Ben PhilipBay Square at Yarmouth Retirement Community is a warm and inviting senior living residence located in Yarmouth, Maine. Nestled near the Royal River, it combines the charm of a coastal New England inn with modern comforts and compassionate care. Operated by Benchmark Senior Living, Bay Square offers assisted living, memory care, and respite care in a supportive environment that promotes dignity, independence, and a sense of belonging. With its cozy design, engaging lifestyle, and personalized services, it provides seniors with the opportunity to live fully while enjoying peace of mind.
Bay Square at Yarmouth Retirement Community
Overview and Recognition
Bay Square at Yarmouth, operated by Benchmark Senior Living, offers a soothing, inn-like environment nestled by the Royal River, conveniently located between Freeport and Falmouth, Maine.
In 2024, it earned recognition as one of U.S. News & World Report’s Best Assisted Living Communities, especially noted in Northern Cumberland County. Residents and their families rated it highly across key areas such as value, staff quality, enrichment, safety, dining, and maintenance.
Care Services and Living Options
Assisted Living
Bay Square provides a spectrum of personalized support geared toward autonomy and comfort:
- Care levels range from Level I (cueing/reminders) to Level V (total assistance, including mechanical lifts).
- Services include assistance with daily tasks such as dressing and bathing, medication management, wellness checks, and care coordination.
Mind and Memory Care
Specialized care for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia includes:
- Secure, purpose-built neighborhoods with 24/7 trained care staff.
- Design elements such as visual cues and familiar layouts to promote comfort and cognitive engagement.
Respite Care
Short-term care options are available to offer family caregivers temporary relief, providing the same level of attentive and supportive care.
Amenities and Lifestyle Offerings
Bay Square provides a rich array of amenities and engagement offerings, promoting wellness, socialization, and creative activity.
- Dining and Chef-Prepared Meals
Seasonal, sensory-rich menus (including texture-modified options, music, and aromas) served in elegant dining settings. Private dining is available for special occasions.
- Shared Spaces and Grounds
Spacious patios with grills, fire features, landscaped gardens, raised beds, walking paths, demonstration kitchen, library, recreation rooms, club room, and computer facility.
- Concierge Services and Support
Includes housekeeping, laundry, linen, trash pickup, maintenance, and appointment scheduling.
- Transportation
Scheduled community transportation for medical appointments, errands, and outings.
- Wellness and Activities
Fitness classes, arts, music, gardening, educational programs, cooking and baking demos, structured group trips, and museum visits.
- Safety and Medical Services
Secured entrances, alert pendants, on-site nursing during the day, physical therapy, hospice as needed, visiting health professionals including dentist, podiatrist, occupational and speech therapists.
Resident and Family Feedback
Families express strong satisfaction:
- One family noted their loved one called Bay Square “home” quicker than anticipated and praised the safe, comfortable environment.
- Another appreciated the respect, compassion, and high-quality engagement even as cognitive abilities declined.
Additional community feedback highlights highly communicative staff, vibrant activities, and a family-like atmosphere. Reviewers commend efficient processes and friendly staff, though some raise concerns about cost transparency. Others credit exceptional communication tools such as apps and email updates, leadership responsiveness, interiors, and food quality.
One testimonial reads: “My mother hasn’t been this happy or engaged in a long time… Without reservation, I would highly recommend Bay Square.”
Staffing levels are also noted as exceeding regulations for aging-in-place care.
Pricing and Financial Considerations
- One-bedroom assisted living units start around \$10,495 per month, while memory care studios begin at \$9,580 per month, with variations based on layout and care required.
- Alternative sources cite a range of \$7,800 to \$9,200 per month, averaging \$8,342, comparable to Maine’s state average of \$6,986.
- Pricing may increase depending on higher care levels or extra services.
Community Atmosphere and Values
Architecturally, the community reflects a New England seaside inn with elements like a stone fireplace, garden pathways, and country-style décor.
Benchmark’s cultural foundation emphasizes being “Called to Care,” fostering human connection and tailored experiences to encourage belonging and wellbeing. Staff longevity and dedication are frequently praised by residents and families.
Summary Table
Category | Highlights |
| ——————- | ———————————————————————– |
Recognition | U.S. News Top Assisted Living (2024) |
Care Types | Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite Care |
Living Options | Studio, 1 BR, 2 BR apartments |
Amenities | Chef meals, salons, library, gardens, recreation rooms |
Services | Concierge, housekeeping, transportation, medical coordination |
Wellness Activities | Fitness, arts, cooking, music, gardening, social outings |
Safety Features | Secure access, alarm systems, on-site nurse, visiting therapists |
Cost Range | Approx. \$9,600–\$10,500/month depending on care and unit type |
Community Culture | Personalized, compassionate, family-like |
Resident Feedback | High satisfaction with care, communication, engagement, and nourishment |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is The Bay Square at Yarmouth Retirement Community?
A. Bay Square at Yarmouth is a senior living community that provides assisted living, memory care, and respite care services. It is designed for older adults who need support with daily living while maintaining independence in a safe and social environment.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. The community offers a variety of private apartments and suites, including studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom layouts. Each home is designed for comfort, accessibility, and ease of living.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. Residents can choose from studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. These homes feature comfortable layouts, safety features, and access to all community services and amenities.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. Amenities include chef-prepared meals in a restaurant-style dining room, landscaped gardens, walking paths, a library, recreation rooms, wellness and fitness spaces, private dining areas, and social lounges. Concierge services, transportation, housekeeping, and laundry are also provided.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes. Bay Square offers enrichment programs such as lectures, discussion groups, arts and crafts workshops, gardening, and cultural events. These activities encourage lifelong learning and mental stimulation for residents.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. The community is located close to medical centers and hospitals in Yarmouth and nearby Portland. On-site nursing staff and visiting healthcare professionals such as therapists, podiatrists, and dentists also provide additional support.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. Residents have easy access to local shops, grocery stores, and restaurants in Yarmouth, Freeport, and Portland. Scheduled transportation makes it convenient to explore nearby shopping centers, boutiques, and coastal dining spots.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. The surrounding area offers opportunities for nature walks, coastal excursions, and visits to parks and museums. Community outings include trips to cultural events, theaters, and local landmarks, enhancing the social and recreational experience.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Residents can participate in various committees that allow them to shape community life, such as dining feedback groups, activity planning committees, and resident councils. These groups provide a voice in decision-making and encourage a strong sense of community involvement.
Conclusion
Bay Square at Yarmouth Retirement Community provides a caring and engaging environment for seniors to thrive. With comfortable living spaces, exceptional amenities, educational and recreational opportunities, and nearby healthcare, it ensures both quality of life and peace of mind. Residents are encouraged to stay active, social, and involved, making Bay Square not just a residence but a true community.