Commonsense Housing - 7

739 North Main Street, Brewer, ME 04412

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.2 from 15 reviews
5 stars
9
4 stars
3
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 stars
1

Assisted Living

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    Overall Review of Commonsense Housing - 7

    Pros

    • pro They describe the staff as a caring group of people.
    • pro The facilities are nice and the staff are good.
    • pro The staff are professional and intelligent.
    • pro They wish the team the best of luck.
    • pro They would trust the facility with their family.
    • pro Common Sense Housing is a great place for loved ones to live and be cared for.
    • pro The house administrators are great to work with.
    • pro It is a very pretty place.

    Cons

    • pro The family did not have a good experience with the company, and their loved one's care and communication were consistently a struggle.
    • pro The two head administrators intimidate, threaten, and bully the staff.
    • pro Some staff members are very unmotivated and won't wipe up spilled drinks and food from the floor, creating a hazard.
    • pro Day shift staff do not clean up after themselves or the members.
    • pro The main administrators need management training and fail to show appreciation and respect to the workers.

    Review

    Experience with the care provider reveals a broad spread of impressions, ranging from disappointment and frustration to reassurance and admiration. On one hand, there are families who describe difficult experiences where their loved one's care and the way information was communicated felt like a constant challenge. For them, the difficulties in securing clear, reliable updates and a smooth care process left a lasting impression of frustration and concern. This view highlights real gaps in responsiveness and coordination that families depend on in difficult times, underscoring how essential steady, proactive communication is in a setting like this.

    Yet there is a contrasting thread of warmth and confidence threaded through many other accounts. Several reviewers speak positively about what they see on the ground: a caring group of people, nice facilities, and staff who come across as professional and intelligent. One commenter explicitly wishes the best for the team and expresses a sense of trust, saying they would feel comfortable entrusting the care of a loved one to the staff there. Another short but meaningful note simply states a willingness to trust the facility with family, signaling a strong confidence in the people who are present and the environment that has been created.

    Several voices single out Common Sense Housing as a good place for loved ones to live and be cared for, acknowledging that the staff's efforts and the overall vibe of the place are generally positive. Even within this praise, there is a caveat about the atmosphere created by administration. One reviewer notes a tension where staff feel intimidated or bullied by the two head administrators, suggesting that leadership dynamics can significantly color the daily experience of both employees and residents. Despite this, there is genuine affection for the residents and appreciation for the work of many of the team, with the message that, apart from the leadership issues, the members themselves are wonderful.

    The sentiment about staffing depth and motivation adds another layer to the assessment. There are acknowledgments that most staff are great and that the place has many dedicated people who care deeply about the residents. However, there is also frustration with some workers who appear unmotivated, with specific complaints about failing to clean up spills from the floor. The contrast between overnight and day shift performance is highlighted, with overnight staff praised for their cleanup efforts and day shift perceived as less diligent about housekeeping. This mix of strengths and shortcomings points to a facility that has solid staff playing critical roles, but where consistency and standards could be improved in some shifts and teams.

    Within the same landscape, the core team of house administrators earns high marks from those who work closely with them, described as great to work with and for. Yet the overarching critique centers on the main administrative leadership, whom some reviewers feel would benefit from management training and a clearer demonstration of appreciation for the workers who keep the business running. The call for more visible recognition and respect for frontline staff surfaces as a recurring theme, underscoring how leadership attitudes can ripple through morale and day-to-day operations. Still, the desire for fair treatment and better acknowledgment of the hard work of staff remains a strong undercurrent.

    Finally, there is a succinct but telling note about the setting itself: the place is described as a very pretty facility, a detail that frames the entire conversation with an expectation that a welcoming, well-maintained environment should support high-quality care. Taken together, the reviews sketch a picture of a community with real strengths - caring people, capable hands, and pleasant surroundings - alongside significant opportunities for improvement in communication, staffing consistency, and administrative leadership. The overarching message is one of potential: with thoughtful changes at the top and more consistent attention to housekeeping and clear information flow, the facility could better translate its appealing environment and capable staff into consistently positive experiences for residents and their families.

    Features

    Housing

    • 4 resident community capacity 4 resident community capacity

    Types of Care

    • Assisted Living 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.

