Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program in Bar Harbor, ME
Save25 Village Inn Road, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program offers a distinctive pricing structure for its accommodations, reflecting the specialized care and services provided within Hancock County, Maine. For a one-bedroom unit, the monthly cost is set at $4,200, which is notably higher than the county average of $3,742 but slightly lower than the state average of $4,572. In the case of two-bedroom units, residents will find a monthly rate of $5,500 - again above the local county average of $4,575 and close to the statewide figure of $4,852. The program's studio option stands out significantly with a monthly charge of $10,000; this price point surpasses both county and state averages by a considerable margin (Hancock County: $7,686; Maine: $4,889). These costs reflect not just accommodation but also the dedicated therapeutic services that are integral to the offerings at the program.
| Floor plans | Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program | Hancock County | Maine |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $4,200 | $3,742 | $4,572 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $5,500 | $4,575 | $4,852 |
| Studio | $10,000 | $7,686 | $4,889 |
Birch Bay Retirement Village is best suited for families who want a scenic, full-spectrum senior community on Mount Desert Island with real depth in care options. The campus combines independent living, assisted living (Pleasant Cove), and memory care (Safe Harbor) in a single, walkable setting, with easy access to Bar Harbor services and the Acadia area. It works particularly well for residents who value a warm, community-oriented atmosphere, regular programming - music therapy, arts, outings, and group activities - and the reassurance that a dedicated care team can shift with changing needs without uprooting the resident. The setting itself - a hillside campus overlooking the bay with well-maintained grounds and a strong routine - creates a sense of belonging that many families prize.
Those who should consider alternatives are typically guided by cost and expectations around staffing consistency, menu quality, or a more self-contained lifestyle. The daily rate can be steep, with repeated anecdotes noting roughly $390-$400 per day and additional expectations that residents furnish many personal items. Some reviews describe meals and dining logistics in ways that don't meet every family's standard, especially in the assisted living wing. Staff turnover and shortages surface as a recurring concern, sometimes translating to slower responses, re-education of new aides, and a sense that no single staff presence can be counted on for every shift. For families prioritizing a more independent, lower-cost, or less "hospital-like" environment, the community may feel price-prohibitive and the experience uneven.
The strongest positives center on the care culture and the quality of programming. Staff are repeatedly described as compassionate, professional, and genuinely attentive, with families reporting that care teams treat residents with dignity and kindness. The Safe Harbor Memory Care program stands out as a meaningful resource for dementia care, supported by trained clinicians and a philosophy that emphasizes safety, comfort, and familiar routines. The campus' proximity to Acadia and Bar Harbor, alongside ongoing activities such as music therapy, walking paths, and social events, helps residents stay engaged and emotionally connected. Maintenance and campus upkeep also receive consistent praise, reinforcing a sense of stability and pride in the living environment.
Yet the cons aren't trivial and must be weighed against the positives. Staffing gaps and turnover are the most persistent drumbeat in reviews, affecting response times, the continuity of care, and the ability to deliver on every family note or preference. In some wings, dining quality and consistency appear to vary, and there is recurring commentary about the cost structure - what's included, what's billed separately, and the burden of supplying personal items - which can erode perceived value even when the care staff deliver well. A few residents describe a hospital-like ambiance and administrative friction, including critiques of executive leadership that color overall satisfaction. These factors don't negate excellent care, but they do tilt the balance for families sensitive to reliability, predictability, and total monthly expense.
To translate these realities into a practical decision, focus on alignment of care needs with the community's strengths. If memory impairment is part of the long-term picture or dementia risk is a concern, Safe Harbor provides a robust, specialized option that most facilities struggle to match. If a resident's current needs are more about daily support and safety, Birch Bay's attentive staff and the ability to step up care on the same campus can reduce disruption, even as costs rise. Prospective residents should probe pricing transparency, confirm what is included versus billed separately, and understand expectations around staffing coverage for evenings and weekends. Equally important is gauging whether the family can maintain engagement with a community that relies on strong staff relationships to deliver consistent, person-centered care.
In the end, Birch Bay Retirement Village delivers a compelling combination of location, care depth, and meaningful programming that can justify the investment for the right family. It is especially compelling for those who prize a beautiful, small-community feel, direct access to advanced medical resources, and a dementia-focused environment that treats residents with warmth and individualized attention. However, if cost pressure, steady staff-to-resident ratios, or a more self-directed lifestyle are non-negotiables, alternatives deserve careful comparison. The right choice hinges on balancing the premium for highly attentive, integrated care with the practical realities of budget, scheduling, and the desired degree of independence.
The Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program in Bar Harbor, ME offers a range of housing options to suit the needs of its residents. From 2-bedroom apartments to detached homes and studio apartments, individuals can choose the living arrangement that suits them best.
