Welcome to Commonwealth Senior Living at the Ballentine
Nestled in the historic Larchmont neighborhood of Norfolk, Virginia, Commonwealth Ballentine combines 19th-century character with modern, compassionate senior care. With its gracious architecture, wraparound porch, and timeless charm, this community offers more than accommodation — it offers a home with dignity, warmth, and a deep sense of legacy. Residents enjoy a peaceful rhythm enriched by shared meals, friendships, and a caring team committed to making every day meaningful.
Care That Evolves With You
At the Ballentine, care is designed to meet you where you are — whether that’s a few helpful touches or more comprehensive support. The community offers Assisted Living, specialized Memory Care through the Sweet Memories™ program, and flexible short-term Respite stays. Because all levels of care are offered on-site, residents can remain in familiar surroundings even as their needs change — offering continuity and peace of mind for both them and their loved ones.
Assisted Living — Supportive Independence in a Caring Community
For those who benefit from help with daily tasks but still cherish autonomy, Assisted Living at the Ballentine offers personalized support without sacrificing dignity. With 24/7 staff available, residents receive help tailored to their needs — while enjoying a lifestyle built around community, comfort, and choice.
Assisted Living includes:
- Private or companion suites with private baths, allowing residents to maintain privacy while staying connected to care.
- Chef-prepared, farm-to-table meals served in a communal dining room — giving residents nutritious, flavorful dishes without cooking or cleanup.
- Weekly housekeeping and linen services, along with maintenance-free living, so residents can focus on friends, hobbies, and relaxation.
- A full calendar of social, creative, and wellness programs — from arts and crafts, music, and games to outings and shared events.
- Scheduled transportation for appointments, errands, or local outings — an easy way to stay connected with the broader Norfolk community without the need to drive yourself.
Memory Care — Compassion, Structure & Connection with Sweet Memories™
For residents living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, Sweet Memories™ Memory Care at the Ballentine offers a secure, nurturing environment designed around respect, familiarity, and meaningful engagement. Care plans are crafted personally — recognizing each individual’s story, preferences, and pace — and evolve alongside changing needs.
Key aspects of Memory Care include:
- Private or companion rooms outfitted with private baths and emergency response systems — combining comfort, privacy, and safety.
- Secure, controlled access to ensure freedom within a safe environment, giving families peace of mind while preserving dignity.
- Trained caregivers who understand dementia care, providing consistent, empathetic support day and night.
- Enriching programs tailored to memory support — life-story reminiscence, music and sensory activities, gentle movement, and social engagement, all designed to nurture connection and cognitive stimulation.
- Continuity of home: residents remain in the same community even if care needs increase over time.
Short-Term & Respite Care — Transitional Support When You Need It
The Ballentine welcomes short-term stays for recovery, transitional care, or as a trial for longer-term residency. These stays offer the comfort and amenities of full-time living — meals, personal care, social connection — giving families flexibility and a welcoming environment without long-term commitment. It’s a thoughtful bridge during life’s transitions.
Daily Life & Community Culture — A Home Where Relationships and Routine Matter
Life at Commonwealth centers around community, comfort, and the rhythms of everyday joy. With a beautifully maintained building and a team focused on care and connection, residents often describe their life here as warm, welcoming, and full of simple pleasures.
A sample of daily life highlights:
- Fresh, seasonal meals prepared by on-site chefs — from sophisticated entrées to homemade desserts — served in a dining room where conversations flow and friendships grow.
- Regular activities and events planned by a dedicated Resident Programs team — ranging from fitness classes and music performances to craft nights, social gatherings, and outings.
- A welcoming common area with cozy fireplaces, solariums for reading or relaxing, a library, and lounges where residents gather, socialize, or enjoy quiet moments.
- On-site conveniences like a salon and wellness center for personal care and therapy services, which help residents maintain mobility, appearance, and well-being without leaving home.
- Pet-friendly policies for small companion animals in select care levels — preserving continuity and comfort for residents who cherish their pets.
Location & Access — History, Convenience & Community at Your Door
Located just minutes from major hospitals and physicians — including the nearby regional medical center — This community offers families reassurance that quality healthcare is within easy reach. At the same time, its setting in Norfolk provides access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions like botanical gardens and waterfront destinations, making it easy for residents and families to stay engaged with the wider community.
The neighborhood’s walkable streets, local shops, and historic charm give residents a sense of place, while scheduled transportation makes errands, appointments, and outings simple and stress-free. Whether it’s a visit to a nearby café, a cultural outing, or a medical appointment, life here combines peace, convenience, and connection.
What Makes This Community Special
For many families, Commonwealth Senior Living at the Ballentine stands out because it offers a rare blend of characteristics: historic charm and modern comfort; compassionate care and personal dignity; security and social life. It’s not just where you get care — it’s where you live, connect, and enjoy each day with comfort and respect.
In particular, residents and families frequently note:
- A deep sense of history and character, with surroundings that feel warm, welcoming, and timeless.
- The flexibility to stay in the same community through various stages of care — from assisted living to memory care or respite stays — avoiding disruptive moves.
- Personalized care that recognizes each resident’s story, preferences, and needs — delivered by a team committed to dignity, respect, and genuine connection.
- A lifestyle that balances care with comfort — meals, programs, wellness services, and social life blend naturally, making daily living easier and more fulfilling.
- Proximity to medical, social, and cultural resources — offering families confidence in both day-to-day convenience and long-term support.
