272 Essex Street, Bangor, ME 04401
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The staff are friendly, helpful, and genuinely care about people. They provide free, nutritious meals in a warm and welcoming setting. They offer on-site support services, including rental assistance and utilities, with a responsive, helpful team. They operate more than one location nearby, increasing access for those in need. The volunteers are very nice and easy to work with. They provide year-round assistance and resources for families and individuals. People appreciate the kindness of the staff. The place is clean and the staff are courteous and respectful.
They changed the hours at this location without any notice, leaving a visitor to walk there and find a typed sign on the door. The store is not always well organized, making it hard to find items. The phone number doesn't work and appointments can't be placed; no one answers, and you can't even enter the building to ask. They turn people away for food and show no kindness or caring. Attempts to get housing assistance have gone unanswered for weeks, with no callbacks despite repeated attempts. They don't let people inside to receive food, instead bagging it up and bringing it to the door, which feels inaccessible.Dean House in Bangor, Maine is best suited for adults and families facing financial strain who need practical, no-nonsense access to meals, groceries, and a range of supportive services. It functions as a reliable safety net for those seeking a warm lunch, a community-oriented food bank, and on-site help with housing, rental assistance, and utilities. The environment is described as friendly and caring, with staff and volunteers who genuinely invest time in the people who walk through the door. For households living on fixed incomes or approaching eviction or utility concerns, Dean House offers a practical entry point to stabilize daily life while navigating longer-term supports.
However, those whose primary need is consistently reliable communication and prompt, appointment-driven assistance may want to explore alternatives. Several reviewers report difficulty contacting the right person, outdated hours, or unclear scheduling protocols, which can create frustrating delays for urgent needs like housing or drug-related support. If a quick, predictable intake and immediate referrals are crucial, other agencies or programs with clearer intake processes may serve better. Dean House remains valuable, but it is not a flawless, one-stop solution for every service category.
The strongest positives center on the human side: compassionate staff, a welcoming atmosphere, and a robust menu of services that actually move people forward. The on-site social worker presence and the availability of soup, meals, and food packages provide tangible, daily relief. The center's emphasis on dignity - no-judgment spaces, respectful treatment, and a community-minded vibe - helps reduce the stress that comes with need. For families trying to cobble together rent assistance, utility support, or basic groceries, these elements create real momentum even when other systems feel slow or opaque.
Yet, the recurring drawbacks are real enough to shape the decision. Communication gaps - whether about hours, how to reach the right person, or what services are currently available - can hamper dependability. Reports of being turned away or encountering indifferent responses, as well as inconsistent doors or entry points, undermine trust during crises. These operational frictions matter most when time is of the essence, such as urgent housing notices or rapid financial strain. Potential visitors should plan for versioned information, verify hours in advance, and be prepared for variability.
A practical approach to leveraging Dean House is to use it as a central hub for stabilization and access to longer-term supports, while buffering expectations about speed and consistency. Call ahead to confirm today's offerings, bring essential documentation for housing or utilities aid, and ask for a concrete point of contact. Treat the on-site staff as navigators who can point to referrals, voucher programs, and food resources, but supplement with 211 or other local services for housing and addiction support when rapid, curated assistance is the goal. In short, Dean House delivers meaningful, people-centered relief; it just requires a plan to navigate its operational ebbs and flows.
In the end, Dean House stands out as a proven lifeline for basic needs and compassionate, human-centered support amid tougher economic times. It is less ideal for someone who prioritizes flawless scheduling, rapid intake, and consistently prompt responses across all service lines. For families weighing options, the calculus is clear: lean on the warmth, meals, and practical aid that Dean House offers, but pair it with additional resources to shore up areas where access or consistency may falter. When the objective is steady nourishment and grounded, respectful assistance, this center remains a sound, actionable choice - with the caveat that expectations about access and timing should be managed.
4 resident community capacity
Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.
Bangor International (3 miles away)
24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones. Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life. Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life. Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications. Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults. Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.Dean House in Bangor, ME is a fully furnished assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to meet the needs of its residents. The community features a beautiful dining room where delicious meals are served, taking into account any special dietary restrictions.
Residents can enjoy spending time outdoors in the garden or other outdoor spaces, and stay connected with family and friends through telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access. Housekeeping services ensure that the community remains clean and well-maintained at all times.
The care services provided at Dean House include assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Residents can also receive coordination with health care providers and medication management to ensure their health needs are met. Diabetes diets are available for those who require it, and meal preparation and service are provided for all residents.
Transportation arrangement for medical appointments is offered, ensuring that residents can easily access necessary healthcare services. Additionally, there are nearby cafés, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals for residents to explore.
Residents can participate in scheduled daily activities to keep themselves engaged and entertained. Whether it's socializing with fellow residents or enjoying local attractions nearby, Dean House provides a vibrant and supportive community for seniors seeking assisted living in Bangor, ME.
Dean House is located at 272 Essex Street, Bangor, ME 04401 in Penobscot County, Maine
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