Overall sentiment across these reviews is strongly positive, with frequent praise for the social environment, staff, amenities, dining and activity programming. Many reviewers describe Encore Village of Schaumburg as a warm, family-like community that fosters friendships and provides a very active lifestyle. Long-term residents and recent movers repeatedly highlight the abundance and variety of activities—ranging from bridge and model railroading to line dancing, crafts, choir, simulator golf, fishing trips and educational courses from local institutions. Resident-founded groups and advisory committees contribute to a resident-driven calendar, and reviewers commonly note that there are so many events it can be hard to choose which to attend. The campus supports a broad spectrum of recreational and learning opportunities, including lifelong learning, spiritual and discussion groups, concerts, and regular outings via complimentary bus service.
Care quality and on-site medical services receive consistent positive marks. Multiple reviewers cite on-site physical therapy, expert therapists, in-house doctors, and 24/7 resident assistance as strong points. Several specific rehabilitation outcomes were mentioned (e.g., measurable improvements in mobility), and many residents emphasize the reassurance of immediate help when needed. That said, there are some reported gaps in higher-acuity assisted living care; a few reviewers felt the assisted living portion could not meet elevated care needs and suggested it needs refurbishment or more attention. While the majority praise the staff as kind, attentive and reliable, a minority reported instances where staff seemed unfocused or unable to answer simple questions, and some expressed concern about a lack of individualized one-on-one attention—an issue that can be more pronounced in a large campus setting.
Facilities and campus amenities are repeatedly described as resort-like and well maintained in many areas: reviewers praise beautiful grounds with walking paths, a large heated indoor pool, a well-equipped fitness center, several comfortable common areas (fireplaces, lounges), updated apartments in portions of the community and extensive dining venues. Dining is a standout feature for many—three to four restaurants and a lounge with rotating menus, many menu items, and freshly prepared food are cited as major positives. Some reviewers singled out the food as delicious and varied, while a few cautioned that non-restaurant food options may be less appealing, saying the food was "terrible unless you eat at the restaurants." Housekeeping and maintenance conveniences (no laundry/cleaning responsibilities for residents) are appreciated by many, contributing to the "carefree" lifestyle several reviewers mention.
Management and recent organizational changes are an important theme. Several reviews discuss the community’s experience during COVID-19: there were relatively few cases but one reported fatality, and quarantine/isolation measures required meal delivery and caused financial and emotional strain for some residents and the original facility. The transition to new ownership/management under Encore Village is noted positively; reviewers report improvements in meals, activities and new features introduced by the owners while retaining the community’s best qualities. However, there are also concerns related to financial and contractual issues: a few reviewers reported long waits for entrance fee refunds and alleged contract misrepresentation, with recommendations to seek legal advice in those cases. These finance-related complaints are not the majority but are significant and recurring enough to be a notable caution for prospective residents.
Size and fit are recurring practical considerations. Several reviewers love the campus and all it offers, while others find the facility too large, impersonal or intimidating at first and describe a big-campus feel that requires time to find routines and preferred spots. A handful of reviewers found apartments small or overpriced, or the assisted living section in need of TLC. Other operational concerns—such as reports of laundry items disappearing—appear infrequently but are serious when they occur. Overall, the balance of reviews leans heavily toward satisfaction: residents frequently say they "love it here," call it the "best decision," and recommend Encore Village for active seniors seeking robust programming, strong social opportunities, good medical and therapy access, multiple dining options, and resort-style amenities. Prospective residents should weigh the clear strengths in activities, dining and care access against potential issues around assisted living capabilities, the large campus scale, and any contract/financial concerns raised by a minority of reviewers.
