1. Facility Overview
Autumn Glen at Dartmouth is a senior living community located at 239 Cross Road, North Dartmouth, MA 02747. Operated by Benchmark Senior Living, this community offers multiple levels of care in a residential setting. The facility is strategically positioned near shopping districts, restaurants, and healthcare facilities, making it convenient for both residents and visiting family members.
Key Facility Information
- Location: 239 Cross Road, North Dartmouth, MA 02747
- Total Units: 120 apartments
- Property Size: Three-story building on landscaped grounds
- Opened: 2001
- Management: Benchmark Senior Living (one of the largest senior housing providers in the Northeast)
2. Care Services Offered
2.1 Care Levels
Autumn Glen at Dartmouth provides multiple levels of care to meet varying resident needs:
| Care Level | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Living | Basic support with home maintenance while maintaining autonomy | Housekeeping, maintenance, social programs |
| Assisted Living | Personalized support with daily activities | Medication management, personal care assistance, 24/7 staff |
| Memory Care | Specialized support for cognitive impairments | Mind & Memory program, secure environment, specialized staff |
| Respite Care | Short-term stays for recovery or caregiver relief | All amenities and services of full-time residents |
2.2 Core Services
The facility offers a comprehensive range of services across all care levels:
- 24-hour staff availability
- Personalized care plans
- Medication management
- Assistance with activities of daily living (bathing, dressing, etc.)
- Weekly housekeeping and linen service
- Transportation services
- Emergency response system
- Care coordination with healthcare providers
2.3 Memory Care: Mind & Memory Approach
For residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, Autumn Glen offers Benchmark’s signature Mind & Memory program featuring:
- Specially trained staff
- Secure, easy-to-navigate environment
- Therapeutic programming designed for cognitive engagement
- Structured daily routines to reduce anxiety
- Person-centered approach to memory care
3. Living Accommodations
3.1 Apartment Options
Residents can choose from various floor plans designed to suit different preferences and needs:
- Studio apartments
- One-bedroom apartments
- Two-bedroom apartments
- Memory Care studios in a secure neighborhood
3.2 Apartment Features
Standard features in the residences include:
- Kitchenettes (full kitchens in some units)
- Private bathrooms with safety features
- Individual climate control
- Cable TV access
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Emergency call systems
- Window treatments
- Carpeting and/or hardwood-style flooring
4. Amenities and Community Features
4.1 Dining Services
The dining program at Autumn Glen emphasizes quality and variety:
- Restaurant-style dining room
- Three meals daily prepared by professional chefs
- Menu options accommodating dietary restrictions
- Selective menu with daily specials
- Private dining room for special occasions
- Bistro for casual snacks and beverages
4.2 Common Areas and Recreational Spaces
The community offers numerous spaces designed for socialization and activities:
- Common living room with fireplace
- Library and reading areas
- Activity and game rooms
- Beauty salon/barbershop
- Fitness center
- Landscaped grounds with walking paths
- Outdoor patios and seating areas
- Country kitchen for cooking activities
- Theater room for movies and presentations
4.3 Wellness Features
The wellness program encompasses physical, mental, and social well-being:
- Fitness center with senior-appropriate equipment
- Exercise classes tailored to different ability levels
- Balance and mobility programs
- Health monitoring services
- Visiting healthcare professionals
- Wellness education programs
5. Activities and Programming
5.1 Daily Calendar
Autumn Glen maintains an active schedule of programs designed to engage residents:
| Activity Type | Examples | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Fitness | Chair yoga, walking club, balance classes | Daily |
| Creative Arts | Painting, crafts, music appreciation | Weekly |
| Educational | Guest speakers, discussion groups, brain games | Weekly |
| Social | Happy hours, birthday celebrations, tea parties | Weekly |
| Entertainment | Musical performances, movies, special events | Weekly |
| Outings | Shopping trips, restaurant visits, cultural excursions | Monthly |
5.2 Specialized Programming
The community offers several signature programs:
- Benchmark Experiences: Monthly celebration of signature events and themed programming
