Overall sentiment across the collected reviews is predominantly positive about Brookdale Fairhaven, with frequent and strong praise for the staff, cleanliness, and social environment. Many reviewers emphasize that the staff — from directors to caregivers and nursing techs — are caring, approachable and professional. Families frequently call out good communication, regular updates, and staff who greet residents by name and provide individualized attention. The facility’s small size and one-level layout are often framed as strengths: residents get personalized care in a bright, well-kept environment with pleasant gardens and a quiet, secure atmosphere.
Care quality is a recurring positive theme: several reviewers note attentive nursing teams, reliable medication monitoring, coordination with physicians, and successful management of special diets (kidney, vegetarian, etc.). There are multiple accounts of residents improving (for example gaining weight) or thriving socially, making new friends, and enjoying the activities program. A number of reviewers specifically praised leadership and the director of nursing, and some highlighted effective coordination of hospice services in difficult transitions.
That said, the reviews reveal meaningful inconsistencies and a few serious negative incidents that prospective families should investigate. While many describe excellent medical oversight, at least one detailed report describes a critical failure in oxygen/respiratory management (no oxygen saturation checks, no contact with the medical supply company, no pulmonologist appointment arranged, no family notification, resulting in an ER visit). Other negative comments include reports of inadequate staff performance, unmet promises, and at least one instance described as staff refusing to follow physician orders. These accounts suggest that while high-quality care is common, it may not be uniformly reliable; families should verify clinical protocols and escalation procedures in person.
Facility and amenity observations are mixed. The building is repeatedly described as clean, bright, and nicely decorated with a pleasant dining area and gardens. However, multiple reviewers mention that apartments—especially studios—are smaller than expected, and some feel that the cost is high for the unit size. There is also mention of limited unit types (mostly studio/one-bedroom options), which could complicate transitions for residents who need a larger suite. A few reviewers remarked that the environment can feel more like a nursing home than assisted living, depending on expectations and resident mix. One reviewer noted a gender imbalance (more male residents), and others pointed out that some apartments have better views than others.
Dining and activities are generally seen as strengths: reviewers cite varied menus, dietary accommodations, nutritious meals, and many social/entertainment options. Still, some people felt the meals could be better or that not every resident is fully engaged by the activities program. Activity engagement appears to depend on individual preference and mobility; one practical limitation mentioned is that residents with mobility limitations requiring a lift could not be accommodated in at least one case.
Logistical and administrative concerns appear in several reviews: the transportation/resident bus was reported out of service with no clear resumption date despite residents paying for the service. A few respondents described the move-in sales process as pushy or sales-driven, with promises that were not always delivered post‑move. These operational issues, together with reports of isolated but serious lapses in medical response, indicate variability in follow-through on services and commitments.
Recommendations for prospective residents and families based on these reviews: (1) tour the facility multiple times and inspect unit sizes and views to ensure the physical space meets expectations; (2) ask specifically about clinical protocols — especially oxygen management, vital-sign checks, how medical appointments and supply company interactions are handled, and what happens in an emergency; (3) confirm transportation services and any charges associated with them and get timelines for service resumption if currently unavailable; (4) clarify what activities are offered, how residents are engaged, and whether your loved one’s interests will be supported; (5) review contract terms carefully for promised services, and ask for designated contacts for coordination and communication.
In summary, Brookdale Fairhaven receives widespread praise for its staff, cleanliness, and social atmosphere, and many families report residents thriving there. However, there are notable and sometimes serious exceptions around medical responsiveness, mobility accommodations, and service follow-through. The overall picture is of a well-run, small assisted living community that delivers strong personal care in many cases, but where due diligence and clear, written assurances are advisable before committing, especially for residents with complex medical or mobility needs.
