Grabael Home in Fort Washington, MD

Information last verified:

9000 Old Palmer Road, Fort Washington, MD 20744

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

4.2 from 110 reviews
5 stars
83
4 stars
5
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 stars
20

Overall Review of Grabael Home

Pros

  • pro The staff are consistently professional and courteous.
  • pro Felicia is wonderful, understanding, and an asset to the team.
  • pro Hasani is highly professional, patient, and quick to resolve issues.
  • pro Colby is reliable, friendly, and explains repairs clearly.
  • pro Todd provides fast, efficient maintenance and excellent customer service.
  • pro The front desk staff are heartfelt, professional, and helpful.
  • pro Heather and Todd are praised for going above and beyond to resolve essential concerns.

Cons

  • pro The complex is unsafe to live in, with reports of car theft, package theft, and even gunshots nearby.
  • pro The management is unresponsive and unhelpful, often directing residents to emails that never get answered.
  • pro The buildings are old and poorly maintained, with mold, leaks, and loud neighbors.
  • pro Utilities are misrepresented and charges are inflated, sometimes billed as rent.
  • pro Maintenance requests take days or weeks to resolve and come with little or no communication.
  • pro The property is infested with roaches, and extermination efforts are described as ineffective.
  • pro The front office is rude and unprofessional, and evictions are used to pressure tenants.
  • pro Parking is a nightmare: towing happens 24/7 and there’s little to no guest parking.

Review

This community is best suited for renters who want inexpensive, reasonably sized apartments and place a premium on responsive maintenance support, even when the building shows its age. For families or individuals who can tolerate older infrastructure and occasional quality gaps in the interiors, the upside is the availability of relatively large living spaces at rents that keep overall housing costs manageable. Those who require flawless interiors, pristine pest control, and perfectly predictable administrative processes should consider alternatives. The reviews show a pattern: affordable units and helpful maintenance staff collide with ongoing concerns about mold, pests, and inconsistent management communication. In short, this property works for budget-minded tenants who prioritize practical, hands-on maintenance help over a turnkey, magazine-perfect living experience.

The strongest, recurring positives center on maintenance responsiveness and on-site courtesy. Several technicians, notably Hasani, Colby, and Tod, are consistently praised for their professionalism, speed, and willingness to explain what they are doing. When calls are answered promptly, repairs are completed with competence, and the work is explained clearly, residents feel a tangible sense of relief and confidence that someone understands the problem and will follow through. Front-desk interactions occasionally rise to the same standard, and the property’s outdoor amenities (where present), such as a dog park and a pool, add practical value for households with active pets or children. These operational strengths can offset many of the day-to-day annoyances that come with aging plumbing, appliances, and building systems.

Yet those strengths are repeatedly offset by broader, systemic drawbacks. The most persistent wounds in the reviews are environmental and upkeep failures: mold in bathrooms, roaches in units, leaks that flood rooms, and water or sewer issues shared across tenants. Several reports describe cabinets, ceilings, and floors that reveal the building’s age, with repairs that feel reactive rather than preventative. Maintenance requests can drift into a backlog, with some residents waiting days or weeks for crucial fixes. The contrast between the commendable hands-on work of a few maintenance techs and the broader impression of deferred or slow-acting interior improvements is stark. The result is a mix of “hands-on help when it arrives” and “systems that let problems fester in between visits.”

Management and communication emerge as the most fragile thread. Some tenants recount rude or unresponsive office staff, unclear billing practices, and even alarming experiences around evictions or lease non-renewals. A subset of reviews highlights genuine efforts by newer leadership, managerial staff that are empathetic, timely, and more transparent, but these instances feel episodic rather than standard. The risk here is that good maintenance can be undermined by inconsistent administrative support, unclear utility charges, and a pervasive sense that resident concerns disappear into a busy inbox or a distant corporate layer. For families who rely on steady, proactive communication to coordinate schedules, medical needs, or transport, these gaps become a decisive factor.

The practical decision, therefore, hinges on risk tolerance and priority. If the priority is reliable, courteous maintenance and affordable space, the positives can justify the trade-offs, especially for tenants who can supervise their own unit-level upkeep and who are prepared to document issues carefully and push for timely responses. However, if the expectation is a fully modernized interior, zero pest activity, water-tight ceilings, and consistently proactive property management, the cons will overwhelm the appeal. Prospective residents should demand concrete remediation timelines, written pest-control plans, and a commitment to preventive maintenance, rather than recurring, after-the-fact fixes, to determine whether this community can align with the health and comfort standards required by a household.

