5 Crocker Street, Howland, ME 04448
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
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The visitor's friend was welcomed with heartfelt hospitality upon entering the facility. She is in good hands and will receive the care she deserves. Julie Murphy and the staff are thanked for making this possible and for their dedication. The care described is wonderful. The staff are fabulous to residents and treat them with dignity and respect. The food service is great and accommodates residents' preferences. The atmosphere is homey and sweet, with a welcoming living room and dining area. Several staff members have been there for years and clearly enjoy helping the residents.
She did not receive good care. When help was needed, nothing was done. The staff is undertrained and mostly on phones. The visiting area is very dirty. The staff's personal conversations are inappropriate. The administration lacks close supervision and makes decisions that are not always what is wanted.Cummings Health Care Facility in Howland is best suited for families seeking a small, homey assisted living setting where daily life is grounded in personal relationships, warmth, and meal service more than hospital-grade rigor. The community tends to favor continuity and familiarity, with a living room and dining room that create a domestic atmosphere rather than a clinical one. It works for residents who value dignity, respectful interactions, and a staff culture that feels like there are people who know the resident by name and history. For families prioritizing a personal touch and a comfortable, neighborly vibe, this facility offers a compelling fit.
The strongest positives center on human warmth and consistency. Families highlight staff who treat residents with dignity and speak to them with care, often noting that several team members have been there for years. The caregiving approach is described as tender and patient, with staff who remember preferences and can accommodate individual tastes in meals. Food service earns consistent praise, with residents offered alternatives and meals shaped to individual liking. The setting itself reinforces the positive feeling: a homey environment where visitors are welcomed and residents feel at ease, supported by long-tenured personnel who know their way around both routines and quirks. For relatives who want to see real, ongoing relationships form between staff and residents, the facility delivers.
However, multiple red flags appear in the collective experiences. One reviewed situation recounts inadequate responses to health needs, with claims that help was not provided promptly and that staff were distracted, allegedly focused on phones rather than residents. A dirty visiting area and conversations that felt unprofessional add to concerns about day-to-day conditions and the quality of oversight. The most pointed critique centers on administration: even when family members are involved, decisions are sometimes made without close alignment to what families want, suggesting governance gaps that undermine trust and continuity. Taken together, these concerns suggest that behind the warmth there are operational weaknesses that can erode confidence when a resident's needs intensify.
Those pros and cons must be weighed against each other in concrete terms. The intangible benefits - dignity, respect, a familiar staff presence, and dependable food - can significantly offset a comfortable, low-stress daily experience for residents who do not require high-intensity medical intervention. In practice, though, the gaps in responsiveness and the apparent administrative disconnect can become decisive factors when medical issues arise or when families demand prompt, clear communication and decisive action. For residents who thrive on routine and steady, affectionate interactions, this balance can tip toward acceptance; for anyone who anticipates frequent changes in health status or a need for rapid problem-solving, the cons may outweigh the positives.
Who should consider alternatives? Families that prioritize consistently proactive medical oversight, rigorous staffing discipline, and transparent, family-centered governance will likely find other options more reliable. Facilities with stronger supervision structures, documented response times, and cleaner, more professional common areas may provide greater peace of mind for those managing complex care needs or who require frequent adjustments to care plans. In addition, if a modern, more clinical environment with robust administration is non-negotiable, exploring similar-sized or larger communities with a track record of strong governance could reduce the risk of misalignment between resident needs and administrative decisions.
For families that proceed here, a practical decision guide is essential. Schedule a face-to-face with the administrator to understand staffing patterns, response protocols, and how families are kept informed about care decisions. Observe meal times and the dining area to corroborate the positive reports about food and atmosphere. Request candid conversations with several staff members across shifts to gauge consistency and attentiveness, and seek out current residents or family members to share unedited experiences about responsiveness and supervision. Review any incident or complaint records and ask how issues are resolved and communicated. In sum, this community offers a hopeful, human-centered environment where warmth can be the defining feature, but that strength depends on stronger operational discipline and governance. For the right family, it's a viable option; for others, it warrants careful comparison with alternatives that promise steadier oversight and quicker, clearer accountability.
20 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.
Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support in their golden years.
Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.
Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
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.
KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
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.
24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities. 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.
Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
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.Cummings Health Care Facility in Howland, ME is an assisted living community that provides both board and care home services as well as skilled nursing facility care. Our facility offers a range of amenities to ensure the comfort and convenience of our residents. With cable or satellite TV, dining room, fully furnished rooms, garden, housekeeping services, kitchenette, move-in coordination assistance, outdoor space, telephone, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access, residents can enjoy a comfortable and connected living environment.
Our dedicated staff provides comprehensive care services to meet the needs of each resident. We offer 24-hour supervision to ensure the safety and well-being of our residents. Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and transfers is provided to maintain independence and personal hygiene. We also coordinate with health care providers to address any medical needs and provide medication management support. Our mental wellness program aims to promote emotional well-being among our residents.
At Cummings Health Care Facility, we understand the importance of proper nutrition. We offer special dietary restrictions catering to individual needs while ensuring delicious and nutritious meal preparation and service. Transportation arrangement for medical purposes as well as transportation to doctors' appointments is also available for the convenience of our residents.
We believe in creating a vibrant community that fosters social engagement and personal fulfillment. Scheduled daily activities provide opportunities for socialization and entertainment. Additionally, there are five restaurants nearby where residents can explore diverse culinary experiences. For those seeking spiritual fulfillment, there are also five places of worship conveniently located close by.
Overall, Cummings Health Care Facility is a welcoming assisted living community that prioritizes the physical well-being, emotional wellness, and social engagement of its residents.
Cummings Health Care Facility is located at 5 Crocker Street, Howland, ME 04448 in Piscataquis County, Maine
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