    Amenities

    • Cable or satellite TV 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 room 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 furnished 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.
    • Garden 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 services 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 coordination 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 space 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.
    • Telephone 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 available 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.

    Transportation

    • Bangor International (5 miles away) Bangor International (5 miles away)

    Care Services

    • 24-hour supervision 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 assistance 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 bathing 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 dressing 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 transfers 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 providers 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 diet 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 service 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 management 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 restrictions 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 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 appointments 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.

    Dining

    • Diabetes diet 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 restrictions 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.

    Activities

    • Community-sponsored activities 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 activities 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.

    Description

    Commonsense Housing is a highly-amenitized assisted living community located in Brewer, ME. Our goal is to provide our residents with a comfortable and nurturing environment while ensuring that their daily needs are met.

    Our community offers a variety of amenities to enhance the quality of life for our residents. This includes a spacious dining room where delicious meals are served, fully furnished accommodations for convenience, beautiful gardens for outdoor relaxation, and housekeeping services to ensure cleanliness and tidiness. Additionally, residents can stay connected with loved ones through telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access.

    We understand the importance of providing personalized care services to meet the unique needs of each resident. Our dedicated staff is trained to provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also coordinate with health care providers to ensure proper care coordination. For residents with diabetes or special dietary restrictions, we offer specialized meal preparation and service to accommodate their needs.

    Transportation is essential for seniors to access medical appointments and recreational activities. At Commonsense Housing, we arrange transportation for medical appointments as well as provide transportation nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, hospitals – ensuring that our residents have easy access to everything they need.

    To promote an active and engaging lifestyle for our residents, we offer scheduled daily activities that cater to their interests and preferences. These activities aim to foster social interaction among residents and encourage physical and mental stimulation.

    Overall, Commonsense Housing provides a warm and inviting environment where seniors can thrive in their golden years. With our comprehensive amenities and personalized care services, we strive to make every resident feel comfortable, safe, and supported in their assisted living journey.

    Nearby Places of Interest

    Hospitals

    • EMMC - Grant 6 East (0.4 miles)
    • Gardner Michelle W MD - Dorothea Psychiatric Center (0.6 miles)
    • DDPC (0.6 miles)
    • Northern Light Eastern Maine (0.8 miles)
    • EMMC - Grant 6 West (0.9 miles)
    • EMMC - Outpatient Surgery Center (0.9 miles)
    • Sleep Center of Maine (1.2 miles)

    Physicians

    • Vascular Care of Maine (0.8 miles)
    • Nurse Anesthesia of Maine (0.8 miles)
    • Gurpreet Singh, MD (0.8 miles)
    • Clinical Trials - Paul A.Shapero MD (0.8 miles)
    • EMMC Gastroenterology Center of Maine (0.9 miles)
    • Surgery and Trauma Specialists at Eastern Maine Medical Center (0.9 miles)
    • Gynecology Associates of Maine (1 miles)

    Pharmacies

    • Miller Drug Pharmacy-Riverside (1 miles)
    • Miller Drug (1.4 miles)
    • Northern Light Pharmacy (1.4 miles)
    • Byard (1.4 miles)
    • Walgreens (2.1 miles)

    Restaurants

    • Eagles Nest Restaurant (1 miles)
    • Jimmie's Ice Cream & Grill (1.2 miles)
    • Oriental Jade Restaurant & Bar (1.4 miles)
    • Frank's Bake Shop & Catering (1.5 miles)
    • Denny's (1.5 miles)
    • Chipotle Mexican Grill (1.6 miles)
    • Chick-Fil-A (1.6 miles)

    Parks

    • Chapin Park (1.4 miles)
    • Brewer Off Road Park (1.8 miles)
    • Bangor Dog Park (1.8 miles)

    Theaters

    • Bangor Mall Cinemas 10 (1.4 miles)
    • Queen City Cinema Club (2 miles)

    Places of Worship

    • Clearwater Spiritualist Church (1.8 miles)
    • First United Methodist Church (1.9 miles)
    • Veazie Congregational Church (2.1 miles)

    Cafes

    • West Market Square Artisan Coffeehouse (1.9 miles)
    • Tim Hortons (2.2 miles)

    Transportation

    • Uhaul (2.1 miles)

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Commonsense Housing - 7?

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