Knollwood Military Retirement Community

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  • Interior

    A spacious and well-lit living and dining area with elegant furniture and large windows.
  • Outdoors

    A serene garden with a tranquil pond surrounded by lush trees and greenery.
  • Decor

    Spacious living and dining area with elegant furniture and decor.
  • Living Room

    A spacious and elegantly decorated living room with comfortable seating and a patterned carpet.
  • Architecture

    A charming stone Tudor-style house with well-maintained landscaping and prominent chimneys.
  • Trees

    A well-lit apartment building with a brick exterior surrounded by trees and neatly maintained landscaping during the evening.
  • Windows

    A bright sunroom filled with natural light, featuring comfortable seating and glass tables.
  • Bathroom

    A modern bathroom featuring a glass-enclosed shower, toilet, and sink with a large mirror.
  • Chandelier

    A classic interior featuring a wooden staircase and chandelier.

Knollwood Military Retirement Community

6200 Oregon Avenue, Washington, DC 20015

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.9 from 16 reviews
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Assisted Living Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Independent Living Memory Care Respite Care

Overall Review of Knollwood Military Retirement Community

Pros

  • pro Knollwood is clean and well-maintained.
  • pro The staff are kind, caring, and friendly.
  • pro The nursing staff are proactive and engaged on the floor.
  • pro There are always activities, field trips, and opportunities for residents to socialize.
  • pro The grounds are beautiful and the main areas are bright and well-maintained.
  • pro The atmosphere is positive throughout the community.
  • pro Anthony Burgess is a valued, positive, and welcoming member of the Knollwood team.
  • pro The Knoll House stay felt welcoming, like minor royalty, reflecting the quality of the community.

Cons

  • pro The rents have been raised more than inflation.
  • pro The pool and hot tub don't work.
  • pro The roofs have needed replacement for seven years, and residents have experienced multiple leaks.
  • pro There are trash cans to collect water in the hallways.
  • pro The AC in the halls has been broken for four months.
  • pro Residents are afraid to go downstairs, and there isn't enough help downstairs.
  • pro Management's communication with residents is poor, and there seems to be nowhere to voice concerns.
  • pro A fire drill left residents waiting in a hallway for nearly an hour without guidance.
  • pro The size of the apartment was misrepresented, and the monthly charges are high after paying a large upfront amount.

Review

Knollwood presents itself in many lights, blending warm appreciations with hard-edged critiques. Several reviewers highlight a welcoming atmosphere under new leadership, with a nursing corps that is actively engaged and moving about rather than remaining tethered to desks. The overall sense from these accounts is that the community has real strengths in person-centered care and daily life, especially for those seeking long-term or short-term care options. The property's grounds are repeatedly described as beautiful, and the main living areas are noted for their brightness and upkeep. Activities are plentiful - field trips and in-hall social moments contribute to a lively environment that many residents and visiting families appreciate.

A standout thread within the praise centers on staff demeanor and culture. One family member singles out Anthony Burgess (referred to as Tony) for his exceptional contribution to Knollwood and its residents. From a poised first impression to a consistently warm, welcoming presence, Tony is described as a rare positive force who can lift moods and provide reassurance in challenging moments. Several visitors recount how interactions with him transformed stressful visits into more hopeful experiences, underscoring the value placed on staff who combine competence with genuine kindness. This kind of staff persona - approachable, upbeat, and attentive - emerges as a core strength cited by many reviewers.

The campus experience itself is framed by a mix of physical amenities and social opportunities. The grounds and common rooms are repeatedly praised for maintaining a cheerful, well-kept aesthetic, and the campus offers enough activities to keep residents socially engaged. One reviewer even notes a winter-time backyard treasure - a sledding hill that becomes a local highlight after snowfalls, albeit with a caution about the trees. Such anecdotes point to a community that, for many, feels pleasant, inviting, and full of opportunities to engage with others and enjoy the outdoors.

