The Brookhouse for Women sits right on Derby Street in downtown Salem, MA, and you can look out over Salem's waterfront and Derby Wharf from the windows, which is nice if you like a bit of scenery. The place is a residential care home that only takes women aged 55 and up, and it's been serving the community since 1861-folks might remember the historical name, Home for Aged and Destitute Women. It's a non-profit, Level IV Department of Public Health licensed residence, which means they're able to house up to 36 women and offer a range of care, from retirement to Alzheimer's care and assisted living. Staff are there around the clock, so if something comes up at any hour, someone can help.
You'll find a lot of choices for rooms, including studios, one-bedroom, semi-private, and two-bedroom layouts, and every resident gets a private room for safety and comfort. They do meals for everyone, which saves time, and the dietary staff can handle different food needs. Payment options are flexible-private pay, social security, veteran's benefits, and commercial insurance are all accepted, but there are several types of fees depending on what care someone needs, if it's respite, if a second person's staying, or if folks want to buy in, on top of a community fee.
Residents get help with medication, personal care, and some health services like diabetic and incontinence care, and if someone has Alzheimer's, they offer services for that, too. Activities are a big part of life here-they have an Activities Director who runs things like art, crafts, bingo, movies, word games, ice cream socials, tea, music, dance, exercise, outings, and more, with both on-site and off-site events when possible. Indoor common spaces are spread around the building-there are six large ones-plus there's a patio and gardens where people can sit and chat or just enjoy the air.
The building itself has some history, designed by Samuel McIntire, and carries a sense of tradition, with the Salem Historical Society giving some recognition back in 2011. There are plenty of books, puzzles, and games around for anyone who likes those kinds of activities, and the community offers recreational programs, community membership, and direct support. They even provide counseling and other services, focusing on keeping residents safe, helping them stay independent, and respecting personal choice. The Brookhouse aims to be an affordable, familiar home for women, with care given by people who want to support wellness and comfort, but with a real focus on treating each woman with the respect and attention she deserves.
