Our Story: The Vision Behind Just Like Home Memory Care

Created From a Belief That Memory Care Should Feel Like Home

Just Like Home began with a simple realization:

Traditional memory care often felt overwhelming and impersonal in large facility settings, missing the warmth, familiarity, and connection families hope for.

We believed there had to be a better way —real homes like your loved one is used to- rooted in comfort, dignity, and genuine human connection.

The Founder's Vision

Deirdre JP Virvo, Founder

Through her firsthand experiences with senior care, Deirdre JP Virvo recognized the need for a more personal, human-centered approach to memory care.

Rather than creating another large facility, she envisioned small, thoughtfully designed residential homes where individuals could be truly known and supported as people — not managed as patients.

Her vision is guided by simple, intentional principles:

These principles continue to shape every Just Like Home residence — from how our homes are designed to how daily life unfolds inside them.

A Culture of Care, From the Inside Out

We invest in our team so they can care with presence, compassion, and purpose.

Chosen with Care

We thoughtfully select caregivers who share our values of compassion, patience, and respect. Every team member is chosen for both skill and heart.

Trained and Supported

Our caregivers receive ongoing training and guidance, giving them the confidence and tools they need to provide thoughtful, attentive memory care.

Consistent Relationships

We prioritize caregiver consistency so residents can form strong, trusting relationships with caregivers they know, helping each day feel familiar, predictable, and supportive.

Part of the Home,
Not Just the Job

Caregivers are integrated into daily life — sharing meals, routines, and meaningful moments that make each home feel truly personal.

Open Communication
& Team Support

Our caregivers work closely with leadership and families, fostering collaboration, transparency, and shared understanding.

A Culture That Values Quality of Life

We believe caregiving is about more than tasks. It’s about presence, connection, and improving quality of life — for residents and caregivers alike.

More Than a Residence — A Place to Belong

Our homes are not facilities. They are real houses in real neighborhoods — places where life continues in familiar, comforting ways.

From shared meals and everyday routines to quiet moments and genuine connection, care is woven naturally into daily life.

This is not just where our residents live.
It’s where they are known, understood, and truly at home.

What This Means for Families

Choosing memory care is one of the hardest decisions a family can make.

At Just Like Home, we honor that trust by caring for each resident as we would our own family — with patience, respect, and genuine compassion.

Families find peace of mind knowing their loved one is safe, supported, and surrounded by people who truly care.

Words from Families Who Know Our Homes

“Dogwood Home is an extraordinary place. It is pretty much a template for what a care home for the elderly should be. One key factor in its remarkable success is that it is small — only six residents. These residents are not in an institution; they are in their home, cared for by a small group of staff they get to know well, and who know them well. The physical environment in Dogwood Home is impeccable. Each resident has a spacious private bedroom with an equally spacious en-suite bathroom. The entire home has been designed by someone who truly understands the needs of the elderly and infirm. Every visiting medical professional I met was deeply impressed, and more than one said they had never seen anything like it. Following a stroke, my wife spent time in a large nursing home where she became withdrawn and immobile. In a short time at Dogwood Home — where I was able to visit freely — she became more like herself again and was able to walk short distances with assistance. The driving force behind Dogwood Home is a remarkable woman with a deep commitment to caring for the elderly with dignity and comfort.”

“I visited many different communities while searching for the right place for my dad, and Just Like Home immediately stood out. Having only six residents creates a much quieter, more personal environment than larger facilities. The feeling of still living in a home made the transition much easier for my dad. The house is fresh and modern without feeling like a hotel, set in a beautiful neighborhood with a large yard. The residents are welcoming, and Deirdre was incredibly flexible in scheduling a tour. I would recommend anyone looking for the right place for a loved one to visit Just Like Home.”

“The first time I visited Just Like Home at Dogwood with my father, I immediately noticed how warm, calm, and inviting it felt. The home is beautifully designed, filled with natural light, and offers private rooms and bathrooms for each resident. My father loves being in a neighborhood that feels familiar to his own home, especially spending time in the back deck and in the yard. Deirdre is incredibly compassionate and caring. Moving my dad into a home was a difficult decision, but it was the best one we could have made. He is safe, well cared for, and because there are only six residents, it truly feels like family. Most importantly, he is happy.”

“I am very happy with the care my Mother receives at Just Like Home. Professional and kind people with lots of activities to keep the residents active, along with house kittens which keep them entertained as well. Each resident has their own room with bathrooms designed for the elderly. The home is spotless and really feels Just like home.” My father loves being in a neighborhood that feels familiar to his own home, especially spending time in the back deck and in the yard. Deirdre is incredibly compassionate and caring. Moving my dad into a home was a difficult decision, but it was the best one we could have made. He is safe, well cared for, and because there are only six residents, it truly feels like family. Most importantly, he is happy.”

“I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident — The name of the establishment says it all. Just Like Home! I am so happy with the wonderful staff the accommodations for my mother.The ratio of residents to aids is small and you get to know all the residents and their family members . I feel that the staff that takes care of the residents do a wonderful job. My loved one is well taken care of and is not just a number. The Atmosphere inside and outside the home is peaceful and they bring in entertainment and music to stimulate the residents. I Love that I can have a few laughs with everyone and enjoy their company.It is so nice that you really feel part of this great organization. I know how hard it was to take care of my mom , and I feel so blessed that my concerns for my Mom have been addressed and they are willing and open to discuss your needs. I originally had my loved one in a large facility and I am so grateful that this wonderful home exists. Also the food is healthy and delicious and my mothers hygiene has never been better. I know how hard everyone works to make this a Loving and Caring home . Absolutely Amazing. What a beautiful gift for your Loved one. I am able to visit and see the Joy my mom expresses with Gods Angels that watch out for all the residents and each other! Anyhow see for yourself! You won’t be disappointed ”

Visit Us and Experience the Difference

The best way to understand Just Like Home is to experience it in person.
We invite you to visit one of our residential memory care homes and see the difference for yourself.