FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to live at Summercrest?
Adults who are 62 years of age and older are eligible to live at Summercrest.
What living options does Summercrest offer for older adults?
Summercrest offers an Independent Living Program for those who enjoy the services, amenities, socialization and activities offered by our community but who still want the privacy and independence of their own apartment. The Assisted Living Program is designed to maximize quality of life through assisting residents with Activities of Daily Living (ADL’s) while preserving their dignity and independence. Our secure Memory Care Program in The Seasons at Summercrest gives comfort and enjoyment to those with memory loss. The Seasons is designed with an intentional open concept which provides residents with an engaging place to call home.
Are pets allowed?
Yes! We understand that your pets are an important part of your family and we encourage you to bring them along. Small cats and dogs are permitted in the Independent and Assisted Living Programs and there is a community cat living in The Seasons.
Are there any restrictions on my coming and going?
Certainly not! This is your apartment. You can come and go at your leisure. We are not here to restrict your lifestyle; we are here to enhance it.
Can I keep my car?
You can keep your car as long as you have a current driver’s license and receive a doctor’s recommendation. Summercrest has designated resident parking spaces that are available at no additional cost.
If I no longer drive, do you offer transportation?
Yes, we offer transportation to medical appointments within a 25 mile radius. This radius includes Newport, Sunapee, Newbury, New London, and Claremont. Transportation is also provided to the local grocery stores, drug stores, banks, post office, and library.
Is there an entrance fee or buy in?
There is no entrance fee or buy in but there is a one-time application fee of $500.
Do I have to sign a lease?
Yes, Summercrest has a lease agreement that locks in your rent rate for a year from the date of signing. The lease may be terminated for any reason with a 30 day written notice.
Will I have a private apartment & bathroom?
Yes, all of our living programs offer private apartments with private bathrooms. Each apartment door is lockable and we respect your privacy.
Can I furnish my apartment with my own things?
We encourage all residents to decorate their apartments with their favorite things. Please plan to bring your furniture, pictures, linens and knick knacks. We want your apartment at Summercrest to be your home!
Are there restrictions to having visitors?
There are no restrictions to having visitors. Encourage your friends and family to visit at any time. Feel free to entertain others whenever you choose.
What happens if my health needs change?
If a resident’s health needs change we will do our best to accommodate these changes. The staff at Summercrest has long term, established relationships with area physicians, home care organizations, hospitals and nursing homes. We will work with these resources, the resident and their families to address and resolve any health concerns which occur. If a resident’s health needs are greater than we can safely meet, we will work with other appropriate health care providers to assist in a smooth transition to a higher level of care.
How does The Seasons at Summercrest Memory Care Program personalize service to residents?
Our secure memory care community was built specifically with the distinct needs of memory impaired adults in mind. Our open concept floor plan allows for residents to see and be seen at all times. Each resident has a care plan structured in collaboration with the resident, his or her doctor, family members and The Seasons staff members. We care for our residents with dignity and respect at all times.
Does specialized Memory Care really make a difference?
Yes, the correct environment plays a big role in determining quality of life for people with dementia. In a setting designed to minimize disorientation and maximize security, residents are engaged by staff and they find enjoyment in life. Specialized care maximizes quality of life for residents and gives peace of mind to families.
How can specialized Memory Care help my relationship with my loved one?
Our highly skilled staff can take away the stress of being the primary caregiver so the relationship between the memory impaired individual and their family members can be reestablished. The focus and energy is no longer spent being the caregiver and it is redirected to the core relationship whether it be with husband and wife, parent and child, siblings or friends.
Who owns Summercrest?
The owners of Summercrest have deep roots in the Dartmouth/Lake Sunapee communities ensuring that Summercrest is operating with a focus on providing a secure, nurturing residence for their neighbors and friends. Five Newport business owners created Hospital Hill realty, Inc. in 1991. Their main purpose was to purchase the closed town hospital building. After buying the old hospital building and property, Summercrest was built with the help of a new partner, Valley Regional Healthcare. In the years following, the need for experienced managers was evident and Dan Hassan, President of Grand Senior Living, and Steve Gunnerson, Summercrest Administrator, were invited to join the ownership group in 2007 and 2014, respectively.
Is smoking allowed on Summercrest property?
For the safety and health of our residents, guests and staff Summercrest is a smoke free campus.
Who decides which hospital I go to if I have an emergency?
Residents choose their preferred local hospital; Valley Regional Hospital or New London Hospital.
How is the food at Summercrest?
The food at Summercrest is great! Our chef incorporates the nutritional elements needed in a senior diet to provide meals that are hearty and healthy. After being away from Summercrest for a few days, one of our residents was asked what she missed the most about Summercrest, she responded “The food!”
