Larmax Homes - 8337 Lewinsville

Our family went on a lot of tours of DC-area assisted living places, and Larmax had a different feel to it than any others: light, airy, very clean, more like an actual home than a facility, which made the transition easier for our loved one. It's generally quieter than other places, too, but that doesn't mean there's any lack of liveliness. Just from what I've personally observed, there are sing-alongs, art projects, parties, outside presenters (doing art, stories, poetry, etc., with residents), a whole variety of activities to keep folks engaged. Each family will have to make its own decision about what's best, and maybe some will prefer the larger-scale, more obviously bustling assisted living situations, but thus far, I've never questioned that Larmax was the right choice.

Our father lived here for 2.5 years and it was a wonderful experience. They treat the residents with respect and truly loving care. The opportunities they offer residents both with activities (therapy horses!) and independence within the home are amazing.

While we were very pleased to discover the small home model of care for my mother while she aged with dementia, our experience with Larmax was a mixed bag. My mother was in a Larmax home in Virginia for about two years, and for the most part the staff were helpful, polite and caring. Turnover has recently been very high, which made it difficult for us to get to know the quickly changing staff. It was especially trying for the home to fill the nursing position. A few of the staff were truly exemplary. Others were either not helpful or not able to communicate effectively, and this was a real issue as my mother's end of life approached. My biggest disappointment, however, is unequivocally that the home's policy is that residents must give 30-days notice of intent to depart. The residents are in their last years/months when they arrive at the home, and this is likely their final home and where they will die. My mother went into hospice care in early May and - silly me - I failed to give the home 30-days notice. It was clear to all that she was dying, and that her end was near. Nonetheless, after 6 weeks in hospice care, when my mother passed, Larmax charged us an additional 30-days' rent. When I asked them about this, they pointed out that this provision is in their contract. It was a frustrating note to end on (particularly given the extraordinary cost for monthly rent). I was happy to pay for the remainder of the month, but they wanted a full 30-days rent, which was an additional 20 days. We cleared out her belongings the same day she passed - I stupidly did not realize I would have an entire month in which to sort her belongings. Caveat emptor.