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 facility is described as a horror house with zero compassion for residents. The owner is portrayed as absentee and the only trained RN, delegating narcotics and daily medications to untrained staff. A staff member reportedly spent most of the time sleeping on a couch or using her phone while on duty. Visitation was severely restricted for almost a year, isolating residents from family and friends. Safety and hygiene practices were inconsistently applied, with no masks or hand sanitizer and lax food-handling during visits. The meals were not fresh, often consisting of prepackaged box meals and unusual combinations (e.g., breakfast and lunch foods for dinner). Cleanliness issues included a moldy Halloween pumpkin left in a grandmother's room.Almarie Guest Home in Bakersfield, CA is best suited for families seeking a small, home-like setting where the atmosphere feels intimate and the location offers everyday comfort. The property can deliver a pleasant first impression and a personal touch from staff, which can translate into meaningful moments of companionship and routine for a resident with light care needs. It is not, however, a match for those counting on reliable clinical oversight, strict cleanliness standards, or a consistently professional operations model.
Those considering alternatives should note that this community may not meet the requirements of residents with medical complexity, strict medication routines, or significant safety concerns. Families needing on-site nursing oversight, regular medical monitoring, or rigorous infection-control practices should pursue facilities with verifiable RN availability and stronger governance. For residents who rely on predictable meal quality, transparent staffing, and documented visitation policies, the drawbacks here could quickly become disruptive, making other options worth exploring.
The most tangible positives lie in the setting and the demeanor of the staff. The location's appeal and the appearance of the building contribute to a welcoming, homelike vibe that can ease transitions for some seniors. When vitality and social interaction are the goal, friendly aides and routine check-ins can offer comfort and companionship. These strengths create a sense of belonging during the day and can help with mood and engagement, which matters for overall quality of life.
Yet the negatives are substantive and hard to overlook. Reports describe repeated lapses in cleanliness, including neglectful housekeeping that allows obvious cues of decay in the living space. Food quality is a recurrent concern, with meals that feel inconsistent and not fresh, often relying on prepackaged options rather than freshly prepared fare. The most troubling issues center on medication delivery and staffing: the owner is described as absentee with control over medications devolved to staff lacking proper training, raising red flags about safety and accountability. During a family crisis, these problems escalated into allegations of neglect and poor communication, underscoring a risk profile that cannot be ignored.
In weighing the pros against the cons, the warmth of staff and the home-like atmosphere can provide daily comfort but does not compensate for persistent care and safety gaps. For residents who require only light supervision and whose families can stay actively involved, the positives may offer enough continuity of care to justify consideration. For anyone with higher medical needs, or for families seeking dependable clinical oversight and consistently clean, nutritious living conditions, these deficiencies are decisive factors that push the facility toward the wrong side of the balance.
Ultimately, a clear recommendation emerges: proceed only with thorough due diligence and explicit, verifiable assurances. If still drawn to Almarie Guest Home, demand frequent, documented nursing involvement, a concrete meal plan with fresh options, strict housekeeping schedules, and a transparent visitation and safety policy that applies equally to all residents. Speak to licensure and regulatory bodies, request uncensored references from current families, and arrange multiple on-site visits at different times to observe staff responsiveness and resident dignity in practice. For most families, however, exploring alternatives that provide stronger clinical governance, higher cleanliness standards, and more consistent resident-centered care will yield greater peace of mind and safer, more predictable daily life.
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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