Lodge of Northbrook

Pros

• The residents at The Lodge experienced challenges due to the aging building and staff turnover, but they appreciated the support from dedicated employees.
• A neighbor's recommendation led to a positive experience at the Lodge of Northbrook, where residents found a beautiful, brand new facility.
• The general atmosphere in the new building is friendly and casual, contributing to a welcoming community for the residents.
• Residents enjoy stunning views from their apartments, with scenic landscapes featuring hills and a fast-running river.
• Engaging activities and committees foster a sense of community and involvement among the residents, enhancing their overall experience.

Cons

• The original building at The Lodge is starting to show its age.
• Many loyal and dedicated staff members left in 2022.
• Most residents do not have their meals in the dining room.
• Food service is not available on the weekends.

Review

The experience of transitioning to a senior living facility can significantly impact the quality of life for both residents and their families. In this context, two contrasting reviews highlight the varying standards encountered in such communities. One review recalls a difficult chapter at The Lodge, where a loved one spent the last 2.5 years of her life. This particular establishment is described as showing signs of age, which has been exacerbated by the departure of many loyal and dedicated staff members in 2022. Consequently, this has led to an atmosphere that may not be conducive to comfort or well-being for its residents.

Residents at The Lodge often found themselves disconnected from communal experiences, notably with meal arrangements. Most chose not to dine in the dining room, indicating a lack of engagement or perhaps dissatisfaction with the food service offered. Additionally, the review points out that food services are not available on weekends, which can create challenges for residents who rely on these services for their daily nutrition and social interactions. This lack of availability over crucial weekend periods could lead to feelings of isolation and frustration for those living there.

In stark contrast, another review shines a positive light on the Lodge of Northbrook—a newer facility that represents a fresh start for its residents. Since moving in August, individuals have expressed their satisfaction with both the physical environment and overall atmosphere. Described as “brand new,” this community offers modern amenities that contribute to a comfortable living experience while providing opportunities for socialization and engagement among residents. Such an environment is particularly important when considering how vital it is for seniors to maintain connections with others during their later years.

The beautiful location further enhances the appeal of Lodge of Northbrook; it boasts picturesque views that include hills and a flowing river visible from many apartments. The open space devoid of obstructing buildings provides a calming backdrop conducive to tranquility—something many residents find essential in their day-to-day lives. A friendly and casual atmosphere permeates throughout the community, allowing newcomers to feel welcomed and integrated quickly into their new home.

Moreover, active engagement within this community reflects positively on its operation—with structured activities and committees formed around them fostering camaraderie among residents. Participation in organized events encourages social interaction while contributing to overall mental well-being; these considerations are critical as emotional health plays an intricate role in determining quality of life at any stage.

Overall, these reviews present two distinctly different narratives regarding senior living communities—the challenges faced by aging facilities compared to the invigorating prospects introduced by newly developed ones like Lodge of Northbrook. The importance placed on staff retention, meal availability, engaging environments, scenic views, and supportive activities cannot be overstated; they collectively create an enriching community where seniors can thrive rather than merely exist in their later years. This highlights how vital it is for families seeking care options for loved ones to diligently evaluate facilities based on these factors before making decisions about long-term care settings.

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (0.3 miles)
• Walgreens (2.1 miles)
• Walgreens (2.2 miles)
• Walgreens (3.1 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (3.4 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (3.4 miles)
• Walgreens (3.9 miles)

Parks

• Clarkson Park (1.8 miles)
• Briarwood Park (3.3 miles)
• West Ridge Center (3.7 miles)
• South Park (4.5 miles)
• Sunset Park (5.2 miles)
• Leahy Park (7.1 miles)
• Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve (7.7 miles)

Restaurants

• Chipotle Mexican Grill (2.1 miles)
• Wildfire (2.3 miles)
• Charlie Beinlich's (2.5 miles)
• Glenview Dairy Bar (2.6 miles)
• P.F. Chang's China Bistro (2.9 miles)
• Chick-Fil-A (3.1 miles)
• McDonald's (3.3 miles)

Hospitals

• Glenbrook Hospital (2.6 miles)
• Saint Francis Hospital (8.7 miles)

Physicians

• Northwestern Memorial Physicians Group (2.8 miles)
• NorthShore Medical Group (3.2 miles)
• North Shore Physicians Group (7.4 miles)
• Stuart Bergman-Bock MD - Northshore University Health Systems (7.9 miles)
• Ferber, Stuart Nch Buffalo Grove Outpatient Care Center (8.2 miles)
• Resurrection Medical Center Professional Building (8.5 miles)
• Physicians Cosmetic Institute (8.7 miles)

Places of Worship

• Congregation Solel (3.4 miles)
• North Shore Congregation Israel (3.7 miles)
• Baha'i House of Worship (6.8 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (3.7 miles)
• Starbucks (4.3 miles)
• Starbucks (4.3 miles)
• Starbucks (4.6 miles)
• Starbucks (5.5 miles)
• Starbucks (5.6 miles)
• Starbucks (7.3 miles)

Transportation

• Metra (4.5 miles)
• Metra (5 miles)
• CTA-Linden (6.5 miles)
• Metra (8.5 miles)

Theaters

• AMC Village Crossing Theatre (7.3 miles)
• Regal Lincolnshire & Imax (8 miles)