Frequently Asked Questions

Chesapeake Cottage is a small, family-owned assisted living home located in Snow Hill, Maryland on the beautiful Eastern Shore. We provide personalized, 24/7 care in a warm, homelike setting — not a large institutional facility.

We have just 16 beds, which allows us to provide truly individualized attention and build genuine relationships with each resident and their family.

Chesapeake Cottage is family-owned and operated. We are personally involved in the daily care and well-being of every resident. This is not just a business for us — it is our calling.

Yes. Chesapeake Cottage is fully licensed by the State of Maryland as an assisted living facility. We meet all state requirements for safety, staffing, and quality of care.

Our care includes 24/7 supervision, medication management, personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, grooming), home-cooked meals and snacks, housekeeping and laundry, social activities and engagement, and coordination with outside healthcare providers.

Please note: Incontinence supplies (briefs, pads, etc.) are not included and need to be provided by the family.

Yes. We provide specialized, compassionate care for residents with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. Our small size and trained staff allow us to offer patient, personalized memory support in a calm, secure environment.

We understand that care needs evolve. We regularly reassess each resident's needs and adjust care plans accordingly. If a resident's needs go beyond what we can safely provide, we will work with the family to find the best next step.

Because we are a small home with only 16 beds, our staff-to-resident ratio is significantly better than most larger facilities. This means more one-on-one time, faster response, and more personalized attention for every resident.

We offer a variety of daily activities tailored to our residents' interests and abilities, including arts and crafts, music, games, gardening, gentle exercise, social gatherings, holiday celebrations, and more. We focus on meaningful engagement that brings joy and purpose.

Our rates start at $4,000 per month. The exact cost depends on the level of care your loved one needs. We are happy to discuss pricing during a tour or phone consultation.

We accept private pay, including personal checks, bank transfers, and other standard payment methods. We can discuss payment arrangements during the admissions process.

Medicare generally does not cover room and board for assisted living. However, it may cover certain medical services such as doctor visits and therapy. Medicaid waiver programs in Maryland may help some individuals. We recommend contacting us to discuss your specific situation.

Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for the VA Aid and Attendance benefit, which can help cover the cost of assisted living. We can help guide you through the process of applying for this benefit.

No. We believe in transparent, straightforward pricing. Your monthly rate covers room, board, and the care services outlined in your loved one's care plan. We will always discuss any potential changes in cost with you before they take effect.

Absolutely! We encourage families to visit and see Chesapeake Cottage in person. You can schedule a tour by calling us at 443-880-6255 or by using the contact form on our website.

The process starts with a phone call or tour so we can learn about your loved one's needs. From there, we conduct an assessment, review medical history, and work with your family to create a personalized care plan. We make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. We can also offer same-day admissions if all required paperwork has been submitted.

Two important forms are required before admission to any assisted living facility in Maryland:

• MOLST (Maryland Order for Life-Sustaining Treatment) — This form documents a resident's wishes regarding life-sustaining treatment. Download MOLST Form (PDF)
• HCPF (Health Care Practitioner Form) — This medical form must be completed by your loved one's physician prior to move-in. Download HCPF Form (PDF)

Please note: These forms are required for admission to any assisted living facility in Maryland, not just Chesapeake Cottage. Having them ready ahead of time helps ensure a smooth and timely move-in.

Yes! Family involvement is important to us. We welcome visits and encourage families to stay connected with their loved ones. We simply ask that visits respect the comfort and routine of all residents.

We encourage residents to bring personal items that make them feel at home — favorite photos, a cozy blanket, familiar decorations, and comfortable clothing. We provide furniture, linens, and all daily necessities. We will give you a detailed checklist during the admissions process.

Because we are a small home with only 16 beds, availability can be limited. We recommend reaching out early so we can add you to our waiting list if no beds are currently available. Call us at 443-880-6255 to check availability.

A typical day includes a home-cooked breakfast, morning activities or relaxation, lunch, afternoon engagement such as games or crafts, dinner with the household, and quiet evening time. Every day is flexible and tailored to each resident's preferences and energy level.

We prepare nutritious, home-cooked meals fresh daily — breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. We accommodate dietary needs and preferences. Our meals are made with care, just like you would prepare for your own family.

Yes, residents are welcome to go on outings with family members. Any outings are planned with the resident's safety and well-being in mind.

We know how much pets mean to our residents and their families. Well-behaved, vaccinated pets are welcome to visit. We just ask that visits are coordinated in advance so we can ensure the comfort of all residents.