With a variety of care options available, including board and care home, independent living, memory care, and skilled nursing facility services, residents can receive the level of care they require.
The community boasts an array of amenities designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents. On-site activities cater to various interests, while a beautician is available for personal grooming needs. Cable or satellite TV is provided in each home, along with fully equipped kitchens and laundry facilities. The community also offers financing advice for those who need assistance.
Outdoor lovers will appreciate the availability of hiking trails and well-maintained gardens, providing opportunities to enjoy nature right on the premises. Indoor common areas offer spaces for socializing and relaxing, while a computer center ensures residents can stay connected in today's digital world.
Care services at Don And Beth Straus include assistance with daily activities such as bathing and dressing, coordination with healthcare providers, medication management, psychiatric care, diabetes care and special dietary requirements. Transportation arrangements are also made for medical appointments.
An experienced chef prepares meals using high-quality ingredients and cater to special dietary requirements including low/no sodium diets, diabetic diets or vegetarian preferences. Dining options include restaurant-style dining or room service for those who prefer privacy.
A vibrant activities program keeps residents engaged mentally and physically through arts and crafts sessions, day trips and outings, educational speakers/lifelong learning opportunities, fitness programs like yoga or Tai Chi classes, game nights including Wii bowling competitions as well as live entertainment such as dance performances or musical concerts.
The community benefits from convenient access to nearby amenities such as cafes, parks, pharmacies,and physicians’ offices ensuring that residents have easy access to necessary services. Additionally, the presence of multiple hospitals and places of worship in the vicinity provides peace of mind to residents and their families.
Overall, the Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program offers a comprehensive assisted living community with a vast array of housing options, excellent amenities, diverse care services, and engaging activities, ensuring that residents can enjoy a fulfilling and comfortable lifestyle.
This area of Bar Harbor, Maine offers a variety of amenities and services that cater to seniors looking for a comfortable and convenient living environment. With several restaurants nearby such as Bar Harbor Lobster Bakes and The Chart Room, residents can enjoy delicious meals without having to travel far. Additionally, there are hospitals like Sonogee Rehabilitation and Living Center and Mount Desert Island Hospital in close proximity for any medical needs. Parks like Acadia National Park provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Cafes like Sweet Pea's Cafe offer a cozy atmosphere to socialize with friends or enjoy a cup of coffee. Pharmacies such as Walgreens and West End Drug Co. ensure easy access to medications, while physicians' offices like Cooper-Gilmore Health Center provide quality healthcare services. For transportation needs, Hancock County - Bar Harbor Airport is conveniently located only 5.4 miles away. Overall, this part of Bar Harbor offers a well-rounded community with everything seniors may need for a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle.
The Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program offers a distinctive pricing structure for its accommodations, reflecting the specialized care and services provided within Hancock County, Maine. For a one-bedroom unit, the monthly cost is set at $4,200, which is notably higher than the county average of $3,742 but slightly lower than the state average of $4,572. In the case of two-bedroom units, residents will find a monthly rate of $5,500 - again above the local county average of $4,575 and close to the statewide figure of $4,852. The program's studio option stands out significantly with a monthly charge of $10,000; this price point surpasses both county and state averages by a considerable margin (Hancock County: $7,686; Maine: $4,889). These costs reflect not just accommodation but also the dedicated therapeutic services that are integral to the offerings at the program.
Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program offers 1-bedroom apartments, 2-bedroom apartments, Detached homes, and Studio apartments.
Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program is located at 25 Village Inn Road, Bar Harbor, ME 04609 in Hancock County, Maine
The Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program's features are meticulously designed to cater to the unique needs of residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Around-the-clock supervision ensures a safe and secure environment, minimizing the risk of wandering or accidents while fostering a sense of stability. Assistance with activities of daily living, including bathing and dressing, promotes dignity and comfort, while assistance with transfers helps maintain mobility and independence. Brain fitness activities stimulate cognitive function and engagement, which are crucial for residents' mental health. Coordination with healthcare providers ensures that medical needs are proactively managed, enhancing overall well-being. Incontinence care is handled with sensitivity to preserve dignity, and meal preparation not only addresses nutritional needs but also encourages social interaction during dining. Medication management provides peace of mind that prescriptions are followed accurately, preparing residents for their day ahead, while transportation arrangements facilitate access to essential medical appointments without added stress. Together, these services create a holistic approach to memory care that prioritizes both physical support and emotional enrichment.
Yes, Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program allows both dogs and cats.
Don And Beth Straus Therapeutic Day Program on seniors.fyi includes 11 photos including images showing interior, outdoors, dining, windows, decor, living room, fireplace, landscaping, and more.
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