1525 Sugarleaf Ridge Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93311
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The location is beautiful. The staff are friendly.
The rooms were not kept clean, with a disturbing lack of cleanliness including a moldy Halloween pumpkin left in the grandmother's room. The food was inconsistent and not fresh, sometimes served as breakfast and lunch items for dinner, with examples like pancakes and a hot dog for dinner. The owner was absentee and delegated narcotic and daily medication delivery to untrained staff; at times staff were seen sleeping or on their phones. COVID visitation restrictions effectively turned the facility into a prison-like environment, with porch-only visits for nearly a year and unequal visitation rules among residents. Safety precautions were not followed; there were no masks, gloves, or hand sanitizer during visits, and staff moved between residents without proper hygiene. A sign barred all visitors and healthcare workers, and PPE cost was cited later as the reason to maintain visitation restrictions, including a week before the grandmother's death. The reviewer states the grandmother died alone due to the owner's actions and lack of compassion. Attempts to escalate concerns to the Ombudsman and licensing agencies were made, but the issues were not resolved in time.The setting itself is striking - a beautiful location with a staff that, at first glance, feels friendly and accommodating. That initial impression, however, quickly gives way to a far more troubling reality. What begins as a pleasant-sounding description dissolves into a series of troubling experiences that cast a long shadow over the overall impression of the place. The reviewer acknowledges the outward charm and the kindness of some workers, but emphasizes that those positives are overwhelmed by systemic problems that affect the daily life of the residents, especially one elderly family member.
Cleanliness, a basic standard in any care facility, emerges as a consistent source of concern. The reviewer notes that while the rooms were kept mostly clean, there were repeated and disturbing lapses in cleanliness that could not be ignored. A stark example is the presence of a Halloween pumpkin left to rot for so long that it became moldy in the grandmother's room. This single detail becomes a symbol of a broader pattern - attention to basic sanitary conditions appears insufficient, and the environment can feel neglected even when it is described as "mostly clean."
Food, another critical area of care, is described as a constant problem. Although the grandmother was fed, the meals were described as bizarre and ill-suited to nutritious, balanced daily care. There were occasions when breakfast and lunch foods appeared for dinner, and on one night the grandmother reportedly had pancakes and a hotdog for dinner. The reviewer challenges the notion of freshness, implying that what was served resembled prepackaged Costco box meals rather than freshly prepared, wholesome options. The overall impression is that meals were inconsistent and lacked the quality and thoughtfulness expected in a care setting.
The facility's leadership and staffing practices contribute significantly to the problematic portrait painted by the reviewer. The owner is described as absentee and, crucially, as the only trained registered nurse in the operation. She delegated the delivery of narcotics and daily medications to staff who were not trained for those responsibilities. The reviewer recalls a staff member who spent much of the time sleeping on a couch or playing on her phone, highlighting concerns about attentiveness and accountability. The COVID-19 period is characterized as a drastic transformation - from a hands-off owner to a "warden" of a senior living environment - where visitation was heavily restricted and the atmosphere grew increasingly punitive rather than supportive.
Visitation policies during the pandemic become a focal point of the critique, framed as a stark mismatch between stated guidelines and actual practice. For almost a year, visits were limited to porch encounters, with families bringing meals that were consumed on the porch while the resident sat inside the dining room. The staff is described as making these visits difficult by running the dryer, which blew hot air and lint onto food and children. A sign on the door reportedly barred all visitors, including healthcare workers, and visitation restrictions reportedly persisted well beyond CDC recommendations, with some residents receiving family access for personal needs while others were completely cut off. The reviewer notes that a year later the owner continued to apply restrictions unevenly across residents, reflecting a troubling inconsistency in policy application.
The most painful consequences of these policies are personal and intimate. A week before the grandmother's passing in April 2021, the owner reportedly barred all visitations for all families in all of her homes, citing the cost and availability of PPE as a justification for COVID precautions, even though staff reportedly did not adhere to basic safety practices when visiting (no masks, gloves, or hand sanitizer, and no handwashing between caring for different residents or preparing food and medications). A staff member even invited the reviewer's seven-year-old daughter for a visit, only for the owner to intervene by threatening to cut off all visitation if the child returned. The reviewer describes a sense of abandonment and fear, eventually turning to the Ombudsman and California licensing in an attempt to advocate for their loved one - an effort that, in their view, arrived too late to change the outcome. The grandmother ultimately died alone, without the comfort of friends or family, a consequence the reviewer attributes directly to the owner's policies and approach.
In closing, the reviewer characterizes the facility as a place of beautiful surroundings and otherwise friendly staff overshadowed by what they describe as a pattern of neglect, mismanagement, and disregard for compassionate care. The call is stark and unequivocal: stay away from this "horror house" if one seeks a sense of peace and assurance that compassion remains a priority in care. The story serves as a warning about what can happen when governance, safety, and everyday kindness are compromised, and it ends with a memorable, poignant appeal to potential relatives and guardians to prioritize humane, attentive care over appearances or convenience.
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.
Board and Care HomeBoard and care homes provide a smaller, more intimate setting for seniors who require assistance with daily tasks but do not need the level of care offered by a nursing home. They offer personalized care, meals, and social activities in a homelike environment, ensuring that seniors receive individualized attention and support 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 (8 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.Almarie Guest Home in Bakersfield, CA is a board and care home offering personalized care services and a range of amenities to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents.
Residents at Almarie Guest Home can enjoy meals in the dining room, which provides a comfortable and communal atmosphere for socializing with other residents. The community is fully furnished, providing a hassle-free move-in experience for seniors. Additionally, there is an outdoor space where residents can relax and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine.
Housekeeping services are provided to ensure that the living environment remains clean and tidy. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet is available throughout the community, allowing residents to stay connected with friends and family online.
The dedicated caregivers at Almarie Guest Home provide assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. They also coordinate with health care providers to ensure that all medical needs are met. Management of medications is provided to help residents stay on track with their prescriptions. Special dietary restrictions, including diabetes diets, are accommodated for during meal preparation and service.
Transportation arrangements are available for medical appointments, ensuring that residents can easily access necessary healthcare services. There are also nearby cafes, parks, pharmacies, restaurants, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals within close proximity to Almarie Guest Home.
In addition to these essential services and amenities, Almarie Guest Home offers scheduled daily activities to engage residents mentally, physically, and socially.
Overall, Almarie Guest Home provides a caring and supportive environment where seniors can receive personalized assistance while maintaining their independence and enjoying a range of amenities nearby.
Almarie Guest Home is located at 1525 Sugarleaf Ridge Drive, Bakersfield, CA 93311 in Kern County, California
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