Exceptional Senior Living on Boston's North Shore
One block from the ocean — 59 beautifully appointed residences with personalized care, vibrant activities, and ocean access within 10 minutes walking distance.
John Bertram House of Swampscott offers an unparalleled assisted living experience just one block from the ocean on beautiful Humphrey Street — often described as feeling "more like a bed and breakfast than a resort or hospital."
Established in 1997 on the former site of the historic New Ocean House Hotel, our community brings together the warmth of a family home and the resources of an expertly managed senior living community. With 59 beautifully appointed residences, ocean access within a 10-minute walk, and a team of dedicated, experienced caregivers, life here is truly exceptional.
59 total residences in three styles, plus beautifully appointed common areas that make every day feel like home.
Most spacious option
Separate living room, private bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette with one or two closets. Select first-floor units offer deck or patio access for outdoor enjoyment.
Efficient & comfortable
Private bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette, and ample closet space. Select first-floor studios feature deck access. A cozy, manageable space for comfortable living.
Memory care neighborhood
Available exclusively in our Reminiscence (memory care) neighborhood. Shared living arrangements to promote social connection and emotional growth for memory care residents.
Our approach to wellness is rooted in a social model of care — supporting independence, strong social connections, and a sense of purpose alongside attentive personal care. Residents continue seeing their own physicians and specialists, while our team provides essential daily support and wellness oversight.
Care is coordinated by our Resident Care Director, Wellness Nurses, and Assisted Living Coordinators, who collaborate with each resident and their family to build an individualized service plan. For residents in our dedicated Reminiscence memory care neighborhood, that support extends to specialized, compassionate care for those living with Alzheimer's and memory loss.
Every resident receives a customized plan covering:
"The Bertram communities are dedicated to promoting the highest level of Wellness for each of our residents, through a combination of encouraging independence, providing support when needed, and communicating regularly with family members, residents, and each resident's personal medical team."
Meals at John Bertram House of Swampscott are a highlight of every day. Our dining room — "often compared to a country inn" — sets a warm, elegant stage with attentive service and the company of friends and neighbors.
Our chefs prepare fresh, home-style meals daily, accommodating special dietary needs and preferences as part of each resident's personalized service plan. Through our Universal Caregiver Model, the same caring team that serves your meals knows you by name.
Three meals a day plus snacks are included, with hydration and fresh options available throughout the day.
A flexible morning with coffee, tea, fresh fruit, cereals, eggs, and breakfast favorites — start your day your way.
A hearty midday meal with chef-prepared entrées, fresh vegetables, salads, and desserts served in our elegant dining room.
A lighter evening meal of soups, sandwiches, comforting entrées, and sweet finishes shared with friends.
Fresh fruit, baked goods, and refreshments available throughout the day in our common areas.
Life at John Bertram House of Swampscott is full and engaging. Our comprehensive activities calendar offers something for every interest and ability — from vigorous exercise to quiet contemplation, from artistic expression to community service.
We regularly venture out to the finest cultural attractions of Boston's North Shore and beyond.
See everything happening this month — exercise, music, outings, games, spiritual life, and more — on our full monthly activities calendar.
Go to Activities CalendarOur dedicated Swampscott team supports both assisted living and Reminiscence memory care residents.
Executive Director
Director of Community Operations
Reminiscence Coordinator
Activities Director
Dining Service Coordinator
Maintenance Coordinator
565 Humphrey Street
Swampscott, MA 01907
(781) 595-1991 — Main
We respond within one business day. We'd love to show you our beautiful community.
Take the Callahan Tunnel north on Route 1A past Logan Airport (~3 miles). Bear right toward Lynn/Marblehead; pass Wonderland MBTA and continue through Lynn. Exit Route 1A at Carroll Parkway; take the rotary to Swampscott along the shoreline (~1.8 miles). Pass Papa John's; turn left on Route 129. John Bertram House is ¼ mile on the right.
Take Route 128 North to Exit 44B (Danvers/Lynn). Follow Route 129 East 3.1 miles toward Swampscott, then follow 129A East to the ocean. Turn left on Route 129 along the shoreline; John Bertram House is approximately ¼ mile on the right at Humphrey Street.
Take Route 128 South to Exit 25 (Route 114 East/Salem). Follow signs through Salem to Salem State College; turn right on Route 1A toward Swampscott. At Vinnin Square, turn left then immediately right onto Salem Street. Follow to Humphrey Street; facility is ½ mile on the left.
