Cristine's Guest Home III

1312 Nogal Drive, Salinas, CA 93905

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

3.8 from 19 reviews
5 stars
12
4 stars
2
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 stars
5

Assisted Living Board and Care Home

Overall Review of Cristine's Guest Home III

Pros

  • pro The staff made the tour experience amazing for the dad.
  • pro The medtech and caregivers knew Bob's situation and treated him with care, patience, and respect.
  • pro The staff and administration were approachable at all times.
  • pro They were able to visit and feed Bob in the patio, and the Garden Room was provided in bad weather.
  • pro Kitchen staff Jessica, Andre, and Veronica served and attended to Bob's needs.
  • pro Tom provided Bob's transportation with care, respect, and patience.
  • pro Vista Harden Ranch offered a wonderful experience for the mother, with health improving due to exemplary support and care.
  • pro The environment at Vista Harden Ranch was expert and very supportive, with affordable pricing and caring staff.
  • pro Emeritus at Harden Ranch had professional, kind, compassionate, and understanding staff who guided families through the transition.
  • pro New arrivals to Vista Harden Ranch were warmly greeted by staff who felt like family.

Cons

  • pro The management is awful and there is zero communication.
  • pro There are supply shortages forcing residents to use other residents' supplies after notifying management.
  • pro The memory-care furnishings are disgusting and the place smells bad.
  • pro Night shifts are understaffed, with only 2?3 employees for 50 residents.
  • pro Payroll issues include missing hours and inconsistent pay.
  • pro Not all the staff are vaccinated.
  • pro The facility is overpriced for the quality of service.
  • pro Joy is worthless.

Review

Families sharing experiences about Harden Ranch facilities report a mix of warmth, dedication, and challenges, all woven into the everyday reality of long-term care. On the most luminous days, visitors describe an environment where the people at the heart of the operation - caregivers, medtechs, kitchen staff, and drivers - create meaningful moments for residents and families alike. One family member recounted a tour that felt like a special experience for their dad, noting that meeting the staff, especially the people who would be part of their dad's daily life, made the trip memorable. The staff made the tour feel personal and reassuring, and the family-member's excitement about future collaboration with the team highlighted a sense of partnership that families often seek when choosing care for a loved one.

In a deeply personal routine, a son who visited his brother Bob every week for four years described a care team that truly understood Bob's needs. The medtech Catia and the caregivers are singled out as being tuned in to Bob's situation, handling it with patience, care, and respect. The family emphasized the staff's approachability - both the caregiving team and the administration were accessible at all times. The visits to Bob in the patio, and the option to move to the Garden Room when the weather wasn't hospitable, painted a picture of a facility that offered continuity of life and space for family moments. Even the kitchen staff - Jessica, Andre, and Veronica - were acknowledged for serving with attentiveness to Bob's needs during those visits, while Thomas's transportation services were described as patient and respectful, underscoring a holistic sense of support that extended beyond basic care.

Another thread in these narratives centers on a mother who lived at Vista Harden Ranch for two years. The experience there was described as wonderful, with health improvements attributed to the supportive environment and exemplary care. The writer emphasized an expert, supportive atmosphere and affordable pricing, concluding with a strong recommendation for the facility. This perspective highlights how high-quality daily care, staff engagement, and accessible pricing can combine to create a positive, transformative impact on a resident's health and well-being.

The reviews are not uniform, however. A contrasting voice comes from an ex-employee who expressed frustration with management and internal operations. This account described a lack of communication, frequent supply shortages, and concerns about memory-care conditions, including odors and a perception of disorganization. The critique extended to staffing on the night shift, with claims that there were too few employees for the number of residents, and pointed to payroll issues - missing money, hours that didn't match clock-ins, and dependence on HR for adjustments. The reviewer warned about the clock-in system and ADP, urging current staff to verify their hours, painting a picture of a work environment where systemic issues affected morale and operations.

Further negative sentiments touched on disorganization, short-staffing, and a perception that owners and managers showed little interest in the quality of care. The phrase "If you want to be constantly annoyed, this is the spot for you" captured a frustration with day-to-day experiences that can deeply influence a family's sense of security and trust. Yet within the same broad set of reviews, there are countervailing notes that reveal a more nuanced picture: some families described strong, welcoming interactions with staff and an impression of thorough, compassionate care, while others criticized management and vaccination practices.

For some families, the experience was more mixed but still hopeful. One reviewer affirmed that Vista Harden Ranch could be recommended for families seeking a facility for a loved one, citing extremely positive treatment in every interaction, high-quality care, and reasonable pricing - an important consideration for many families navigating care costs. But another reviewer offered a stark reversal, saying they would give zero stars due to management shortcomings, with specific mention of Joy and concerns about vaccination status among staff. These competing perspectives illustrate how individual interactions, particular staff, and the evolving leadership of a facility can shape a family's overall impression in divergent ways.

There are stories of renewal and improvement as well. A reviewer who spoke of arriving to Vista Harden with a sense of apprehension found a different reality: a new owner had taken the helm, and that change brought warmth and a sense of family. The account described being warmly greeted, encountering loving, kind, and engaged staff, and witnessing happy residents and families. The sentiment was that this new direction created a community where a mom could thrive, a hopeful arc that suggests potential for positive transformation in the wake of leadership changes.

