St Joseph's Center has served the community since 1960, and folks have known it for its Catholic tradition based on the Carmelite philosophy of Mother Angeline Teresa, so people have always found respect and care there, but after more than 60 years, this place is officially closing on August 9 following the Legionella bacteria issue that forced residents to relocate earlier in March, and for some this was the only Genesis Healthcare-owned facility in Connecticut, with a license for 269 beds, though some records list 297. Residents have always had furnished, comfortable living spaces, and they could choose private or semi-private rooms, with private bathrooms, laundry rooms, and a chapel for prayer and services, and all the meals were prepared and served with restaurant-style dining, private dining for families, or even in-room service when needed. Folks could spend time in the sunroom, game room, library, fitness room, activity areas, or the gardens and walking paths, and for those social moments, there were common lounges, courtyards, beauty salon, barber shop, gift/convenience store, and even an in-house banking and postal service so life felt complete.
The center provided a wide range of care including independent living, assisted living, short-term and long-term skilled nursing, outpatient rehab, and hospice care. There was always 24-hour supervision and a call system for safety, and the trained crew-nurses, nursing assistants, therapists, coordinators, social workers, dieticians, and activities staff-worked closely with residents. Services included help with bathing, dressing, mobility, medication, and all the daily needs, while respite and palliative care programs supported both residents and families, and specialized units were set up for those who needed memory care like the Lighthouse Program for Alzheimer's support. Folks found peace and spiritual care thanks to pastoral services, and the chapel hosted prayers for those who leaned on faith. Healthcare services included physical, occupational, speech, respiratory, and contract rehabilitation therapy, plus wound and vision care, psychiatric, podiatry, dental, and audiology services, and if someone needed IV care, tracheostomy care, or restorative therapy, it was available.
St Joseph's Center also operated an adult day care center and provided home health care, hospice, and Medicaid HCBS services. The place welcomed pets, always kept a smoke-free policy, and organized transportation, plus allowed easy access to pet therapy, wellness programs, interpreter services, and discharge planning. Activities included religious, cultural, educational, and social events, with many led by both staff and residents, while outdoor gardens and scenic suburban views gave everyone a space for quiet or gathering. Residents benefited from individualized care plans and patient-centered focus. The facility always aimed to meet both the medical and personal needs of seniors and offered comfort even in hard times.
