Sacred Heart Nursing Home in New Bedford, MA

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  • Interior

    A serene view of a church interior during a worship service, showcasing the congregation gathered in prayer.

  • Decor

    A cozy bedroom setting with a single bed, armchairs, and ambient lighting.

  • Living Room

    A cozy living room featuring comfortable seating and natural light.

  • Building

    A well-maintained brick building featuring numerous windows and a landscaped entrance.

  • Architecture

    A charming hotel entrance featuring a red awning and beautiful landscaping.

  • Windows

    A well-organized hospital room featuring a patient bed, a chair, and decorative elements.

  • Dining

    A cozy dining area with round tables and elegant wooden furniture.

  • Kitchen

    A spacious and modern kitchen featuring a granite countertop with bar stools and wooden cabinetry.

  • Garden

    A peaceful garden patio with benches and potted plants.

  • Exercise Equipment

    A well-equipped fitness area featuring various exercise machines and equipment for rehabilitation and strength training.

  • Church

    A serene view of a church interior featuring wooden pews and an altar.

Sacred Heart Nursing Home in New Bedford, MA

Information last verified:

359 Summer Street, New Bedford, MA 02740

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

3.4 from 20 reviews
5 stars
8
4 stars
3
3 stars
2
2 stars
2
1 stars
5

Overall Review of Sacred Heart Nursing Home

Pros

  • pro The staff treat patients like family.
  • pro They display positive and professional demeanors.
  • pro Their communication with families is excellent.
  • pro The staff care for residents with love and dedication.
  • pro Sacred Heart saved a mother's life.
  • pro The Alzheimer's unit is second to none.
  • pro The nurses and staff do an outstanding professional job.
  • pro The staff are amazing and provide outstanding care and service.
  • pro Residents enjoy the activities provided.

Cons

  • pro One reviewer would give this place zero if possible.
  • pro The facility is said to lack compassion for workers and to disrespect staff.
  • pro The food is awful.
  • pro There are serious concerns about bathing and cleanliness, with baths regularly skipped.
  • pro An unprofessional nurse yelled at a patient and failed to check on him.
  • pro There are privacy concerns, including patients in shared rooms and inappropriate behavior being ignored.
  • pro Nurses are rude and lack empathy when checking on loved ones.
  • pro The RN weekend supervisor is described as rude, unprofessional, lacking empathy, and prejudiced.
  • pro The food served to patients is not very good and is skimpy; needs improvement.
  • pro It is described as the worst and disgusting place, with warnings that loved ones could die faster there.

Review

Best suited for families who want a warm, family-versus-institution feel and hands-on caregiving, Sacred Heart Nursing Home stands out in New Bedford for residents who need close daily involvement from staff and a strong emphasis on personal connection. The community is particularly appropriate for seniors with Alzheimer's or memory-care needs, supported by a well-regarded dementia unit and a nutrition program guided by a dietitian; families report staff who know residents by name, greet them warmly, and engage in regular communication through social workers, nurses, and activities staff. The building itself is older, but the care culture is the defining asset, with stories of staff going beyond basics to offer reassurance, companionship, and a sense of home.

Those in search of pristine, modern facilities or perfectly consistent, uniformly professional behavior across every shift may want alternatives. A number of reviews flag inconsistent bedside care (including baths being skipped), hints of rude or unempathetic interactions from some aides or supervisors, and occasional concerns about privacy and boundaries. Several comments also question food quality and portion sizes. For families with high expectations around flawless daily routines, luxurious surroundings, or universal staff courtesy, Sacred Heart can feel uneven in practice. In short, consider alternatives if facility modernization, extreme cleanliness standards, or consistently polished customer service are non-negotiable.

Yet the strongest positives, the staff’s genuine care, frequent family communication, and the emphasis on meaningful daily connections, often offset these drawbacks. Families consistently praise nurses and aides who treat residents as if they were their own, with approachable social workers who keep families informed and involved. The Alzheimer's unit is repeatedly singled out as a strength, and several accounts describe dramatic improvements in weight and appetite when nutrition is actively managed by a dietitian. Activities programs and opportunities for social engagement also deliver real emotional support, helping residents feel seen and valued even when medical fragility is present. In this framework, care quality often outweighs building limitations.

Still, concerns recur that cannot be dismissed. A few reviews describe rude or impersonal interactions on weekends and at certain shifts, plus reports of inconsistent bathing and lapses in basic hygiene practices. Food quality is a recurring theme, with some families labeling meals skimpy or unappealing. Privacy and boundaries occasionally feel strained when residents share rooms or common spaces, generating anxiety for families. The combination of an older building and varied staff experiences means the resident experience can swing depending on who is on duty. These are meaningful cautions for families evaluating whether the routine will meet their loved one’s daily expectations.

