Key Takeaway:
Grafton County offers a diverse range of nursing home options, with services tailored to the needs of its growing senior population. Understanding the types of care, facility profiles, costs, and financial assistance programs is essential for families seeking the best support for their loved ones.
What Makes a Great Nursing Home?
A great nursing home provides more than just medical care—it fosters dignity, independence, and a sense of community. In Grafton County, the best facilities combine skilled nursing, specialized therapies, and enriching activities in a safe, compassionate environment. Choosing the right home involves evaluating care quality, amenities, staff expertise, and financial options.
Understanding Nursing Homes: Types and Services
Nursing homes are licensed facilities offering 24/7 medical supervision and assistance with daily living activities. They differ from assisted living (which is less medically intensive) and home care (which is provided in the individual’s residence).
Types of care provided:
- Short-term rehabilitation:Â For recovery after surgery, illness, or injury.
- Long-term residential care:Â For ongoing support with daily tasks and chronic conditions.
- Specialized care: Memory care for dementia/Alzheimer’s, palliative and hospice care.
Core services include:
- Skilled nursing and medication management
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Social activities and enrichment programs
- Case management and family support
Grafton County Demographics & Healthcare Needs
Grafton County’s population is aging rapidly, with over 20% of residents aged 65 or older—higher than the state average. Seniors commonly face chronic conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and mobility impairments. Many live alone or have limited family support, increasing reliance on nursing homes for both medical and social needs .
Key statistics:
| Indicator | Value (2025) |
|---|---|
| Total Population | 93,181 |
| Median Age | 44.0 years |
| % Population 65+ | >20% |
| % Seniors with Disability | 21% (65–74), 43% (75+) |
Nursing Home Facilities in Grafton County: Profiles and Options
Grafton County Nursing Home (North Haverhill)
- Location:Â 3855 Dartmouth College Highway, North Haverhill, NH
- Capacity:Â 135 beds
- Services:Â Long-term care, short-term rehab, memory care (30 beds), hospice, activities, social work, and more
- Ratings:Â 3 stars overall (Medicare.gov), 5 stars for staffing, 4 stars for quality measures
- Recent Inspections:Â 8 deficiencies in Jan 2025 (nutrition, infection control, etc.), no fines in past 3 years
Kendal at Hanover
- Location:Â 67 Cummings Road, Hanover, NH
- Capacity:Â 5 skilled nursing beds (part of a larger CCRC)
- Services: Full continuum—independent living, assisted living, memory support, skilled nursing, wellness programs
- Ratings:Â 5 stars overall (Medicare.gov), historically high inspection scores
Hanover Terrace Health & Rehabilitation Center
- Location:Â 49 Lyme Road, Hanover, NH
- Capacity:Â 100 beds
- Services:Â Short-term rehab, long-term care, wound care, memory support, therapies
- Ratings:Â Special Focus Facility Candidate (CMS), history of serious quality issues, $110,117 fine in Dec 2022
Glencliff Home
- Location:Â 393 High Street, Glencliff, NH
- Capacity:Â 130 beds
- Services:Â Long-term care for adults with severe mental illness or developmental disabilities, psychiatric and medical services, memory care
- Ratings:Â 3 stars overall (Medicare.gov), 5 stars for staffing
No new nursing homes have opened in Grafton County as of late 2025.
Services, Amenities, and Quality of Life
Grafton County nursing homes offer:
- 24/7 medical care by registered nurses and certified nursing assistants
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Memory care units with specialized staff
- Hospice and palliative care
- Nutritious, chef-prepared meals
- Comfortable private or semi-private rooms
- Landscaped gardens, on-site salons, and regular social activities
- Family-friendly visiting policies, including virtual options
These features ensure safety, socialization, and emotional well-being for residents, while providing peace of mind for families.
Costs and Financial Assistance
Current monthly costs (2025):
| Facility/Area | Monthly Cost (2025) |
|---|---|
| Grafton County Nursing Home | $3,300–$9,186 |
| Grafton County Medicaid Rate | $7,696.56 |
| Grafton County Area Average | $6,243 |
| New Hampshire State Average | $8,730 |
| National Median (Private Room) | $10,965 |
Most facilities in Grafton County charge between $7,000 and $10,500 per month, depending on services and room type.
Financial assistance options:
- Medicaid:Â Covers long-term care for eligible low-income seniors. 2025 income limit: $2,901/month (single), $5,802/month (couple); asset limit: $2,500 (single), $5,000 (couple). Medical need assessment required.
- Medicare:Â Covers up to 100 days of short-term skilled nursing after a qualifying hospital stay; does not cover long-term custodial care.
- VA Aid & Attendance:Â Additional pension for eligible veterans and spouses needing daily assistance.
- Long-term care insurance:Â May offset costs, but coverage varies.
- State programs:Â NH Department of Health and Human Services offers resources and guidance.
Trends, Challenges, and Innovations
Current trends:
- Technology integration:Â Telehealth, electronic health records, and remote monitoring are improving care and communication.
- Person-centered care: Individualized care plans that respect residents’ preferences and life stories.
- Community partnerships:Â Collaborations with hospitals, volunteer organizations, and schools enrich resident life.
Challenges:
- Staff recruitment and retention:Â High turnover and shortages, especially in rural areas.
- Regulatory compliance:Â Stringent standards require ongoing investment.
- COVID-19 recovery:Â Enhanced infection control and flexible visitation policies remain priorities.
How to Choose the Right Nursing Home: Practical Steps
- Research:Â Use Medicare.gov, state inspection reports, and online reviews.
- Visit:Â Tour facilities, observe staff-resident interactions, and check cleanliness.
- Ask questions:Â About staffing ratios, emergency procedures, activities, and family involvement.
- Review costs and coverage: Understand what’s included, and confirm insurance/Medicaid eligibility.
- Consult experts:Â Speak with elder care advocates, social workers, or elder law attorneys for guidance.
Questions to ask during visits:
- What are your staffing ratios, especially on nights and weekends?
- How do you handle medical emergencies?
- What activities and therapies are available?
- How do you support residents with dementia?
- Are families involved in care planning?
Summary Table: Grafton County Nursing Home Comparison
| Facility Name | Beds | Services Offered | Medicare.gov Rating | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grafton County Nursing Home | 135 | Long-term, rehab, memory, hospice | 3 stars | 5-star staffing, county-owned |
| Kendal at Hanover | 5* | Full continuum, memory, wellness | 5 stars | CCRC, luxury amenities |
| Hanover Terrace Health & Rehab | 100 | Rehab, long-term, wound, memory | SFF Candidate | History of quality issues |
| Glencliff Home | 130 | Long-term, psychiatric, memory | 3 stars | State-run, specialized care |
*Part of a larger continuing care retirement community
Conclusion
Grafton County’s nursing homes are adapting to the needs of a rapidly aging population by offering a range of high-quality services, innovative care models, and community partnerships. Families should take a proactive approach: research options, visit facilities, ask questions, and seek financial guidance to ensure their loved ones receive the best possible care.
Ready to take the next step?
Reach out to local resources, schedule tours, and connect with elder care advocates in Grafton County. With the right information and support, you can findyour loved one.
