Frequently Asked Questions About Our Homes

Services: What do the Homes provide?

Residents must be able to get to the dining room for meals under their own power, although in some circumstances that can include a power wheelchair. Residents respect the privacy of each other’s rooms and avoid actions/behavior that would compromise others’ quality of life. Early dementia, including memory loss and some confusion, can often be accommodated. We can serve insulin dependent diabetics if they are on a regular insulin dose – one that is not variable - and if they can self-inject.

Are you nursing homes?
Bradley House and Holton Home are licensed residential care homes.  We provide services and supervision around the clock but not skilled nursing care.  Call for help in determining what’s best.  We do participate in the Choices for Care program.

Is there a nurse there all the time?
Each Home's full-time RN works Monday – Friday and is on-call at all other times.

Do you help with transportation?
Yes, we can help with medical appointments.

My loved one needs a special diet.
We follow all doctor’s orders for diets from diabetic to gluten free.  We can also cut up food before serving it.  Preferences are respected whenever possible.

Transitions: Is it time?

I just need a place for my family member on a temporary basis.
We offer short-term stays! This is a great way to get to know us for few days or a season. We also provide respite care whenever space is available.  Perhaps usual caregivers need a break or have out-of-town plans, or assistance may be needed while recovering from an injury or illness. 

How do I know it’s time for this change?
Everyone’s different.  Many of our residents tell us they weren’t sure the time had come but once they got here they were surprised to realize how much work it was to live alone.  Now they have time and energy to enjoy life.  Concerned about your loved one’s forgetfulness?  Be sure they’re safe, and make a move while they’re still able to easily learn and adapt to their new home.

I’m worried about how the transition to a new place will go.
Change is always hard but we’ve helped hundreds of elders settle into their new Home.  Be assured that with improved nutrition, medication management, personal care and social and intellectual stimulation, you’re likely to see positive changes.

The Benefits of Living in A Supportive Community

“We know from experience that when older adults move into assisted living or a life plan community, they are healthier, more active, and have a better quality of life. Now we have hard data to document those benefits.” There are many reasons to move into community sooner rather than later — read more here to explore the topic and see the research.

Who Lives at Bradley House?

Bradley House serves 36 residents all in private rooms.  Staying small means we know each resident well.  We like that.

Who do you serve?
We serve elders who are at least 65 years old.  Most of our residents are in their 80s and 90s.  A few have cars and may volunteer in the community.  Some go for walks around the neighborhood alone.  When the weather is nice, most of our residents enjoy getting outside on the Home’s walkways and in the gardens or just sitting in the gazebo.  Many are most comfortable leaving the grounds when they’re with someone else who can assist them. 

Are you a welcoming facility?
Absolutely.  We embrace diversity among all residents and their families.

Do you serve people from outside the Brattleboro area?
Many of our residents come from out of town to be near family members.  All are welcome.

Will you take someone who . . . ?
Residents must be able to get to the dining room for meals under their own power, although in some circumstances that can include a power wheelchair. Residents respect the privacy of each other’s rooms and avoid actions/behavior that would compromise others’ quality of life. Early dementia, including memory loss and some confusion, can often be accommodated. We can serve insulin-dependent diabetics if they are on a regular insulin dose – one that is not variable - and if they can self-inject.

What is daily life like?

What about smoking?
No, we don’t allow smoking anywhere in the Home or on the grounds. 

Do you allow pets?
Quiet pets are welcome if they can be cared for independently, without staff’s help. Bradley House has birds and cat-neighbors who have adopted us. We also arrange for animal visits throughout the year, including spring lambs and puppies. Please speak with our admissions coordinator about our current pet policy and options for pets.

Are there other rules we should know about?
Our biggest rule is, “The residents don’t live in our facility; we work in their home.”  We work hard to live up to that by accommodating residents’ preferences as much as possible. 

Are the rooms private?
All rooms are private and have a private bath, most with a handicapped-accessible shower.

May my family member bring their own furniture?
Absolutely.  Familiar belongings, from a favorite easy chair to precious photographs, help a person feel at home.