Questions and Answers About Homestead at Heritage

Homestead at Heritage is a residential, family-centered assisted living program designed specifically for individuals with memory impairment and related diseases. Each resident lives in a rental apartment furnished with familiar belongings and mementos.

How does it work?

Through lifestyle plans and ongoing assessments, residents receive the personalized attention they need to maintain comfortable, healthy lifestyles. Our goal is to promote the dignity and independence of our residents with compassionate, experienced care. Many residents are able to remain in a residential setting for a longer period of time.

What is the difference between Assisted Living and Homestead at Heritage?

Homestead at Heritage includes all the basics of an assisted living environment, but has added specialized facilities, training, resident assessment and programming designed to meet the changing needs of residents with progressive memory loss.

What are admission criteria?

Residents must be able to participate in some activities and personal care.

How long does the assessment and admission process take?

The assessment and admission period varies with each individual. We are required by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs to obtain a variety of document, including a physician's form before we can complete an evaluation. The return of these documents is a "must" before we can proceed.

Do you have to be a Heritage at Framingham resident to be admitted to the program?

No. Heritage offers our residents the security of knowing that they can receive care at Homestead if a higher level of care is needed. Individuals who are not Heritage residents can be admitted directly to Homestead.

How is the staff selected and trained?

Our staff must have a genuine concern for and interest in serving older adults. In addition to the extensive training required for all Heritage employees, Homestead staff receive additional specialized training to enable them to work effectively with Alzheimer's residents.

Is Homestead at Heritage recognized by the Alzheimer's Association?

Yes. While there is no formal certification process for Alzheimer's assisted living, the Alzheimer's Association is referring families to Homestead. The program environment is consistent with the principles of Alzheimer's care. The program complies with the Alzheimer's Association's Guidelines for Dignity: