Avita of Stroudwater

Avita of Stroudwater fills a big need in Maine: a residential community focusing on memory care.

The goal was simple:  make a positive difference in peoples’ lives by creating a special place where residents can thrive and families can have peace of mind.

Fully dedicated to residents with Alzheimer’s and related memory impairment diseases, the community features three distinct neighborhoods (spring, summer and autumn). Each secure neighborhood has its own:

• sun porch with views and access to outdoor secured patios,
• country kitchen to see and smell the food being prepared,
• living room with homelike furnishings, fireplace and tv,
• dining room with seating choices,
• activity room for games and projects,
• brain gym with computer-based exercises, and ways to stay connected.

The program also includes a salon, private dining, a café, and parlor residents can enjoy outside of their neighborhoods.

Avita’s philosophy was the inspiration for every design decision:

 “The health of our residents is important, but equally important is the quality of their social day. We have developed meaningful activities for our residents, ones that duplicate, as much as possible, the experience of one’s own home.”

The design team created a variety of social gathering areas in each neighborhood for residents to interact with each other, and with visiting family and friends. The kitchen is accessible for residents to help themselves to food, or to help bake just like they may have done in their own homes.

Thoughtfully-selected artwork is entirely  by local Maine artists, and features Maine places that may trigger fond memories.

“The day will have a flow to it that allows for rest, normal day-to-day activities such as setting the table and folding clothes, spiritual enrichment, exercise, healthy food in an enjoyable environment, and plenty of laughter and fun, all delivered in a safe, clean and supportive environment.”

This 45,000 square feet, one-story community, provides residents with a safe enviornment and visual cues that promote independence and minimize confusion.

“A resident does not lose his or her dignity, autonomy, or ability to contribute meaningfully to the community as a result of memory-related dementia.”

Resident rooms provide each resident their own personal space. Generously sized windows let in natural light, provide great views, and have extra deep sills to display personal items. Closets are enviable, and the bathroom is accessible and easily seen from the bed and the sitting chair which is a benefit to memory care residents.