Dolan Memory Care At Calais in Saint Louis, MO

1225 Tennant Road, Saint Louis, MO 63146

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

4.5 from 79 reviews
5 stars
68
4 stars
1
3 stars
0
2 stars
3
1 stars
7

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Dolan Memory Care At Calais

Pros

  • pro Amanda is doing a great job with her group and is very patient and attentive.
  • pro The Dolan Memory Care staff show warmth, expertise, and genuine compassion that sets them apart.
  • pro Dolan offers a home-like environment with smaller, thoughtfully designed homes that feel peaceful and safe.
  • pro The caregivers become extended family, consistently going above and beyond for residents.
  • pro The care at Dolan provides dignity, love, and peace of mind to families.
  • pro Amanda and Bobby regularly organize outings that keep residents engaged and energized, with updates shared to families.
  • pro The staff are kind, caring, respectful, and feel like family to residents and their loved ones.
  • pro Dolan's personalized, resident-centered approach in a small home setting creates a joyful, supportive community where residents thrive.

Cons

  • pro An attendant sat on her cell phone while residents waited for help, and no one answered the phone, which the reviewer called "not a great place to be."
  • pro A reviewer says a friend was not allowed visitors for months and was living a nightmare, allegedly caused by Dolan.
  • pro Debbie the house manager is described as rude and unfriendly, with claims of favoritism and unrelated allegations about people living in the basement.
  • pro Tonya is accused of yelling at residents for 12 hours, with Debbie allowing it.
  • pro The reviewer warns that staff without credentials can work 13-hour shifts and may be hit, kicked, or bitten by residents.
  • pro A reviewer calls the facility "the most evil people ever," alleging residents were beaten and not fed and stating they would not recommend the place.
  • pro A reviewer says the care was not good and that it was a horrible place, including not informing them when a loved one was dying and not allowing them to see her in time.
  • pro Move-in promises were not kept, with nothing ready at move-in and promised amenities (like an electric bed and TV hookup) missing.
  • pro A reviewer states they paid about $21,000 for five weeks of inadequate care.

Review

Dolan Memory Care at Calais in Saint Louis is best suited for families seeking a dementia-focused, home-like environment where residents are known individually and can remain as independent as possible while receiving highly personalized care. The setting uses small, neighborhood-style houses with 11?12 residents, private rooms, and secure outdoor spaces, all supervised by on-site nursing. The core appeal is a deep, relationship-driven model in which staff become extended family and daily life centers on meaningful activity, easy family access, and a sense of belonging rather than institutional routine. For families prioritizing engagement, autonomy within safety, and a lively, compassionate staff culture, Dolan offers a compelling fit.

Those who may want to consider alternatives are families needing heavier clinical oversight or a more traditional medical model. Some reviewers cite concerns about responsiveness or consistency in staffing, and a few point to billing questions or limited transparency around move-in terms. For loved ones whose care needs are highly medically complex, or whose families require a guaranteed, highly predictable care cadence with less emphasis on outings and social programming, a larger facility with broader clinical resources could feel more reassuring. Likewise, families wary of any staff turnover or documented disputes about deposits and refunds will want to scrutinize the center's contracts and governance before committing.

On the upside, the Dolan model delivers a robust blend of warmth, purpose, and activity that many families find transformative. The "Director of Fun" and the activity team design ongoing outings - billiards, park visits, restaurants, dog parks, and community biking trips - that routinely re-engage residents and support mood, energy, and social connection. Reviews repeatedly highlight the quality of engagement, with caregivers who are attentive, patient, and genuinely invested in each resident's dignity and enjoyment. The home-like atmosphere - private rooms, familiar furnishings, and a climate of trust - consistently translates into calmer behaviors, better mood, and a sense of safety that families value deeply.

Yet the experience is not uniformly flawless. A minority of reviews report communication gaps, occasional staff friction, and specific instances where expectations around responsiveness, engagement, or billing were not met. While these accounts are far from universal, they underline a reality: Dolan's strengths hinge on stable, well-coordinated teams and consistent supervisory practices. Families entering the community should probe current staffing plans, ask for transparent details about nurse availability, and request real-world examples of how care plans adapt to shifting resident needs. The most reliable expectations come from speaking with multiple families in residence and reviewing recent performance notes.

Operationally, Dolan emphasizes a resident-centered, low-stimulation, high-participation model that often translates into measurable quality of life gains. Residents benefit from intimate caregiver ratios (reputedly around 1:5 in the houses), on-site nursing, and the ability to "age in place" without frequent moves. The architecture supports safe wandering, capacity for independent outdoor activity, and easy access to family for visits or photo updates. The combination of a secure, homey setting with an active outings schedule appeals especially to families who want their loved one to maintain routines, participate in group and solo activities, and stay connected to the broader community through ongoing engagement.

