Pittsfield is the largest city in Berkshire County, Massachusetts. Approximately 44,000 people live in the city, and about 20% are aged 65 and older. According to Live 95.9, Pittsfield is listed as one of the best places to retire in the United States. This is partly due to a cost of living that’s lower than the national average and an overall low rate of crime. The city has an abundance of trails for afternoon hikes as well as shopping, restaurants and several museums for day trips, and Albany, New York, is approximately an hour away for residents who want to explore a larger city.
Seniors who require help with daily living have a choice of four assisted living communities within the city limits and five close by. These communities have an average cost of $5,789 per month.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
Assisted living in Pittsfield costs around $5,789 per month according to the 2020 Cost of Care Survey. This is $296 less than the state average of $6,085 and $1,489 more than the national average of $4,300. In New York, the cost of assisted living is around $4,800 per month, and in Connecticut, assisted living is $6,300. New Hampshire has a median monthly average of $6,650.
Cities in Massachusetts range in cost from $5,488 in Worcester to $6,388 in Barnstable. Pittsfield seniors pay $39 more than those in Springfield and $989 more than those in nearby Albany. In Boston, the monthly cost is $6,100 per month, which is $311 more than Pittsfield.
Low-income seniors who need help paying for services in long-term care may apply for the Frail Elder Waiver (FEW). This Home- and Community-Based Services waiver is available to seniors aged 60 and older to pay for services in long-term care facilities, including grooming, bathing, housekeeping, transportation and meals.
Learn more about this waiver, including how to apply, at our Assisted Living in Massachusetts page.
Contact | Description | |
Elder Services of Berkshire County | (413) 499-0524 | Elder Services of Berkshire County is a nonprofit organization that delivers programs and services to older adults throughout the area. These programs include nutritional counseling, meals, information and referrals, home care services and family caregiver supports. They also offer transportation to and from local senior centers and for medical appointments or errands. |
Pittsfield Council on Aging | (413) 499-9346 | The Pittsfield Council on Aging focuses its interests on seniors aged 55 and older in the community through a variety of programs and services. The council operates the Ralph J. Froio Senior Center, which offers woodworking, ceramics, computer classes, fitness and a coffee shop. It also helps inform and educate the community on current senior issues and seeks support from community organizations to help address the needs of the elderly. |
WestMass ElderCare | (413) 538-9020 | WestMass ElderCare helps older adults and individuals with disabilities improve their quality of life and live independently. Services include insurance counseling, options counseling, nutrition and money management. |
Massachusetts Long-Term Care Ombudsman | (855) 781-9898 | The Massachusetts long-term care ombudsman speaks on behalf of residents in long-term care communities when there are complaints of abuse, fraud and neglect or other issues. The ombudsman visits assisted living communities and makes sure that they’re operating under state and federal standards, and it provides information on elder rights to seniors, family members and caregivers. |
Berkshire Regional Transit Authority | (413) 499-2782 | The Berkshire Regional Transit Authority provides transportation for older adults and those with disabilities. All vans are equipped with wheelchair lifts and are available for curb-to-curb service. |
Assisted living communities in Pittsfield are regulated by the Executive Office of Elder Affairs. The office provides standards for staffing, health and safety, room and board and all personal care activities. Learn more about these standards at our Assisted Living in Massachusetts page.