1 Dumbarton Drive, Lakewood, NJ 08701
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
Residents find the community very peaceful. The community is nice and well-kept for its age. Grounds are kept in excellent condition considering the age of the community. The amenities include a large saltwater pool, a 9-hole golf course, a small lake with paddle boats, and numerous clubs and trips. HOA fees are reasonable. The gated entrance is a plus and enhances security. It is a quiet, wooded 55+ community with competent and friendly security at the main entrance.
The reviewer notes that removing the night gate guard means the community is no longer a 24/7 gated community, increasing safety concerns. The reviewer claims HOA fees have increased year after year despite budget cuts, with no relief for residents. The reviewer describes maintenance as a joke, noting grass is mowed to look like hay with holes, and there is little to no reseeding. The reviewer states that amenities are not included and all access costs extra, including guest passes. The reviewer observes water bills are a flat rate with no meter readings, making residents pay a higher, set amount. The reviewer says pool rules are a joke, with strict restrictions like no sitting on the edge and only foam noodles allowed. The reviewer warns that dues behind more than 60 days can trigger foreclosure, and casts the community as HUD-based with many fixed-income residents at risk. The reviewer accuses the HOA of overzealous enforcement of minor infractions, selective rule enforcement, and new by-laws that enable property foreclosure, while spending on unnecessary groundskeeping equipment.Leisure Village East is best suited for 55-plus residents who value a secure, social, club-rich environment and are prepared to live within a tightly governed, fee-heavy community. The combination of a gated entrance, well-kept grounds, and an active calendar of clubs and excursions appeals to those who want companionship and predictable security in a single-story, low-maintenance setting. The appeal is strongest for buyers who accept ongoing HOA oversight as a feature, not a bug - who will trade some personal flexibility for organized activities, shared amenities, and the peace of mind that comes with a guarded entry and a landscape kept up by the association.
That said, serious consideration should be given to those who require predictable costs, transparent governance, and minimal risk of sudden financial shocks. Prospective purchasers with fixed incomes or tight budgets may want to compare alternatives carefully, as several reviews flag rising HOA fees, annual by-law changes, and aggressive debt collection language. If the budget depends on stability rather than occasional assessment spikes, or if there is discomfort with the idea that the HOA can foreclose if dues lapse, alternatives deserve examination. Similarly, buyers who prize a relaxed, less rules-driven environment or who dislike the perception of selective rule enforcement may want to look elsewhere.
The strongest positives are tangible and recurring. The grounds are routinely described as well maintained for a vintage Lakewood neighborhood, and the community's physical footprint - an emphasis on single-level homes, a sizable saltwater pool, a nine-hole golf course, and a small lake with paddle boats - provides an active, resort-like vibe within a clearly delineated age cohort. A front-loaded security presence at the gate contributes to a sense of safety that many residents value, and the array of clubs and organized outings creates opportunities for social engagement without leaving the property. For households that want a turnkey exterior maintenance package, the HOA covers roofs, gutters, siding, lawn care, sprinklers, and more, reducing the burden of upkeep.
Yet the trade-offs are meaningful and cannot be ignored. Several reviews highlight ongoing fee increases, by-law revisions every year, and substantial nonessential charges for access to amenities or for guest visits, which collectively can strain budgets. There is also a recurring caution about enforcement intensity: complaints about selective rule enforcement, the potential for foreclosure acceleration if dues fall behind, and the perception that some residents - especially those on fixed incomes - are not protected as they expect. Reports of rude gate staff or aloof front-desk interactions add a reminder that the experience is as much about daily operations as it is about the physical setting. The combination of "amenities" that are not truly included and the occasional tension between residents and management makes the experience uneven.
Practical due diligence matters. Prospective buyers should scrutinize the by-laws and spend time with current residents to understand what is enforced, what costs are truly included, and how sensitive the HOA is to budget pressures. Verify what the HOA covers directly versus what remains a homeowner responsibility, confirm the status of the gated entrance, and quantify the true monthly or quarterly cost beyond advertised figures. If considering a purchase, ask hard questions about rental restrictions, the ability to plan for future assessments, and the process for dispute resolution. The reviews urge a careful reading of the enforcement framework and a clear-eyed view of long-term cost exposure.