Yet, beneath the veneer of warmth and activity lies a substantial portion of critical feedback. Several reviewers describe the nursing home portion of the property as adequate but not outstanding, signaling room for improvement in core medical or daily-care services. They contrast this with other elements of Knollwood - such as the social calendar and the environment - by pointing to gaps in consistency and quality of care that are hard to overlook. In some accounts, the care experience is tempered by logistical and organizational frictions that sap the overall impression of the facility.

Financial and administrative concerns loom large in a number of reviews. Multiple families report steep rent increases and ongoing maintenance or infrastructure issues - roofs that leak, broken air conditioning in the hallways, and a prolonged period of nonfunctional amenities like the pool and hot tub. There are also pointed complaints about the condition of the physical plant downstairs, with fears expressed about safety and the overall appeal of lower-level spaces. The sense from these reviews is that while the surface-level environment may be pleasant, the day-to-day reliability and long-term maintenance of facilities and services can be uneven.

Communication and transparency emerge as a recurring pain point. Several reviewers describe frustration with how management handles requests, feedback, and safety concerns. In one particularly stark example, a fire drill left residents waiting for guidance without clear instructions, underscoring what some see as a disconnect between administration and residents or their families. There are also troubling anecdotes about misalignment between what is promised and what is delivered - ranging from perceived overstatement of unit size to concerns about how well residents downstream are supported and informed during emergencies.

The reviews also reveal a challenging mix of experiences with third-party services and the broader brand of Knollwood. Some families reference unpleasant experiences involving referrals to contractors and movers, with allegations of overpriced services that feel financially burdensome or exploitative. A number of critics describe Knollwood as no longer aligning with the image or expectations of a military retirement community, arguing that the current model prioritizes revenue and efficiency over the depth and consistency of care once associated with its legacy. The phrase "elder abuse" appears in one strongly worded critique, describing pricing and referral practices as indicators of financial exploitation. These comments contribute to a perception among some readers that Knollwood's current economic model may erode trust and raise questions about how vulnerable residents are protected.

Interwoven with the criticisms are explicit reminders about the name and identity of Knollwood. Several reviewers insist on the importance of recognizing the site as Knollwood Military Retirement Community, or as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that encompasses multiple levels of elder care, rather than simply labeling it a traditional nursing home. This distinction matters to some families who value or expect a particular structure of care and status, and it frames many of the debates about quality, scope, and accessibility.

In sum, Knollwood emerges as a place of contrasts. For many residents and their families, the facility offers a bright, activity-rich environment with a caring, highly regarded staff member in Anthony Burgess, and a setting that feels like home in meaningful ways. For others, significant concerns about management communication, maintenance, safety, and the cost structure temper that positivity and raise questions about long-term reliability and value. The varied experiences point to a community with real strengths in human connection and social life, yet also one with substantial opportunities to improve operational transparency, infrastructure upkeep, and consistency of medical and daily-care services.

Features

Housing

  • 22 resident community capacity 22 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
  • Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) are important for seniors because they provide a range of housing options and care services all in one location. This allows seniors to age in place and receive the level of care they need as their health changes, without having to move to a new facility. CCRCs provide a sense of security and peace of mind for seniors and their families, knowing that they will be taken care of no matter what the future holds.
  • Independent Living Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.
  • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.
  • Respite Care Respite CareRespite care provides temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to recharge and attend to their own needs. It also gives seniors the opportunity to socialize, receive professional care, and experience a change of scenery, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation.

Amenities

  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Ronald Reagan Washington National (8 miles away) Ronald Reagan Washington National (8 miles away)
  • Washington Dulles International (22 miles away) Washington Dulles International (22 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
  • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.

Care Services

  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Knollwood Military Retirement Community in Washington, DC is a comprehensive senior living community offering various types of care to meet the needs of its residents. As a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), it provides a continuum of care, ensuring that seniors can age in place and have access to various levels of assistance as needed.

For those who prefer an independent lifestyle, Knollwood offers Independent Living options. Residents can enjoy fully furnished accommodations with amenities like cable or satellite TV, Wi-Fi/high-speed internet, and housekeeping services. They also have access to community-operated transportation for easy commuting and transportation arrangements for non-medical purposes.

