Despite concerns raised by families of residents at Silverado Memory Care (2807 King Street), Alexandria’s Planning Commission recommended approval of a change that will let facility substantially increase (item 7) its number of residents without expanding the facility.
The plan is to increase beds on the site from 66 to 90 without any building expansion by shifting to an increased number of “companion rooms” — rooms with two residents. Loren Shook , co-founder of Silverado Memory Care, said that 80% of rooms in most facilities are companion rooms.
Beyond just allowing the facility to take on more residents, Shook said companion rooms help reduce anxiety and depression for both occupants.
Locals with families in Silverado Memory Care, however, expressed concerns.
“All of us have great concerns about the proposal and what it creates in terms of negative effects in the future for our loved ones,” said Tom Thomas, who has a family member in the facility.
Thomas and others said they were concerned about safety of residents — particularly after a man killed his roommate in one facility in California — as well as crowding in common areas, quality of care, and exacerbation of a current parking shortage at the facility.
“High resident to staff ratios and expanded ratios correlate with lower quality care,” said Paul Cooper. “Caregivers in expanded population facilities often report feeling overwhelmed, which limits their ability to provide individualized attention.”
The Planning Commission, however, generally found that the application fit with city’s zoning restrictions and would create more access to housing for those with memory care needs. Shook noted that the facility has a waitlist for beds at the moment.
“Given the demonstrated need, this is a bit of a housing case as well for us,” said Planning Commission Chair Nathan Macek. “By recommending approval, we will potentially provide residences for another up to 24 individuals who might need this type of care but aren’t receiving it at the moment.”
Several Planning Commissioners shared stories of finding homes for themselves or others.
“The operator has demonstrated capability to demonstrate care and the authorities at the state and local level for judging those particulars of the care will fulfill their function,” said Commissioner Stephen Koenig.
Commissioner Mindy Lyle abstained, saying she “can’t rationalize what’s legal with what’s right.”
The Planning Commission recommended approval for the project on a 6-0-1 vote. It heads to the City Council for review on Saturday, Dec. 14.
