Holyoke Healthcare Center in Holyoke, MA

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Holyoke Healthcare Center Holyoke Healthcare Center

Holyoke Healthcare Center in Holyoke, MA

Information last verified:

282 Cabot Street, Holyoke, MA 01040

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

3 from 26 reviews
5 stars
9
4 stars
4
3 stars
2
2 stars
0
1 stars
11

Overall Review of Holyoke Healthcare Center

Pros

  • pro The staff consistently go above and beyond in daily operations and advocacy.
  • pro Most of the staff were attentive, caring, and kind, treating residents with respect and dignity.
  • pro The facility is home to caring people who provided excellent care when a family member needed it.
  • pro Darlene McConnell and her team are praised for going above and beyond to help residents and families.
  • pro Jonan and his maintenance team are appreciated for their support and responsiveness.
  • pro The social workers are described as wonderful and extremely helpful.
  • pro Pedro and Salish are highlighted as exemplary CNAs who went above and beyond.

Cons

  • pro They describe the staff as inexperienced, unprofessional, and poorly trained.
  • pro They claim regional/Corporate upper management is out of touch and cares mostly about the bottom line.
  • pro They state patients are ignored for over an hour, sometimes sitting in soiled briefs or on the floor.
  • pro They report call bells going unanswered for long periods.
  • pro They note the food budget is inadequate and the meals served are disgusting and unhealthy.
  • pro They say the facility is severely understaffed and staff are unresponsive, with medication errors occurring.
  • pro They characterize the experience as a nightmare, including water being unavailable for hours and wounds going unreported.

Review

Holyoke Healthcare Center serves best for families seeking a rehabilitation- and discharge-focused environment where frontline staff can actively advocate for a loved one. The strongest fit is with residents who benefit from hands-on attention from nurses, CNAs, and social workers who can mobilize resources and coordinate post-acute care. When a resident has dedicated advocates on the floor and a team that prioritizes advocacy and individualized planning, recovery can be meaningful. This community rewards hands-on, relationship-driven care from the people actually delivering daily support, rather than dependability on distant, centralized management.

At the same time, those who require consistently flawless operations and a camera-ready standard of daily life should consider alternatives. Families needing perpetual, near-telepathic response times, unerring medication safety, and pristine cleanliness should weigh other options. Several reviews flag recurrent issues with staffing levels, call-bell responsiveness, and housekeeping, plus disquieting reports about transport, bed safety, and timely care. In short, the decision hinges on whether reliable, steady operations can be achieved on the ground with active family or advocate involvement, or if a more consistently staffed environment is essential.

The most durable positives here are real and present when competent staff are on duty. Independent observers repeatedly praise frontline caregivers who connect with residents, particularly certain CNAs and nurses who go “above and beyond” in moments of need. Social workers and discharge planners, Darlene in particular, are highlighted as a lifeline, helping families navigate resources and understand care requirements after hospitalization. Therapy staff, occupational and physical, are frequently described as capable, contributing to meaningful mobility and functional gains for rehab patients. When these professionals are engaged, the facility can deliver genuine value, especially for short-term rehab, stroke recovery, or post-acute care where individualized attention matters.

Yet the main cons tend to weigh heavily against the positives when problems compound. Understaffing is a recurrent theme, with many accounts of call bells going unanswered for extended periods, beds and linens in need of attention, and overall responsiveness lagging at critical moments. Safety concerns appear in reports of patients at risk of wandering unsupervised or receiving inconsistent care due to staff turnover or uneven training. Medication safety worries surface in some narratives, alongside complaints about delayed or missed treatments. Food quality and meal service, cleanliness, and dated surroundings also color the experience, undermining comfort and recovery for residents who depend on reliable daily routines. In short, the positives are real but fragile: they often hinge on the presence of dedicated staff and effective advocates, while the systemic gaps can overwhelm even well-intentioned caregivers.

When weighing pros against cons, the strongest offset comes from on-the-ground advocacy and targeted, proactive teamwork. A skilled social worker, reliable CNAs, and a responsive therapy team can produce better-than-expected rehabilitation outcomes and smoother discharge transitions, which matters greatly for short-term stays. However, the structural issues, understaffing, inconsistent supervision, and administration that appears detached from day-to-day resident needs, limit overall safety and predictability. For residents facing long-term care, or for families seeking a consistently seamless daily experience, these gaps dilute otherwise strong clinical care and threaten basic comforts like timely meals, clean rooms, and prompt assistance.