In the end, Leisure Village East delivers a discreet, secure, and socially active environment that can shine for the right household. The combination of security, well-kept common areas, club opportunities, and maintenance-included exterior care makes it attractive for residents who value structure and camaraderie over total cost transparency and flexible living rules. For those whose priority is cost predictability, minimal governance, or a more laissez-faire atmosphere, alternatives - whether within other Leisure Village campuses or in non-HOA senior neighborhoods - offer compelling contrasts. The bottom-line choice hinges on tolerance for ongoing fee growth and rule rigidity versus the desire for a vibrant, safety-forward 55+ lifestyle with extensive social programming.
6 resident community capacity
Active Adult Communities (55+)Active Adult Communities provide seniors with opportunities for socialization, activities, and wellness programs tailored to their needs. These communities offer a sense of belonging and security while promoting an active and independent lifestyle for those aged 55 and older.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.Leisure Village East in Lakewood, NJ is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. With the inclusion of telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, residents are able to stay connected with loved ones and enjoy various forms of entertainment.
The community also provides care services such as meal preparation and service, ensuring that residents receive delicious and nutritious meals tailored to their dietary needs. Additionally, medication management is available to assist residents in taking their medications correctly and on time.
Located in a convenient area, Leisure Village East has several amenities within close proximity. Residents can enjoy a cup of coffee or meet friends at one of the cafes nearby. For those who enjoy nature, there are two parks nearby where they can take leisurely walks or engage in outdoor activities. The community is also surrounded by multiple pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals which provide easy access to essential services and entertainment options.
Overall, Leisure Village East in Lakewood, NJ offers a comfortable living environment with a variety of amenities and care services that cater to the unique needs of each resident.
Leisure Village East is located at 1 Dumbarton Drive, Lakewood, NJ 08701 in Ocean County, New Jersey
Complete Care at Shorrock Gardens
Brick, NJ
Memory-care focused with medication/incontinence support, engaging activities, and restaurant-style dining.
Lions Head North
Brick, NJ
Intimate 6-resident setting with personalized care (meal prep, medication management, dressing assistance) and access to nearby shops, healthcare, and services.
Four Seasons at Lakewood
Lakewood, NJ
Comprehensive amenities and services with convenient access to pharmacies, physicians, hospitals, and local amenities.
Lions Head Woods
Lakewood, NJ
Small, personalized care with tailored meals and medication management.
Lions Head South
Brick, NJ
Small, intimate assisted living with personalized care and essential amenities.
CareMinders Home Care
Brick, NJ
Exceptional care quality from professional staff.
Leisure Park
Lakewood, NJ
Renovated, friendly staff, and active social life.
Seaview Village
Brick, NJ
Small, intimate community with personalized care and convenient access to nearby amenities.
Harrogate a CCRC
Lakewood, NJ
Warm, home-like atmosphere with caring staff, engaging activities, and quality dining.
Senior Move Management: Understanding the Role, Value, and Associated Costs
Senior move management provides specialized support for older adults relocating by assisting with logistics, emotional challenges, and downsizing decisions to ensure a smooth transition to new living environments. These services address the unique needs of seniors and have become increasingly important as baby boomers retire and seek to downsize.
Weight Training for Seniors: Building Strength and Vitality
Weight training is vital for seniors to maintain muscle mass, bone density, and overall health, combating age-related declines through customized resistance exercises that enhance balance and well-being. Safe routines should start with realistic goals and proper form, while emphasizing gradual progress and consultations with healthcare providers to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Understanding the Sandwich Generation: Stress and Responsibilities for Multigenerational Caregivers
The Sandwich Generation comprises adults managing the dual responsibilities of caring for aging parents and raising children, leading to significant emotional, logistical, and financial challenges. This situation is exacerbated by longer life expectancies and cultural expectations, necessitating effective coping strategies and support resources to alleviate caregiver stress and burnout.
