Overall sentiment across reviews for Elite Lodge of Ashworth is strongly positive, with repeated praise for staff, community life, amenities and apartment options, while a smaller but notable set of concerns center on pricing transparency, dining consistency, accessibility for non-independent residents, and some exterior maintenance issues. The majority of reviewers emphasize that staff are friendly, caring and proactive—many specifically name management (GM Dirk in several comments) and describe a family-like atmosphere where staff "bend over backwards." Long-tenured employees, helpful tour guides, attentive housekeeping and an engaged activity staff contribute to a perception of resident-focused care. Multiple reviewers report that staff go above and beyond, check in after move-in, provide welcome baskets, and assist with medical or financial needs in exceptional ways.
Facilities and apartment accommodations are frequently highlighted as a strength. Reviewers describe spacious, well-laid-out floor plans (examples include a 1BR around 750 sq ft), options to customize or rebuild units, in-room washers/dryers, large patios or balconies, and a range of unit sizes from studios to two-bedroom suites with two bathrooms. Many apartments have been renovated or are brand-new and fresh carpet/no odor is often mentioned. Community amenities are robust: an indoor pool and Jacuzzi, water aerobics and exercise classes with instructors, a well-equipped exercise room, heated underground parking, a library with conversation nooks, theater and live entertainment, woodworking and game rooms, and scheduled transportation to shopping and medical appointments. On-site physical and occupational therapy and an emergency call system in apartments are important positives for residents who want to stay independent but have access to clinical resources and an easy transfer path to higher care.
Dining and food receive mixed but generally favorable attention. Numerous reviewers praise the food quality and a long-tenured chef, describing meals as "gourmet" or "country-club" quality and noting good variety. Weekly housekeeping and server friendliness in the dining room are often commended. However, there are isolated but strong negative reports: some reviewers say meals are "terrible," note lack of flavor, mention hair in food, or report frozen store-bought items. There are also differing comments about meal coverage—some plans include meals while others provide only continental breakfast or two meals—so prospective residents should confirm what dining is included in their contract and whether meal quality and service meet their expectations.
Activities and social life are a standout theme. Reviewers consistently describe a busy calendar with live performances, pool tournaments, bingo, bridge, woodworking, Friday Frolics, exercise and water classes, and frequent low-cost outings. The community is described as energetic and social, with many residents staying active and engaged. This social vibrancy contributes to repeated statements that the Lodge feels like "home," with many long-term residents reporting high satisfaction and emotional well-being.
Management, contract details and costs surface as an area to approach carefully. Several reviewers found the buy-in and pricing structure confusing—some mention optional buy-in with potential monthly rate reductions (one reviewer referenced a reduction to $900), while others described a sales-oriented touring experience. Practical contract terms—annual lease requirements and upfront first/last/deposit—are flagged as necessary to know in advance. Guest rooms and party rooms exist but may carry additional fees. Overall, reviewers recommend asking specific questions about buy-in vs. lease options, meal inclusions, extra fees, and move-in costs to avoid surprises.
Maintenance and safety show a generally positive picture but with some concerns. Many reviews praise cleanliness, updated interiors and active maintenance; others note dated common areas, exterior maintenance needs (e.g., rotting windows), or older portions of the complex despite interior updates. Accessibility limitations (narrow hallways and limited wheelchair space in parts of the facility) and the independent-living focus mean the community may not be suitable for people needing higher levels of personal care—though transfer to higher care appears to be manageable. A few serious isolated incidents are mentioned: a mouse infestation reported by one reviewer and a fire on 6/10/23. While these do not represent the majority experience, they are salient and should be considered by prospective residents and families.
In summary, Elite Lodge of Ashworth is widely regarded as a warm, activity-rich independent living community with friendly staff, spacious and customizable apartments, strong recreational and therapy amenities, and a social, family-like atmosphere. Most reviewers praise food, housekeeping, and the broad activity roster, and many cite long-term satisfaction. Key caveats for prospective residents include clarifying buy-in/lease pricing and meal inclusions, verifying unit storage and accessibility needs, inspecting specific apartments for dated features or exterior issues, and asking about pest control and incident history. For independent seniors seeking an active, well-staffed community with extensive amenities, Elite Lodge of Ashworth frequently ranks highly; those who require assisted living-level services, are sensitive to inconsistent dining, or need clear, simple pricing should obtain detailed, written answers before committing.
