amherst, MA
Caring staff in a clean, well-maintained memory-care environment.
Highland Valley Elder Svc
Amherst, MA
Excellent access to nearby amenities (cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, theater, and a hospital) for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Highland Valley Elder Svc reviews
Highland Valley Elder Svc images
Elaine Center at Hadley
Hadley, MA
Dedicated staff and clean, well-maintained facility.
Elaine Center at Hadley reviews
Elaine Center at Hadley images
Hadley at Elaine Care and Rehabilitation Cent
Hadley, MA
Active family advocacy helped secure a safer outcome for their loved one.
Hadley at Elaine Care and Rehabilitation Cent costs
Hadley at Elaine Care and Rehabilitation Cent reviews
Hadley at Elaine Care and Rehabilitation Cent images
Fisher Home
Amherst, MA
Excellent location with extensive nearby amenities and access to healthcare.
Highland Valley Elder Svc
Hatfield, MA
Excellent access to healthcare and nearby amenities.
Applewood At Amherst
Amherst, MA
Professional, caring staff with a vibrant, engaging community and strong dining.
Rockridge Retirement Community
Northampton, MA
Spacious, well-maintained units with patios and extensive amenities.
Rockridge Retirement Community reviews
Rockridge Retirement Community images
Linda Manor Assisted Living
Leeds, MA
Friendly, caring staff; clean, bright environment; engaging activities and good dining.
Linda Manor Assisted Living costs
Linda Manor Assisted Living reviews
Linda Manor Assisted Living images
A Closer Look at Private Pay Home Care
Private pay home care offers a flexible caregiving option for older adults and families who don't qualify for government programs, allowing them to directly fund in-home care services that range from daily assistance to specialized support. This model's customization potential enables aging in place while addressing financial considerations through strategic planning options, though clients must navigate marketplace challenges and ensure quality compliance.
Comprehensive Approaches for Arthritis: A Detailed Guide to Symptoms, Causes, and Care
Arthritis encompasses over 100 joint disorders affecting people of all ages, leading to symptoms like pain and stiffness that impair mobility and quality of life. Effective management involves early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, medical treatments, emotional support, and ongoing monitoring with healthcare professionals.
Comprehensive Insights and Practical Strategies to Help Older Adults Avoid Falls
The article highlights the high risk of falls among older adults due to factors like muscle weakness, vision issues, and environmental hazards, with one in four experiencing a fall annually. It advocates for a comprehensive prevention approach that includes exercise, home safety modifications, medication management, social support, and caregiver involvement.
Outdoors
Building