For seniors requiring additional support, Knollwood offers Memory Care and Respite Care services. Memory Care provides 24-hour supervision and assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The community also assists with medication management, special dietary restrictions such as diabetes diets, and meal preparation and service. Additionally, residents can benefit from scheduled daily activities and fitness programs to promote physical and mental well-being.

Knollwood is conveniently located near various amenities including cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals. This ensures that residents have easy access to entertainment venues as well as necessary healthcare facilities.

Overall, Knollwood Military Retirement Community is a welcoming senior living community that prioritizes the comfort and well-being of its residents. With its range of care services and amenities such as outdoor spaces and private bathrooms in addition to the convenient nearby establishments, seniors can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle at Knollwood while receiving the support they need.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Washington, D.C. offers a diverse range of amenities and services that cater to the needs of seniors looking for a vibrant and convenient community. With multiple parks nearby such as Rock Creek Park and Chevy Chase Park, residents can enjoy the outdoors and stay active. There are also several pharmacies in the area for easy access to medications and healthcare essentials. In terms of dining options, there is a variety of restaurants offering different cuisines to suit every taste. Additionally, there are reputable medical facilities like Holy Cross Hospital and Children's National Medical Center nearby, providing peace of mind for any potential health concerns. Public transportation options are easily accessible with metro stations like Bethesda Metro Station and Georgia Ave-Petworth Metro Station within a short distance. Overall, this neighborhood provides a well-rounded environment with plenty of resources for seniors looking to live comfortably and conveniently in Washington, D.C.

Parks

  • Rock Creek Park (0.3 miles)
  • Chevy Chase Park (0.9 miles)
  • Fort Slocum Park (2.3 miles)
  • Meridian Hill Park (3.4 miles)
  • S Street Dog Park (4 miles)
  • Georgetown Waterfront Park (4.8 miles)

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (1.3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.5 miles)

Restaurants

  • Denizens Brewing Co. (1.9 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.1 miles)
  • Cactus Cantina (2.7 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (3 miles)
  • Garden District (4.1 miles)
  • Chicken + Whiskey (4.1 miles)
  • Annie's Paramount Steak House (4.2 miles)

Physicians

  • Capitol Medical Group (2 miles)
  • Mary's Center (2.9 miles)
  • Foxhall Pediatrics (3 miles)
  • Children's National - Main Hospital (3.7 miles)
  • One Medical (4.4 miles)
  • The Centers For Advanced Orthopaedics (4.6 miles)

Cafes

  • Lost Sock Roasters (2 miles)
  • Tatte Bakery & Cafe (2.2 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.8 miles)
  • The Coffee Bar (4.2 miles)
  • Tatte Bakery & Cafe (4.4 miles)
  • Blue Bottle Coffee (4.6 miles)
  • Unconventional Diner (4.8 miles)

Transportation

  • Bethesda Metro Station (2.3 miles)
  • Georgia Ave-Petworth Metro Station (2.9 miles)
  • Medical Center Metro Station (3 miles)
  • Forest Glen Metro Station (3.1 miles)
  • Shaw-Howard University Metro Station (4.3 miles)
  • Rhode Island Ave - Brentwood Metro Station (4.7 miles)
  • West Hyattsville Metro Station (4.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Holy Cross Hospital (3.2 miles)
  • Medstar Washington Hospital Center (3.6 miles)
  • Children's National Medical Center (3.7 miles)
  • Sibley Memorial Hospital (3.7 miles)
  • Howard University Hospital (4.1 miles)
  • MedStar Georgetown University Hospital (4.2 miles)
  • Georgetown University Hospital Pasquerilla Center (4.3 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Christ Congregational Church (3.5 miles)
  • Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (3.9 miles)

Theaters

  • Alamo Drafthouse Cinema DC Bryant Street (4.6 miles)
  • AMC Georgetown 14 (4.7 miles)

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