However, the upweighting factors, clear communication channels, a genuine caregiving culture, and specialized dementia care, tend to close the gap. Where concerns exist, families who stay actively engaged report that nurses and social workers respond, adjust care plans, and involve families in decisions. The clinical story is positive: medicated or overmedicated transitions from other facilities can be reversed through nutrition oversight and attentive staff; Alzheimer’s care has earned recognitions from families that place a premium on stability and personal attention. The result is a facility that, while imperfect, delivers a compassionate care runway for residents who require consistent, hands-on support and a sense of belonging.

Bottom line: Sacred Heart Nursing Home is a practical, solid option for families prioritizing warmth, communication, and dementia-care strengths over state-of-the-art amenities. It is less well-suited for those who demand pristine medical-grade cleanliness every day, modern infrastructure, and uniformly flawless staff behavior across all shifts. Prospective families should schedule multiple visits, speak with dietary and activities staff, and ask hard questions about bathing regularity, meal quality, and how weekend staffing is managed. For many in the New Bedford area seeking a caregiving home that treats residents like family and keeps families in the loop, Sacred Heart offers credible, tangible value, especially for memory-care needs and for those who value emotional support as part of daily care.

Features

Housing

  • 217 resident community capacity 217 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

  • Marthas Vineyard (24 miles away) Marthas Vineyard (24 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

Sacred Heart Nursing Home in New Bedford, MA is a premier assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to meet the needs of its residents. With a focus on providing a comfortable and enjoyable living environment, this community is dedicated to ensuring the well-being and happiness of all individuals.

The community boasts an array of amenities to enhance the daily life of its residents. A beauty salon is available for those who want to pamper themselves and stay stylish. Residents can enjoy their favorite TV shows with cable or satellite TV services. Community-operated transportation is provided for outings and errands. For those looking to stay connected, there is a computer center equipped with Wi-Fi/high-speed internet.

Dining at Sacred Heart Nursing Home is an experience in itself. The dining room offers restaurant-style dining where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by professional staff. Special dietary restrictions are accommodated to ensure everyone's health and satisfaction.

To promote an active lifestyle, the community provides various activities for residents to participate in. Fitness programs are available for those who want to stay fit and healthy. Planned day trips allow residents to explore nearby attractions and enjoy new experiences. Resident-run activities and scheduled daily activities ensure that there are always engaging options for all.

When it comes to care services, Sacred Heart Nursing Home offers 24-hour call system and supervision, providing peace of mind to both residents and their families. Assistance with daily living activities such as bathing, dressing, transfers, and medication management is readily available. The staff follows diabetes diets and special dietary restrictions as required.

Located in New Bedford, MA, this assisted living community benefits from its convenient location near various amenities essential for everyday life. With cafes, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals nearby, residents have easy access to essential services whenever needed.

At Sacred Heart Nursing Home in New Bedford, MA, residents can expect exceptional care services in a vibrant and enriching community. With a wide range of amenities, dedicated staff, and an abundant array of nearby facilities, this assisted living community offers everything needed for a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Metromedic Walk In Medical (0.6 miles)
  • Greater New Bedford Comm Health Center (0.9 miles)
  • New Bedford Health Center (0.9 miles)
  • Tru-Med Walk In Nb (1 miles)
  • Child & Family Services (1 miles)
  • Guillermo Gonzalez (1.1 miles)
  • Horizon Pediatrics (1.3 miles)

Cafes

  • Honey Dew Donuts (0.7 miles)
  • The Nook (1.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.4 miles)
  • Mirasol's Cafe (3.4 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.8 miles)
  • Rite Aid (0.8 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1 miles)
  • Discount Drugs of Canada (1.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.4 miles)
  • CVS Speciality (1.9 miles)

Restaurants

  • Friendly Donuts (0.8 miles)
  • McDonald's (0.8 miles)
  • McDonald's (0.9 miles)
  • West End Grill (0.9 miles)
  • The Baker (1 miles)
  • The Black Whale (1.1 miles)
  • McDonald's (1.1 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Grace Episcopal Church (1.1 miles)
  • St Mary's Religious Education (3.9 miles)

Hospitals

  • Hfcn (1.4 miles)
  • St. Luke's Hospital (1.5 miles)
  • Southcoast Health System (1.5 miles)
  • Saint Luke's Hospital of New Bedford (1.5 miles)
  • Southcoast Business Center (2.6 miles)
  • Norton & Associates (6.2 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Dartmouth Mall 11 (3 miles)

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