Actionable due diligence for movers is clear. Conduct a thorough move-in inspection with a detailed checklist and insist on documented mold and pest treatment histories, along with a written plan for ongoing remediation. Request a transfer protocol if any unit exhibits ongoing moisture or structural concerns. Verify parking arrangements, visitor policies, and all utility billing components to avoid surprises on move-in day and in monthly statements. Ask for a fixed point of contact within the maintenance team and a supervisor-level contact in the management office to ensure accountability. Clarify emergency maintenance processes and expected response times, so the most urgent needs, heat, leaks, or electrical issues, receive timely attention. These steps help counterbalance the realities reflected in the reviews and set clearer expectations from the outset.

In sum, the community offers honest value for those who can live with imperfect interiors and a management system still maturing. The maintenance team’s best-in-class bedside manner and technical competence provide real, tangible relief when problems arise, and affordable layouts appeal to cost-conscious households. Yet the chronic interior concerns, ambiguous billing practices, and occasional communication gaps require a careful, prepared approach. For families weighing options, this property stands out as a sensible choice only if the emphasis stays on practical day-to-day living and if the resident is ready to actively monitor, document, and advocate for timely, transparent fixes. If ease of management, pristine units, and unambiguous administrative processes are non-negotiable, alternatives should be pursued without delay.

Features

Housing

  • 5 resident community capacity 5 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.

Amenities

  • 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.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs 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.
  • 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.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • 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 (7 miles away) Ronald Reagan Washington National (7 miles away)

Care Services

  • 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.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • 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.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

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.
  • 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

The Grabael Home in Fort Washington, MD is a fully furnished assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services for its residents. The community features a dining room where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the on-site staff. Additionally, the charming garden and outdoor spaces provide opportunities for relaxation and socializing.

Housekeeping services are provided to ensure that residents can enjoy a clean and comfortable living environment. Move-in coordination is also available to assist new residents with the transition process.

For those in need of care assistance, the Grabael Home offers support with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The staff also coordinates with healthcare providers to ensure that each resident's medical needs are met. Specialized care for diabetes patients is available, including meal planning and medication management.

Residents can look forward to engaging in scheduled daily activities designed to promote socialization and overall well-being. Additionally, there are three nearby cafes, two parks, six pharmacies, 17 restaurants, three transportation options, and one place of worship conveniently located near the community.

At the Grabael Home, seniors can enjoy a comfortable and supportive environment where their physical and social needs are well taken care of.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • Hovermale's Taste Best (0.5 miles)
  • Grace's Mandarin (2 miles)
  • The Walrus Oyster & Ale House (2 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.2 miles)
  • TAP Sports Bar (2.3 miles)
  • Bojangles' Famous Chicken 'n Biscuits (2.7 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.7 miles)

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (1.3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (3.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (4.1 miles)
  • Walgreens (5.1 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (2 miles)
  • Mae's Market and Cafe (4.2 miles)
  • For Five Coffee (4.8 miles)
  • Junction Bakery & Bistro (5.3 miles)
  • Panera Bread (5.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (6.1 miles)
  • Philz Coffee (7.5 miles)

Parks

  • Waterfront Park (3.8 miles)
  • Fort Hunt Park (4.9 miles)
  • Huntley Meadows Park (6.5 miles)
  • Gravelly Point Park (7.4 miles)
  • The Yards Park (7.5 miles)
  • L'Enfant Square (7.5 miles)
  • Long Bridge Park (7.7 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Marys Catholic Church (4.4 miles)
  • Maryland Gospel Assembly (6.1 miles)

Transportation

  • King Street - Old Town Metro Station (4.9 miles)
  • Braddock Road Metro Station (4.9 miles)
  • Amtrak (4.9 miles)
  • Eisenhower Avenue Metro Station (5.1 miles)
  • TSA PreCheck (6.4 miles)
  • Terminal A (6.4 miles)
  • Delta Sky Club (6.6 miles)

Physicians

  • Patient First - Alexandria (5 miles)
  • Diagnostic Radiology (5.3 miles)
  • Telegraph Corner Family Medicine (5.6 miles)

Hospitals

  • Inova Mount Vernon Hospital (5.1 miles)
  • Inova Mount Vernon Hospital Emergency Room (5.2 miles)
  • St Elizabeths Hospital (5.7 miles)
  • MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital Center (6.1 miles)
  • Riverside Medical District Heights (7.7 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Hoffman Center 22 (5.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Grabael Home?

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