Avalon House on Dominion Crest sits in McLean, VA, in a quiet neighborhood, and the place really feels like a home because it only takes in up to eight residents, so you get a comfortable space that doesn't feel like an institution, and most folks say it's pretty calm and low-key, which a lot of older adults seem to like. The care team here stays around and gets to know each person, giving care that fits the person's needs, whether it's help with daily tasks, medication reminders, incontinence help, or simply making sure folks don't get too confused or wander off, especially for those who live with Alzheimer's or other memory conditions. Memory care is a main focus, so you'll see staff specially trained to handle memory problems, and the doors ring alarms if someone tries to go outside without staff, which helps keep everyone safe.
They keep a doctor, podiatrist, dentist, physical therapist, and occupational therapist around to visit when needed, and when folks have special medical needs, the team helps arrange what they need and keeps an eye out for any problems. Day or night, staff are on hand, so nobody has to worry about being alone in an emergency. Home-cooked meals come three times each day, with snacks and drinks in between, and they're good about different diets, like vegetarian or low-salt meals or gluten-free if that's a requirement, and everyone eats together if they want. The rooms feel about as big as a regular bedroom in a medium-sized house, with some people sharing a good-sized bathroom, and there are private and semi-private options along with wheelchair accessible showers, air-conditioned spaces, and fast internet.
Residents can use the walk-in tubs that make bathing much easier, and there's parking for visitors or residents who drive, plus the home sits close enough to public transportation. Inside and outside common areas give everyone places to gather for birthday parties, activities, quiet time, or just to get a fresh breath of air, and they welcome outdoor smoking if that's something someone still does. Activities stay pretty steady, with chaplains visiting, games, exercise, or whatever fits the crowd, and the community makes it simple for people to help with errands or shopping so nobody feels stranded or stuck.
Safety gets a lot of attention, not just with alarms, but with things like medical alert systems, home security, medication dispensers, and staff who always keep an eye out. Folks who need respite or temporary help can stay as well, giving regular caregivers a break or providing short-term care after surgery or a family crisis. Residents with diabetes, high needs, or memory loss all get a care plan that's built for them, and staff do their best to keep folks healthy while respecting privacy and independence. The place gets high marks from families and visitors-an average 9.9 out of 10 rating-and stands as the second highest rated community in McLean, but the atmosphere there stays homey and not showy.
All told, Avalon House on Dominion Crest serves mostly older adults who need help with memory care or assisted living, providing meals, laundry, medication help, lots of careful supervision, and a space that feels like home, not a big facility. The care goes beyond just the basics, with everything designed to help seniors keep their dignity, find some company, and stay safe in a peaceful place where the staff really do know their names.
