Culture News Blog

PORTSMOUTH — The Mark Wentworth Home has successfully reinvented itself as a state-of-the-art elderly assisted care living facility and has created a comfortable living environment full of fun, food and, most importantly, fellowship.

Recently, the Seacoast staple serving seniors for the past 100 years opened its doors as a modern senior living community designed to create a culture of successful aging for those in need of assisted living or nursing home care.

With 48 rooms capable of housing at least 48 seniors in need of assisted living, the facility also boasts a fully functional nursing home.

Several seniors have already moved into the home since May and with many more expressing their interest in the service, Executive Director Mary Ellen Dunham said the pipeline of interest is only growing stronger.

"We're more of a home than a hospital," said Dunham.

The renovation effort of the majestic property on Pleasant Street cost nearly $11.5 million and, with construction slated to culminate in month or so, Dunham and her 60 staff members are ready to roll out the red carpet to any seniors interested in calling the historic landmark home.

"It doesn't feel like a typical nursing home," she said.

Newly added amenities to the 60,000-square-foot facility include a state-of-the-art kitchen, wellness rooms and fitness centers, a brand new media room with wide-screen televisions, wireless internet access, a private library, gaming room, bistro, private dining rooms, a spa, an on-site beauty salon and a sun room.

New residents are also afforded an hour with an interior decorator, according to Dunham, who will assist them in designing their apartments in any way they see fit.

Dunham also hopes to attract several local groups to the function rooms and catering services and plans on hanging various pieces of artwork by local artists in the hallways of the home.

The Mark Wentworth Home is not only a senior living community, but also an authentic piece of American history. The mansion was the home of the last royal governor, John Wentworth, and the site of Revolutionary War activities.

With views of the Mill Pond out one side of the facility and the tranquil display of the downtown on the other, Dunham is elated the home is once again up and running and will soon provide a social outlet to the many seniors of the community looking for a friendly smile, some companionship and a comfortable place to enjoy the latter part of their lives.

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