- Lifelong Learning: Educational opportunities through partnerships with local cultural institutions
- Mind & Memory: Cognitive stimulation activities for residents with memory impairment
- Harbor Program: Specialized activities for those with early to mid-stage memory loss
5.3 Community Integration
Autumn Glen strives to maintain connections with the broader community through:
- Volunteer opportunities
- Intergenerational programs with local schools
- Community events open to the public
- Local partnerships with arts and cultural organizations
6. Resident Experience and Testimonials
6.1 Satisfaction Ratings
Autumn Glen has received positive ratings across multiple review platforms:
| Platform | Rating | Based On |
|---|---|---|
| Google Reviews | 4.1/5 stars | 23 reviews |
| 4.6/5 stars | 7 reviews | |
| SeniorAdvisor | 4.0/5 stars | Limited data |
6.2 Resident and Family Testimonials
Selected feedback highlights various aspects of the Autumn Glen experience:
“My mother has been a resident of Autumn Glen for a number of years. First in assisted living and now in the Harbor (memory care). The staff is caring and attentive, and they know each resident personally. They create individualized care plans to meet each person’s needs.” – Family Member
“The staff at Autumn Glen were very supportive when my father was a resident. The transition was made easier by their care and concern. They kept me well informed of his health and well-being.” – Family Member
“I find the activities to be engaging and enjoyable. There’s always something to do, and the staff makes an effort to include everyone.” – Resident
6.3 Areas of Excellence
Based on testimonials and reviews, Autumn Glen’s strengths include:
- Caring, attentive staff
- Quality of activities and engagement
- Clean, well-maintained environment
- Communication with families
- Quality dining services
6.4 Areas for Improvement
Some reviews mentioned:
- Occasional staffing challenges (typical of the industry)
- Some desire for more dining variety
- Limited parking during peak visiting hours
7. Pricing and Financial Information
7.1 Cost Structure
Based on available information, approximate monthly costs at Autumn Glen are:
| Care Level | Estimated Monthly Cost | Dartmouth Area Average |
|---|---|---|
| Assisted Living Studio | $4,075 – $5,325 | $4,800 |
| Assisted Living 1-Bedroom | $5,475 – $6,080 | $5,600 |
| Assisted Living 2-Bedroom | $6,520+ | $6,300 |
| Memory Care | $6,835 – $8,950 | $7,400 |
Note: Exact pricing should be confirmed directly with the facility as rates may have changed.
7.2 What’s Included in Base Rates
The monthly fees at Autumn Glen typically include:
- Apartment accommodations
- Three meals daily
- Weekly housekeeping and linen service
- All utilities (except telephone)
- Basic cable TV
- Scheduled transportation
- Daily activities and events
- 24-hour emergency response
- Maintenance services
7.3 Additional Fees
Services that may incur extra charges include:
- Additional personal care assistance beyond base level
- Medication management
- Beauty salon/barbershop services
- Guest meals
- Special outings or events
- Additional transportation beyond scheduled services
7.4 Financial Assistance Options
Autumn Glen works with residents to identify potential financial resources:
- Long-term care insurance acceptance
- Veterans Aid & Attendance benefit assistance
- Bridge loans and financing options
- Possible limited financial assistance programs
8. Management and Staff
8.1 Operator Profile: Benchmark Senior Living
Autumn Glen is operated by Benchmark Senior Living, which:
- Was founded in 1997
- Operates over 60 senior living communities across the Northeast
- Has received numerous industry awards for quality care
- Maintains a company culture centered on “Called to Care” philosophy
8.2 Staffing Approach
The facility maintains a staffing model focused on quality care:
- 24/7 care staff availability
- Licensed nursing staff
- Dedicated life enrichment team
- Specially trained memory care professionals
- Consistent staff assignments to build relationships
- Ongoing training and development programs
8.3 Management Philosophy
Benchmark’s approach to senior living emphasizes:
- Human connection as fundamental to quality of life
- Personalized care planning
- Family involvement and transparent communication
- Continuous quality improvement
- Supporting residents’ independence while providing necessary assistance
9. Local Competitor Comparison
9.1 Regional Alternatives
Autumn Glen competes with several other senior living communities in the Dartmouth area:
| Facility | Location | Care Levels | Starting Price | Distinguishing Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Residence at Cedar Dell | Dartmouth, MA | IL, AL, MC | $5,495+ | Resort-style amenities |