For families weighing Dolan against other options, the verdict rests on alignment of values and risk tolerance. If the priority is a truly person-centered, small-community memory care where staff know residents well, celebrate daily life, and work closely with families to sustain joy and purpose, Dolan stands out. If the priority is a highly clinical setting with extensive medical oversight, predictable administrative processes, and fewer out-of-facility trips, consider alternatives and compare not just the glossy promises but the lived experiences of current residents and their families. Prospective residents should tour several homes, speak candidly with caregivers and family mentors, and read the latest house-level performance data before deciding.

Features

Housing

  • 44 resident community capacity 44 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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

  • Lambert-St Louis International (5 miles away) Lambert-St Louis International (5 miles away)

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.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • 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.
  • 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

Dolan Memory Care At Calais in Saint Louis, MO is an assisted living community that provides a warm and welcoming environment for individuals with memory care needs. The community offers a range of amenities to ensure comfort and convenience for its residents. Each living space is fully furnished and includes cable or satellite TV, a kitchenette, telephone, and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access.

Residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by the staff in the onsite dining room, which accommodates special dietary restrictions. Housekeeping services are provided to maintain cleanliness and tidiness throughout the community. Additionally, move-in coordination services are available to assist new residents with their transition.

The community features outdoor spaces where residents can relax and enjoy nature. There are also scheduled daily activities that cater to individual interests and abilities. A mental wellness program is offered to enhance cognitive function and overall well-being.

At Dolan Memory Care At Calais, care services are available around the clock to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents. Trained staff provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management is also provided to ensure proper administration of medications.

The location of this assisted living community offers convenience with several amenities nearby. There are three cafes for residents to visit and socialize with friends or family members. Two parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. In addition, there are 19 pharmacies nearby for easy access to medications and healthcare supplies.

For dining options outside the community, there are 11 restaurants located nearby offering various cuisines to satisfy different tastes. Transportation options are readily available with five transportation services nearby for convenient travel arrangements.

Furthermore, the proximity of four hospitals ensures quick access to medical care in case of emergencies or routine check-ups.

Overall, Dolan Memory Care At Calais provides a supportive environment where individuals with memory care needs can thrive while receiving personalized assistance in their daily lives.

Nearby Places of Interest

Cafes

  • Panera Bread (0.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.2 miles)
  • Panera Bread (4.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (6.3 miles)
  • Blueprint Coff (6.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.5 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.7 miles)
  • Schnucks (0.8 miles)
  • Dierbergs (1.2 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.4 miles)
  • Dierbergs (2.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.9 miles)
  • Schnucks (3.1 miles)

Restaurants

  • McDonald's (1.8 miles)
  • Westport Social (2 miles)
  • Westport Plaza (2 miles)
  • St Louis Bread Company (2.1 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.3 miles)
  • Syberg's Dorsett (2.7 miles)
  • McDonald's (3 miles)

Hospitals

  • Barnes-Jewish West County Hospital (2.7 miles)
  • St John's Mercy Surgery Center (2.9 miles)
  • DePaul Hospital (4.8 miles)
  • DePaul Health Center - Emergency Room (4.8 miles)

Parks

  • Creve Coeur Park (4.6 miles)
  • Shaw Park (4.6 miles)
  • Tilles Park Neighborhood (5.3 miles)
  • Des Peres Park (5.5 miles)
  • Queeny County Park (6.2 miles)
  • Faust Park (6.8 miles)
  • Vogt Brothers Park (7 miles)

Transportation

  • Budget Rent A Car (4.8 miles)
  • Hertz Rent A Car (4.8 miles)
  • National Car Rental (4.9 miles)
  • Terminal 1 (4.9 miles)
  • Terminal 1 Passenger Pickup (4.9 miles)
  • TSA PreCheck A Gates (5 miles)
  • TSA Security Checkpoint Gates C & D (5 miles)

Physicians

  • University Club Medical (5.5 miles)
  • Orthopedic Associates (6 miles)
  • Walsh, Martin Ssm Health Outpatient Center Veterans Memorial Parkway (7.3 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Esquire 7 (6.4 miles)
  • AMC Streets Of St Charles 8 (7 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Ann Catholic School (6.6 miles)
  • Old Orchard Church (7.4 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Dolan Memory Care At Calais?

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