FAQ
Here are answers to the questions we hear most frequently.
- What is senior living?
- Why choose a senior living community
- What is independent living?
- What is assisted living?
- How much does it cost to live at Birch Bay Village?
- Are cottages available for rent?
- Do you offer care for those with memory loss disorders?
- What is short-term or respite care?
- Are pets allowed?
- When is the right time to choose a senior living community?
- What type of security does Birch Bay Village have?
- Is smoking allowed at Birch Bay Village?
- Does Birch Bay Village provide transportation for residents?
What is senior living?
The main types of senior living are:
-Independent Living is a type of senior community for residents who are capable of living independently and require little assistance with daily activities. Services generally include one or two meals per day served in a common dining room, regularly schedule housekeeping and laundry services, and emergency pull cords.
-Assisted Living can be an intermediate step between independent living and a skilled nursing facility. Services generally include three daily meals, housekeeping, laundry, medication management, and personal care such as incontinence care and assistance with bathing, grooming, or dressing. Typically, residents require assistance with daily activities and mobility.
-Memory Care Facilities provide housing and services to seniors who have special needs due to memory loss, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or other cognitive disorders. The services and facilities often include those provided at assisted living communities with the addition of security, activities geared toward those with memory loss, and added levels of care needed by those with various forms of dementia.
Birch Bay Village is a senior living community that offers four different living option for our residents: Cottages (independent living) for those who wish to own their home, independent living apartment for rent at Birch Bay Inn, assisted living suites and we also provide specialized memory care services in our Safe Harbor unit.
Why choose a senior living community?
Benefits such as freedom from home maintenance and the peace of mind of having emergency assistance available around the clock, residing in a senior living community has many long-term benefits. Proper nutrition is vital at all ages, and enjoying delicious meals in the company of friends is an important way to stay energetic and strong. Many seniors living alone may suffer from malnutrition or dehydration, which can negatively impact health.
Keeping an active mind has many social and physical benefits. Interaction with others is an important aspect of being happy and well adjusted. Having companions and transportation can help seniors avoid becoming isolated or suffering from loneliness. Physical activity is important in maintaining mobility and improving overall health and emotional well-being. Most senior communities have exercise and activity programs that contribute to good health.
Loneliness and risk factors that impact health and well-being do not need to be a part of your life. Our goal here at Birch Bay Village is to help you find a balanced solution that meets both your immediate and long-term needs. Our friendly and professional staff will help you fell at home, and your new neighbors will quickly become good friends.
What is independent living?
Residents of our cottages and independent apartments enjoy and active lifestyle with services and amenities that are not available with other housing options. These benefits allow Birch Bay Village resident to maintain their independence and enjoy a healthy and safe way of life. They have 24-hour emergency assistance and many other services. Our community fosters a sense of well-being and belonging within Birch Bay Village and within the greater community of Bar Harbor.
What is assisted living?
Assisted living is a lifestyle option that allows seniors to maintain independence while still providing many basic services necessary for a healthy and safe way of life. At Birch Bay Village, we define assisted living according to the needs and circumstances of each individual. We provide a long list of services that range from meals and light housekeeping to laundry and personal assistance. Each care plan is customized to meet the needs of the individual's personal needs. Every apartment is equipped with an emergency response system and all residents have 24-hour access to our staff.
How much does it cost to live at Birch Bay Village?
Birch Bay Village offers four different lifestyle options - cottage ownership, independent living apartments, assisted living suites, and memory loss. The price for each option varies according to size, features, and services included. Please contact Susi Pearson to arrange a personal consultation to learn about pricing and the right option for you.
Are cottages available for rent?
Cottages at Birch Bay Village offer a very desirable way for our residents to own their own home and enjoy the benefits that our community offers, without all the hassles of home ownership such as shoveling snow, mowing the lawn and exterior maintenance. From time to time, cottages may also be available for rent. Please contact us to inquire about cottage availability.
Do you offer care for those with memory loss disorders?
What is short-term or respite care?
Birch Bay Village offers temporary housing for seniors who need assistance in order to maintain their independence. These services can be an excellent short-term option for those who have had a recent surgery, hospitalization or for caregivers who are going out of town or need additional assistance. Meals and personal care services are provided and guests are encouraged to participate in our many activities and social events.
Are pets allowed?
Small pets - dogs, cats and birds are welcome at Birch Bay Village. Residents must be appropriately responsible for the care and hygiene of their pets.
Click here to read our Pet Policy.
When is the right time to choose a senior living community?
Planning ahead and moving to a senior community allows you to take advantage of the benefits that can help extend your independence, improve your outlook and health and allow you to maintain control over your life. Some individuals choose to move to a senior community that offers a wide range of options. They do this before services are needed, when they have energy, freedom and control over their circumstances. Later, if they need additional assistance, those services are available right at home, where friends are near and activities can continue.
What type of security does Birch Bay Village have?
In order to provide a safe and secure environment for all our residents, Birch Bay Village has an array of safety features that include exterior doors that are locked throughout the night, after-hours personal emergency call system, fire sprinkler system throughout Birch Bay Inn, heat and smoke detectors in every apartment and each apartment is individually keyed for privacy and security.
Is smoking allowed at Birch Bay Village?
Birch Bay Inn is a smoke-free building. Neither residents nor employees are permitted to smoke in the Inn or on campus grounds. Cottage residents may smoke inside their cottages.
Does Birch Bay Village provide transportation for residents?
Birch Bay Village has its own van for small groups going out on scheduled shopping trips, running errands and special outings.