BillEsther Danielson
May 2026
My wife and I moved to Stroudwater fourteen months ago, at age 85 and 83, after I lost my lower leg due to cancer. My sudden disability made it impossible to remain in our home.<br>We chose Stroudwater Lodge under the guidance of our granddaughter, an M.D. in family medicine. She investigated a number of local places, and Stroudwater topped her list. After visiting here we quickly agreed. We were very positively impressed by the attractive, “lodge-like” exterior, the friendly staff and residents, and the attractive common spaces and apartments.<br>Our experience since moving in has completely lived up to our first impressions. The staff is upbeat and quick to respond to our needs. Evidence of their spirit is the frequent laughter we hear amongst the serving staff at mealtimes! Residents clearly have bonded with each other in many ways, from travelling together on Lodge-sponsored trips to participating in a full daily schedule of activities, to assisting each other with wheelchairs, walkers, or dropped items. Truly, the sense of community is palpable.<br>A few other details:<br>- I love the wide, paved path that surrounds the building, easily managed by wheelchair. My wife loves the paths that extend beyond Stroudwater, part of the Portland Trails system, that allow her to walk miles each day, largely in natural surroundings.<br>- The food is quite impressive! Lobster has been a menu option twice this week. Some entrees are novel, and there are always several other choices like burgers, BLTs, mac and cheese, etc., if you’re not feeling adventurous. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and/or vegetarian dishes are offered most meals.<br>- Happy Hour, from 4-5 pm Tuesdays and Thursdays, is a nice chance to socialize.<br>- The “Men’s Group” meets bi-weekly to discuss issues like men’s health, menu options and popular books, and to take trips to local museums, etc.<br>- The “Climate Group” meets periodically to explore environmental and climate change issues.<br>Currently we are encouraging my wife’s elderly brother to join us here, a clear sign of our satisfaction with Stroudwater. Overall, we give Stroudwater Lodge an “A”.