For families evaluating this community, a pragmatic approach is essential. First, visit during multiple shifts to observe call-bell response times, housekeeping quality, and nurse coverage across the day and night. Have candid conversations with the social work team about care planning, discharge timelines, and the facility’s process for addressing concerns when issues arise. Request to meet with the infection and wound care teams if applicable, and ask about ongoing staff training and how new hires are integrated into patient care. It is also wise to review a resident’s care plan with a trusted advocate on-site, and to verify that transportation and follow-up appointments are reliably arranged. Finally, consider a trial period or a carefully structured admission plan that prioritizes short-term goals and clear escalation paths if care gaps emerge.

Ultimately, Holyoke Healthcare Center presents a markedly uneven proposition. For families who can champion a resident’s day-to-day needs and who prioritize robust rehab and discharge planning, the facility can deliver meaningful recoveries and compassionate advocacy from certain staff members. For others, especially those requiring consistent, high-frequency responsiveness, unbroken safety oversight, and uniform standards of cleanliness and nutrition, the risks are nontrivial. Alternatives that demonstrate steadier staffing, more predictable call-response, and stronger administration alignment with resident welfare may be the prudent choice. The decision should hinge on whether active on-site advocacy and carefully managed expectations can reliably bridge the gap between excellent individual care and the heavier, system-wide shortages that many residents ultimately experience.

Features

Housing

  • 102 resident community capacity 102 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Skilled Nursing Facility 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.

Amenities

  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Computer center 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 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.
  • Fitness room 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 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.
  • Gaming room 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Restaurant-style dining 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 library 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.
  • 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.
  • Wellness center 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 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

  • Bradley International (19 miles away) Bradley International (19 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation 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 arrangement 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 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 appointments 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.

Care Services

  • 12-16 hour nursing 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 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.
  • 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.

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.
  • Concierge services 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 programs 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 trips 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 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 Holyoke Healthcare Center in Holyoke, MA is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services for its residents. The community provides a comfortable and welcoming environment for seniors to live in, with fully furnished accommodations that include private bathrooms and cable or satellite TV.

Residents at the Holyoke Healthcare Center have access to a variety of amenities to enhance their daily lives. These include a beauty salon for personal grooming needs, a computer center for staying connected with loved ones, and a gaming room for entertainment purposes. There is also a small library available for reading enthusiasts.

The community offers delicious restaurant-style dining options, with special dietary restrictions accommodated. Meals are prepared and served by the staff, ensuring that residents receive proper nutrition. Additionally, there is a dining room where residents can enjoy their meals alongside fellow community members.

For physical well-being, the Holyoke Healthcare Center provides a fitness room and wellness center where residents can engage in exercise programs and activities designed to promote health and vitality. Outdoor spaces such as gardens are also available for relaxation and fresh air.

Care services at the Holyoke Healthcare Center are comprehensive and include assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. A 24-hour call system ensures that help is readily available when needed. Medication management is provided to ensure proper medication schedules are followed.

The community offers various opportunities for socialization and engagement through planned daily activities, resident-run activities, and scheduled day trips. Residents can also take advantage of concierge services to make their stay more convenient.

In terms of location, the Holyoke Healthcare Center benefits from its proximity to nearby amenities. There are cafes, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, and hospitals all within close reach.

Overall, the Holyoke Healthcare Center provides a supportive environment where seniors can receive personalized care while enjoying various amenities and engaging in fulfilling activities.

Nearby Places of Interest

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (0.3 miles)
  • Sirona Healing Arts (0.3 miles)
  • Holyoke Health Center (0.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.4 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.8 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (4.5 miles)

Physicians

  • Mateen, Zubeena Dr - Holyoke Medical Center Oncology (0.6 miles)
  • Childrens Heart Center (0.6 miles)
  • Holyoke Orthopedics (0.6 miles)
  • Holyoke Associates In Internal Medicine (0.6 miles)
  • Lenzy Dermatology (2.4 miles)
  • Vonnahme Eye Care (2.5 miles)
  • Avada Hearing Care Center (2.7 miles)

Restaurants

  • Nick's Nest (0.6 miles)
  • Cracker Barrel (2.3 miles)
  • Ichiban Chinese & Japanese Restaurant (2.5 miles)
  • Frontera Grill (2.5 miles)
  • Doc's Place (2.7 miles)
  • Arby's (2.8 miles)
  • Say When Cafe (3.1 miles)

Hospitals

  • Holyoke Hospital (0.6 miles)
  • Diabetes Center of Western Mass (0.7 miles)
  • Baystate Pain Management Center (5.7 miles)
  • Baystate Medical Center (5.9 miles)
  • Baystate Hospital Dailey Building (5.9 miles)
  • Shriners Hospitals for Children (6.1 miles)
  • Mercy Medical Center (6.4 miles)

Cafes

  • Blue Room Cafe (4.1 miles)

Transportation

  • Five Star School Bus Chicopee (4.8 miles)
  • Springfield Union Station (ZSF) (7 miles)

Parks

  • Van Horn Park Path (5.8 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Holyoke Healthcare Center?

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