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The Ultimate Senior Resource

Senior Living in Dartmouth, MA

Explore senior living options in this coastal southeastern Massachusetts community where assisted living averages $8,260 monthly.

2 Communities

Dartmouth, Massachusetts offers seniors a blend of coastal New England charm and modern conveniences, with 2 senior living communities serving the area. Located in southeastern Massachusetts along Buzzards Bay, this historic town provides a peaceful setting with access to beaches, conservation areas, and a strong sense of community that many seniors find appealing.

The estimated monthly cost for assisted living in Dartmouth is $8,260, which is notably higher than the national average of $5,900, reflecting the overall cost of living in southeastern Massachusetts. Nursing home care runs approximately $12,988 monthly for a semi-private room, also exceeding the national average of $9,277. These costs reflect the quality of care and the desirable coastal location that Dartmouth provides.

Seniors choosing Dartmouth benefit from proximity to excellent medical facilities in nearby New Bedford and Fall River, along with the town's own healthcare resources. The area's natural beauty, including waterfront access and conservation lands, provides opportunities for outdoor recreation and a high quality of life for those seeking a quieter alternative to urban settings while remaining close to essential services.

Cost of Senior Living in Dartmouth

Senior living costs in Dartmouth reflect the area's desirable southeastern Massachusetts coastal location. Assisted living averages approximately $8,260 per month, which is 40% above the national average of $5,900, while nursing home care costs around $12,988 monthly for a semi-private room compared to the national average of $9,277. These higher costs align with Massachusetts' overall living expenses and the quality of care provided. Families should note that actual costs vary significantly based on the level of care required, room type, amenities offered, and the specific community chosen, making personalized tours and consultations essential.

Assisted Living
$8,260
per month
Nursing Home (Semi-Private)
$12,988
per month
Home Health Aide
$8,750
per month

Neighborhoods in Dartmouth for Seniors

Padanaram Village

Padanaram Village is Dartmouth's charming harbor village, offering a walkable downtown with boutique shops, restaurants, and scenic waterfront views. This picturesque neighborhood features a strong community atmosphere with seasonal events and farmers markets. Seniors appreciate the village's historic New England character, easy access to the harbor bridge for scenic walks, and proximity to local services. The neighborhood's pedestrian-friendly layout makes it ideal for active seniors who enjoy strolling to coffee shops and dining establishments. While hillier in some sections, the village center provides convenient amenities within a compact, navigable area.

North Dartmouth

North Dartmouth serves as the town's commercial hub, centered around the Route 6 corridor with shopping centers, medical offices, and essential services. This area offers convenient access to grocery stores, pharmacies, banks, and restaurants without needing to travel far. Seniors find North Dartmouth practical for everyday needs, with good road access and ample parking. The neighborhood is home to healthcare facilities and is near UMass Dartmouth. While more suburban and car-dependent than Padanaram, North Dartmouth provides excellent accessibility to services that seniors frequently use, making it a practical choice for those prioritizing convenience.

South Dartmouth

South Dartmouth offers a quieter, more residential atmosphere with tree-lined streets and established neighborhoods. This area provides a peaceful setting while maintaining reasonable proximity to Route 6 services and Padanaram Village. Seniors are drawn to South Dartmouth's family-friendly environment, good neighborhood stability, and access to conservation areas and walking trails. The neighborhood features a mix of single-family homes and is generally safer and quieter than more commercial areas. While requiring a car for most errands, South Dartmouth appeals to seniors seeking tranquility and a strong residential community feel.

Russells Mills

Russells Mills is a historic village area in northeastern Dartmouth, known for its rural character and natural beauty. This neighborhood features conservation lands, the scenic Slocums River, and a distinctly pastoral New England atmosphere. Seniors who appreciate nature, quiet surroundings, and outdoor activities find Russells Mills particularly appealing. The area offers opportunities for bird watching, gentle hiking, and enjoying seasonal changes in a less developed setting. While more remote and requiring transportation for services, Russells Mills provides a serene environment for seniors seeking peace and connection to nature while remaining within Dartmouth's boundaries.

Senior Care Options in Dartmouth

Dartmouth's 2 senior living communities provide options for various care needs, including assisted living for seniors who need help with daily activities, and independent living for active seniors seeking maintenance-free lifestyles. Many communities in the Dartmouth area offer flexible care arrangements that can adapt as needs change, allowing residents to age in place. Memory care and skilled nursing services are also accessible through facilities in the immediate region.

Healthcare & Transportation

Dartmouth seniors have access to quality healthcare through local medical practices and nearby Southcoast Health facilities, including St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford and Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, both within 15 minutes. The town offers medical specialists, primary care physicians, and urgent care centers in the North Dartmouth area. Transportation options include the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA), which provides fixed-route and paratransit services for seniors and individuals with disabilities. However, Dartmouth is primarily car-dependent, and many seniors rely on personal vehicles, family assistance, or community-provided transportation for appointments and errands.

Activities & Recreation Near Dartmouth

Dartmouth offers seniors abundant outdoor recreation including Demarest Lloyd State Park for beach access and Destruction Brook Woods for nature walks. The town features the Dartmouth Farmers Market, local libraries with senior programming, and proximity to coastal attractions along Buzzards Bay. Cultural activities are available at nearby New Bedford's Whaling Museum and Zeiterion Theatre, while Lloyd Center for the Environment provides educational nature programs perfect for active seniors interested in local ecology.

Weather & Climate in Dartmouth

Dartmouth experiences typical New England coastal weather with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant with temperatures in the 70s and 80s, moderated by ocean breezes, while winters are cold with temperatures often below freezing and occasional snowfall. The coastal location can bring fog and humidity, and seniors should be prepared for icy conditions in winter months, though the maritime influence generally keeps temperatures slightly milder than inland Massachusetts communities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Senior Living in Dartmouth

What is the average cost of senior living in Dartmouth, MA?
Assisted living in Dartmouth costs approximately $8,260 per month, while nursing home care averages $12,988 monthly for a semi-private room. These costs are notably higher than national averages due to Massachusetts' cost of living and the quality coastal location, but specific pricing varies by community, care level, and amenities provided.
How many senior living communities are in Dartmouth?
Dartmouth currently has 2 senior living communities listed in our directory. While this number is modest compared to larger cities, seniors and their families can also explore additional options in nearby New Bedford, Fall River, and Fairhaven, which are all within a short drive and offer expanded choices for care and lifestyle preferences.
What makes Dartmouth a good choice for seniors?
Dartmouth offers seniors a peaceful coastal New England setting with access to beaches, conservation areas, and a strong community atmosphere. The town balances small-town charm with convenient access to shopping, healthcare, and services, particularly along the Route 6 corridor. Seniors appreciate the natural beauty, safety, and proximity to larger medical centers in nearby cities while enjoying a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.
Are there memory care facilities in Dartmouth?
While Dartmouth has limited dedicated memory care facilities, some of the area's senior living communities may offer memory care services or specialized programming for residents with Alzheimer's or dementia. Families seeking memory care should inquire directly with local communities and also consider nearby options in New Bedford and surrounding towns that specialize in this type of care.
What healthcare facilities serve Dartmouth seniors?
Dartmouth seniors have access to local medical practices and are served by Southcoast Health's network, including St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford and Charlton Memorial Hospital in Fall River, both approximately 15 minutes away. The North Dartmouth area features medical offices, specialists, urgent care, and pharmacies, ensuring comprehensive healthcare access for the senior community.

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