Our Care
Life at John Bertram Homes is shaped by meaningful daily experiences. From exercise and music to outings, games, arts, religious services, and community events, residents have opportunities to stay active, social, and connected.
Purposeful Days, Meaningful Moments
Daily programs at John Bertram Homes support routine, friendships, physical movement, cognitive engagement, creativity, spiritual life, and emotional well-being. They’re the reason most days don’t feel long.
For families worried that a parent or loved one will be isolated, this is where to look first. A well-run activities calendar is one of the most reliable measures of community life — and at both Salem and Swampscott, ours is full.

Activity Categories
Gentle movement, stretching, walking, and wellness activities throughout the week.
Crafts, painting, music, and creative programs that bring color into the day.
Trivia, cards, group games, and social gatherings that build friendships.
Seasonal outings, local experiences, and community events across the North Shore.
Spiritual and religious programming for residents who value faith-based connection.
Programs that bring residents, families, volunteers, and staff together.
Monthly Calendars
Browse the current calendar for either community. Programming varies month to month.
Monthly Activity Calendars
“Everyone here is loving and kind, always trying to help in every way they can. I feel truly at home and cared for at Bertram House.”
— An 8-year resident
Questions Families Ask
Activities are offered daily at both communities — morning, afternoon, and evening. The calendar varies month to month based on resident interests, seasons, and special events.
Yes. Residents choose what they want to join. Our team helps connect each resident with programs that fit their interests, abilities, and energy on any given day.
Yes. Each community has its own activities team and monthly calendar. The two calendars share a similar philosophy but reflect each community’s personality and resident interests.
Regularly. Outings include shopping trips, restaurants, scenic drives, cultural attractions, religious services, theater visits, and seasonal events across Boston’s North Shore.
Yes — family and community events are a regular part of programming. We love seeing families join in.
Yes. Both communities offer religious and spiritual programming. Salem includes our award-winning non-denominational "Gifts for the Soul" program, and Swampscott offers communion, Protestant worship, and holiday celebrations.
Our Reminiscence neighborhood at Swampscott offers memory-friendly programming — music, gentle movement, reminiscence, and sensory activities designed for residents living with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The best way to feel our communities is to visit during an activity. Schedule a tour and we’ll time your visit accordingly.