Interwoven with these experiences is a final, heartfelt note about Emeritus at Harden Ranch. Families facing the daunting process of transitioning a loved one found the staff there to be professional, kind, compassionate, and understanding. Joan and Dina were highlighted for guiding families through the emotional preparation required to move a parent into care, while also supporting the resident's smooth adjustment. The first days and weeks showed a tangible improvement in the mother's engagement, with activities that became part of daily life and a sense that she might not want to be anywhere else shortly after moving in. The overall message was one of gratitude and a strong recommendation for Emeritus at Harden Ranch as a place where residents can find meaningful activity and families can feel confident in the care provided.

Taken together, these reviews sketch a landscape of Harden Ranch that is deeply human. The strongest themes center on the everyday acts of care - the way a medtech or a caregiver learns a resident's rhythms, the way kitchen and transportation staff quietly support comfort and dignity, and the way family members form a partnership with the people delivering care. They also reveal the enduring truth that management, staffing levels, communication, and organizational health profoundly shape the lived reality of residents and their families. Some experiences glow with warmth and gratitude, while others cry out for better systems and leadership. The common thread is that, despite the challenges, there remains a core of committed professionals and moments of genuine connection that familieshope to find when they entrust their loved ones to care.

Features

Housing

  • 6 resident community capacity 6 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living 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 Home 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.

Amenities

  • Cable or satellite TV 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 room 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 furnished 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.
  • Garden 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 services 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 coordination 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 space 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.
  • Telephone 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 available 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.

Transportation

  • Monterey Peninsula (15 miles away) Monterey Peninsula (15 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour supervision 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 assistance 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 bathing 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 dressing 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 transfers 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 providers 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 diet 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 service 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 management 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 restrictions 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 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 appointments 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.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet 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 restrictions 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.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities 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 activities 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.

Description

Cristine's Guest Home III in Salinas, CA, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere for those seeking a supportive assisted living environment. This board and care home is designed to provide personalized care while promoting independence and a sense of community among its residents.

The home features a variety of amenities that enhance the living experience, including a spacious dining room where residents enjoy nutritious meals prepared to accommodate special dietary restrictions. The fully furnished accommodations are complemented by beautiful outdoor spaces and lush gardens, ideal for relaxation and social interaction. Housekeeping services ensure that the living environment remains clean and comfortable, while move-in coordination helps new residents transition smoothly into their new home.

Care services at Cristine’s Guest Home III focus on assisting with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. Residents benefit from coordinated medical support through regular communication with healthcare providers, ensuring their health needs are met effectively. Specialized services include diabetes management, medication management, and transportation arrangements for medical appointments.

In addition to essential care services, residents can engage in scheduled daily activities that promote socialization and mental stimulation. Located conveniently near local cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, hospitals, and public transportation options, Cristine’s Guest Home III ensures that residents have access to all the resources they need in their daily lives.

With its commitment to quality care and resident well-being in a nurturing environment, Cristine's Guest Home III is an excellent choice for individuals seeking both support and companionship in their later years.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • Burger King (0.8 miles)
  • McDonald's (1.6 miles)
  • Subway (1.6 miles)
  • In-N-Out Burger (2 miles)
  • Jack In The Box (2.3 miles)
  • MOD Pizza (2.8 miles)
  • Black Bear Diner Salinas (3.2 miles)

Physicians

  • Laurel Internal Medicine (1 miles)
  • Oppenheim Peter MD (1.2 miles)
  • Internal Medicine (1.2 miles)
  • Salinas Family Practice (1.4 miles)
  • Salinas Valley Primecare Medical Group (2.8 miles)
  • Rolando Cabrera Md A M (2.9 miles)
  • Albert Brian Doornik (2.9 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Souza, Bob Alisal Drug Store (1.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.3 miles)
  • Care Pharmacies (2.3 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.5 miles)
  • Safeway Pharmacy (2.6 miles)
  • AllCare Pharmacy (2.9 miles)

Parks

  • El Dorado Park (1.8 miles)
  • Tatum's Garden Fully Inclusive Accessible Playground (2 miles)
  • Fremont Peak State Park (7.5 miles)
  • Manzanita County Park (8.2 miles)
  • Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (12.3 miles)
  • Fort Ord Dunes State Park (13.9 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (2.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.3 miles)
  • Starbucks (10.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (11.2 miles)
  • Panera Bread (13.8 miles)

Transportation

  • Amtrak (2.8 miles)

Hospitals

  • Evergreen At Salinas (3.1 miles)
  • Salinas Surgery Center (3.1 miles)
  • Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System (3.2 miles)
  • Dr Mary Garren, MD (13.8 miles)

Places of Worship

  • Old Mission San Juan Bautista (11.1 miles)
  • Church of the Good Shepherd (12.4 miles)

Theaters

  • Century Marina And Xd (11.4 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Cristine's Guest Home III?

Nearby Communities

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