Bridges by Epoch at Andover

Pros

• The staff at Bridges by EPOCH at Andover is consistently described as excellent, caring, and attentive, making residents feel safe and valued.
• The facility itself is beautifully designed, clean, and secure, providing a pleasant atmosphere for both residents and families.
• Residents enjoy a variety of engaging activities and outings that promote socialization and well-being.
• The communication between staff and families is commendable, with regular updates and efforts to involve family members in the care process.
• The food quality has received positive feedback from residents, contributing to a satisfying dining experience.
• Families express gratitude for the support and resources provided by the facility, enhancing their understanding of dementia care.
• Overall experiences shared by families are overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending Bridges by EPOCH to others seeking memory care options.

Cons

• There needs to be better communication between departments, as signals have gotten crossed/miscommunicated several times.
• Although the food was good initially, it declined after they lost the chef.
• Some residents experienced falling issues that could be mitigated with more staff support.
• The need for additional private aides was mentioned due to difficult behaviors that were hard to manage.
• While the facility is overall positive, there are concerns about potential falls and safety for residents.
• Despite the excellent care provided, there may still be gaps in handling certain resident behaviors without additional assistance.

Review

Bridges by EPOCH at Andover has garnered considerable praise from families for its exceptional memory care services. A recurring theme throughout the reviews is the dedication and professionalism of the staff, who are characterized as caring, attentive, and always in good spirits. This positive atmosphere is crucial for residents, particularly those dealing with memory issues or dementia. Many reviewers emphasized that the staff’s encouragement helps residents engage in activities, fostering a sense of community and belonging that can significantly improve their quality of life.

The physical layout of Bridges by EPOCH stands out as another highlight in the reviews. The facility is beautifully designed and well-maintained, featuring spacious living areas that don't resemble a typical institutional setting. Residents can enjoy a lovely courtyard with raised flowerbeds and vegetable gardens that offer both beauty and opportunities for interaction with nature. Cleanliness is a top priority here, with many reviewers noting an absence of unpleasant odors typically associated with elder care facilities. This attention to hygiene extends beyond indoor spaces; outdoor furniture and walkways are also meticulously kept.

Food quality has been another point of contention among some family members. While initial impressions were overwhelmingly positive about the menu options—many describing it as delicious—the experience changed following a chef's departure, leading to concerns about consistency in meal preparation. However, many other family members reported satisfaction with the meals served to residents prior to this change; several noted their loved ones enjoying meals alongside fellow residents in a vibrant cafeteria setting filled with natural light.

Communication between staff and families received commendations for being proactive and informative, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic when consistent updates became vital. Staff made an effort to reach out regularly through pictures, emails, and notifications concerning health conditions within the facility—a practice that not only reassured families but also demonstrated their commitment to transparency. Even when challenges arose with difficult behaviors in some residents, staff worked collaboratively with families, going above and beyond to provide solutions such as arranging private aides to ensure proper care.

Many families conveyed gratitude for having found a place where their loved ones felt safe and secure while receiving tailored support for their specific needs related to Alzheimer’s disease and similar ailments. One reviewer expressed how relieved they were knowing their mother was thriving socially despite her condition—highlighting frequently scheduled activities such as crafts, sing-alongs, movie nights, field trips—all aimed at providing cognitive stimulation while promoting socialization among residents.

Additionally, Bridges by EPOCH offers workshops and support groups open to the public relating to dementia care techniques—an initiative many have found invaluable in supporting their own family dynamics outside of the facility environment. This outreach reflects their broader commitment not just to immediate residents but also to caregivers looking for guidance on navigating complex emotional terrains related to dementia diagnoses. Overall feedback suggests that those involved feel empowered by what they learn from Bridges’ programs—a sentiment echoed by reviewers who have advocated for others seeking memory care solutions for their loved ones.

In conclusion, Bridges by EPOCH at Andover appears dedicated not only to high-quality memory care services but also fosters an inclusive environment rich in supportive resources benefitting families navigating dementia caregiving challenges alongside external community efforts aimed at educating individuals about effectively managing these conditions over time. For all these reasons combined—the professional staff ensuring individual reach-outs coupled beautifully structured facilities—the feedback overwhelmingly indicates that this establishment presents itself as one deserving strong recommendations from those who've had firsthand experiences there.

This section of Andover, Massachusetts, offers a convenient location with easy access to essential amenities for senior living. Within a short distance, there are multiple pharmacies such as CVS and Walgreens, providing easy access to medications and healthcare needs. A variety of dining options are also available including Shawsheen Luncheonette and Burtons Grill for enjoyable meals. For leisure activities, there are cafes like Starbucks and Panera Bread nearby as well as parks such as Ward Reservation for outdoor relaxation. In terms of healthcare, Tewksbury Hospital and Lawrence General Hospital are in close proximity along with various physician offices providing medical services. Additionally, transportation options like Lawrence Municipal Airport and Ballardvale Mbta Station offer accessibility for travel needs. Overall, this area provides a well-rounded environment with amenities to support a comfortable senior lifestyle.

Pharmacies

• CVS Pharmacy (1.8 miles)
• Walgreens (2.7 miles)
• Demoulas Super Markets (2.8 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (2.8 miles)
• Walgreens (2.9 miles)
• Packard Pharmacy (3.2 miles)
• CVS Pharmacy (3.9 miles)

Restaurants

• Shawsheen Luncheonette (1.8 miles)
• Burtons Grill (2.7 miles)
• McDonald's (2.8 miles)
• Cracker Barrel (3.2 miles)
• Cows Rock Ice Cream (3.8 miles)
• Jay Gee's Ice Cream & Fun Center (4 miles)
• Jaime's Restaurant (4.2 miles)

Cafes

• Starbucks (2.8 miles)
• Panera Bread (2.9 miles)
• Starbucks (3.1 miles)
• Aroma Joe's (3.5 miles)
• Heav'nly Donuts (4.2 miles)
• Perfecto's Caffe (4.5 miles)
• Heav'nly Donuts (4.6 miles)

Parks

• Ward Reservation (3.1 miles)

Hospitals

• Tewksbury Hospital (3.8 miles)
• Lawrence General Hospital (4.2 miles)
• Whittier Rehabilitation Hospital (8.1 miles)

Physicians

• Dr Josef And Dr Michael Gendlerman's Office (3.9 miles)
• SMG New England Cardiology of Lawrence (4 miles)
• Dana Farber Cancer Institute (4.3 miles)
• Northeast Urologic Surgery PC (4.4 miles)
• Pleasant Valley Internists PC (5.1 miles)
• Massachusetts Eye Associates (5.2 miles)
• Vascular and Vein Associates (6.9 miles)

Places of Worship

• La Iglesia De Jesucristo De Los Santos De Los Últimos Días (4.6 miles)

Transportation

• Lawrence Municipal Airport (LWM) (4.9 miles)
• Ballardvale Mbta Station (7.3 miles)

Theaters

• 2660 Amc Bar Methuen 2 (6.4 miles)