A Golden Heart Family Care
Save13402 Giro Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93314
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The location is beautiful. The staff are friendly.
There was a disturbing lack of cleanliness, including a moldy Halloween pumpkin left in the grandmother's room. The meals were inconsistent and not fresh, often resembling prepackaged Costco box meals. The owner was absentee and the only trained RN, delegating narcotics and daily medications to untrained staff. A staff member frequently spent time sleeping on the couch or using a phone while residents were attended to. COVID visitation policies were overly restrictive, effectively turning visits into a porch-only arrangement and were applied unevenly. Basic safety precautions were ignored: no masks, gloves, or hand sanitizer between visiting patients, and no consistent hand-washing before handling food or medication. Visitation restrictions were extended beyond CDC guidelines and were sometimes enacted due to PPE costs, culminating in a total ban on visits weeks before the grandmother's death. The grandmother died alone due to the owner's lack of compassion, and the facility was described as a "horror house" or a senior-living prison.A detailed account unfolds from a metro-area senior care setting that, on the surface, appears to be a picturesque and friendly place, with landscapes and staff that seem welcoming. The narrator opens by acknowledging the beauty of the location and the cordial demeanor of the staff, but quickly emphasizes that those positives can't compensate for a troubling and persistent stream of problems. The overall impression conveyed is that the facility's outward charm was undermined by ongoing concerns that affected a beloved family member, particularly the grandmother at the center of the experience.
Cleanliness emerges as a recurring issue, casting a shadow over the care provided. While the rooms were described as "mostly clean," the reviewer notes multiple occasions where cleanliness appeared severely lacking. A striking and specific example involved a Halloween pumpkin left to rot in the grandmother's room long enough to become moldy. This episode is presented not as an isolated oddity but as part of a broader pattern of neglect in cleanliness that the author repeatedly observed. The cumulative effect was a sense of discomfort and worry about basic hygiene and maintenance.
Food quality and consistency are criticized as well, described as a constant problem that intersected with questions of nutrition and appropriateness. According to the account, the grandmother was fed, but the meals were described as bizarre and misaligned with typical expectations for senior care dining. There are concrete anecdotes - such as pancakes and a hotdog being served for dinner on one occasion, and breakfast and lunch items appearing at dinner more than once. The reviewer frames the food as being far from fresh, suggesting instead that what was served relied on prepackaged, mass-produced options that bore little relation to fresh, wholesome meals one might expect in such a setting.
A separate but related strand concerns governance, supervision, and the level of professional oversight. The owner is portrayed as largely absentee, with only one trained registered nurse on site who delegates narcotics and daily medication delivery to staff who may not be adequately trained. The account describes at least one staff member who spent much of her time sleeping on a couch or scrolling on her phone, reinforcing a perception of lax supervision and management. The impact of these dynamics during the COVID era is starkly drawn, with the facility described as taking on a "warden of a Sr. living prison" posture rather than a supportive care environment. Visitation was severely restricted - initially limited to porch visits - and the author describes a sense of isolation and strain as families attempted to maintain connection with their loved ones through outside spaces and phone conversations.
The physical and procedural environment during visits adds another layer of concern. The narrator recounts that the staff would run a dryer during family visits, creating hot air and lint that would blow onto the food and even the children present. This repeated disruption forced the family to intervene, including a moment when the writer had to go to the side of the house to turn off the breaker to stop the dryer. Such anecdotes contribute to a broader impression of distractions, safety concerns, and a care environment that didn't appear to prioritize clean, safe, and comfortable contact between residents and their visitors.
Visitation policies themselves are described as shifting and inconsistently applied, with a door sign explicitly barring all visitors and healthcare workers at certain times. The reviewer notes that a year later, visitation restrictions exceeded common CDC guidelines for many facilities, yet were not uniformly applied to all residents. Some residents continued to receive family access for hair and nail appointments, while others were completely cut off from visitors and healthcare workers. A particularly painful point came a week before the grandmother's passing, when the owner barred all visitations from all families in all of her homes, citing PPE cost and availability as the reason. Throughout this period, staff were alleged to flout safety precautions - no masks, gloves, or hand sanitizer between patients and meals, with PPE requirements seemingly inconsistently enforced and not always observed by staff who moved between rooms and duties. The account also notes a troubling moment when a staff member invited the author's seven-year-old daughter to visit, only for the owner to intervene and threaten to end visitation entirely if the child returned.
The culmination of these experiences is presented with a strong sense of loss and frustration. The grandmother ultimately passed away with little to no contact from friends or family, largely due to the perceived deficiencies and policy decisions of the facility's leadership. The narrator states that efforts to address the issues with the Ombudsman and California licensing came too late to alter the outcome, and the ensuing impression is that compassion and responsive care were in short supply. The final exhortation is a clear warning: stay away from this setting if one's peace of mind hinges on compassionate, attentive elder care.
Taken together, the account paints a portrait of a care facility where aesthetic appeal and friendly staff did not align with the day-to-day realities experienced by a grieving family. The assertions touch on cleanliness lapses, questionable food quality, uneven professional oversight, and, most decisively for the family, visitation policies that constrained vital human connections during a time of vulnerability. While these points are presented from a single perspective, they collectively present a narrative that underscores the importance of stringent oversight, transparent operations, and truly person-centered care in settings entrusted with vulnerable residents.
6 resident community capacity
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.
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 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 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.
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
Meadows (6 miles away)
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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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. 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 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. 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 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.A Golden Heart Family Care in Bakersfield, CA, is an assisted living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The dining room provides a comfortable space for residents to enjoy delicious meals prepared by the staff. Each living space is fully furnished, ensuring that residents feel at home and have all their needs met. A beautiful garden and outdoor space are available for residents to relax, socialize, or partake in outdoor activities.
Housekeeping services are provided to ensure that each resident's living area remains clean and tidy. Move-in coordination is also offered to make the transition into the community as smooth as possible. Residents can stay connected with family and friends with access to telephone service and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet.
Care services at A Golden Heart Family Care include assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Health care providers are coordinated with to ensure that each resident receives appropriate medical care. Special dietary restrictions, including diabetes diets, are catered for during meal preparation and service. Medication management is also provided for residents who require assistance in managing their medications.
Transportation arrangements for medical appointments are made by the community, ensuring that residents can easily access necessary healthcare services. Additionally, transportation is available for other outings or errands as needed.
Residents can enjoy scheduled daily activities that promote socialization and engagement within the community. Nearby amenities include cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals - providing easy access to various conveniences and recreational opportunities.
A Golden Heart Family Care offers a welcoming environment where residents receive personalized care while enjoying a range of amenities and nearby attractions in Bakersfield.
A Golden Heart Family Care is located at 13402 Giro Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93314 in Kern County, California
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Medicare Coverage for Assisted Living: An In-Depth Exploration
Medicare does not cover assisted living costs, as it focuses on acute medical needs and short-term care, with exceptions for certain medically necessary services like physical therapy. Individuals must explore other options such as Medicaid, veterans' benefits, or long-term care insurance to manage these expenses effectively.
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Choosing between assisted living and nursing homes involves evaluating emotional and financial factors, with assisted living offering independence and support for daily activities at a lower cost, while nursing homes provide intensive medical care for individuals with significant health needs. The decision is influenced by personal preferences, health status, cognitive function, and varying Medicaid coverage across states.