| Brookdale Dartmouth Village | Dartmouth, MA | AL, MC | $4,945+ | National operator with standardized programs |
| Whaler’s Cove Assisted Living | New Bedford, MA | AL | $3,240+ | Waterfront views, lower price point |
| The Cottages at Dartmouth Village | Dartmouth, MA | AL, MC | $6,300+ | Cottage-style homes, upscale options |
9.2 Comparative Advantages
Autumn Glen offers several advantages compared to local competitors:
- Established Presence: Operating since 2001, with stability and experience
- Mid-Range Pricing: More affordable than some luxury options while maintaining quality
- Mind & Memory Program: Well-regarded approach to memory care
- Benchmark Programming: Access to signature programs developed across multiple communities
- Convenient Location: Proximity to shopping, dining, and medical facilities
10. Unique Features and Differentiators
10.1 Benchmark Experiences
Benchmark’s signature program includes monthly themed experiences such as:
- Celebration of major holidays with special events
- Cultural and seasonal traditions
- Commemorations of significant historical events
- Exploration of different countries and cultures
10.2 Mind & Memory Approach
This distinctive memory care methodology incorporates:
- Sensory dining experiences
- Specialized programming throughout the day
- Environments designed to minimize confusion
- Personalized engagement plans based on life history
- Focus on remaining abilities rather than deficits
10.3 Location Advantages
The community’s location offers residents:
- Proximity to Dartmouth Mall (shopping)
- Close to St. Luke’s Hospital and medical facilities
- Accessible to restaurants and entertainment
- Relatively flat topography for outdoor walking
- Near major highways for visitor convenience
11. Community Reputation and Recognition
11.1 Awards and Accolades
While specific awards for the Autumn Glen location are limited in public information, Benchmark Senior Living has received:
- Great Place to Work certification
- Fortune Best Workplaces in Aging Services (multiple years)
- Senior Housing News Architecture & Design Award
- Massachusetts Assisted Living Association (MASS-ALA) awards
11.2 Community Involvement
Autumn Glen engages with the broader community through:
- Partnerships with local organizations
- Educational events open to the public
- Volunteer initiatives
- Support for local charitable causes
- Presence at community events
12. Decision-Making Guide
12.1 Ideal Resident Profile
Autumn Glen at Dartmouth may be particularly suitable for:
- Seniors seeking a mid-range price point with quality amenities
- Those who value an established community with experienced management
- Individuals or couples looking for multiple care levels under one roof
- Residents with memory care needs benefiting from the Mind & Memory approach
- Those wanting convenient access to Dartmouth amenities and healthcare
12.2 Key Questions to Ask When Visiting
Prospective residents and families should consider asking:
- What levels of care are available and how are transitions between them handled?
- What is the current staff-to-resident ratio during different shifts?
- How are care plans developed and how often are they updated?
- What training do staff members receive, particularly for memory care?
- How does the community handle medical emergencies?
- What activities are most popular among current residents?
- What is the staff turnover rate compared to industry averages?
- How does pricing change as care needs increase?
13. Conclusion
Autumn Glen at Dartmouth offers a comprehensive senior living experience with multiple care levels under one roof. As a Benchmark Senior Living community, it benefits from established systems, programs, and philosophies while maintaining a community-specific approach to resident care.
The facility stands out for its Mind & Memory program, convenient location, and mid-range pricing in the Dartmouth market. With positive resident reviews highlighting staff quality and engaging activities, Autumn Glen presents a solid option for seniors seeking assisted living or memory care in the Dartmouth area.
While the community may not offer the luxury amenities of some higher-priced competitors, it provides a good balance of quality care, comfortable accommodations, and supportive services. For those prioritizing established experience, comprehensive care options, and value-oriented pricing, Autumn Glen merits serious consideration.
Prospective residents and their families are encouraged to schedule a tour, participate in a meal, and speak with current residents and staff to gain a firsthand understanding of the community atmosphere and service quality.
