Riverwalk

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  • Interior

    A well-lit dining room with neatly set tables and menus displayed.

  • Decor

    A cozy living room with a sofa, armchair, and warm lighting.

  • Building

    A grand entrance to a building with palm trees lining the driveway under a clear blue sky.

  • Bedroom

    A cozy and well-decorated bedroom with a neatly made bed, bedside tables with lamps, and artwork above the headboard.

  • Trees

    A sunny outdoor area featuring a swimming pool and hot tub surrounded by trees.

  • Windows

    A cozy dining area with wooden furniture and warm lighting.

  • Kitchen

    Modern kitchen with wood cabinets and stainless steel appliances.

  • Seating Area

    A spacious lobby with comfortable seating, a grand piano, and elegant decor.

Riverwalk

350 Calloway Drive, Building C, Bakersfield, CA 93312

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

2.7 from 100 reviews
5 stars
33
4 stars
10
3 stars
4
2 stars
3
1 stars
50

Skilled Nursing Facility

Overall Review of Riverwalk

Pros

  • pro Jeff and his staff have been great to work with.
  • pro Jeff leads with a compassionate and empathetic approach to everything with residents and staff.
  • pro Martha and the team at Brookdale in Bakersfield are wonderful!
  • pro After a little adjustment to new surroundings boy did she shine!
  • pro The staff really got her out and about, joining activities and she found a new zest for life.
  • pro The medical team kept good tabs on her needs, and even managed the Dr. Appointments and arranged transportation.
  • pro The staff is excellent in encouraging and explaining your Different types of treatment.
  • pro My father is in memory care only because he is a bad fall risk due to a major stroke. His brain is still all there though. He can communicate his needs and wants well.

Cons

  • pro The facility was described as understaffed, undertrained, overpriced, and dismissive when concerns were raised.
  • pro Residents reportedly waited long after pressing call buttons, sometimes over an hour, with families needing to intervene.
  • pro Essential care tasks such as showers, dressing, and basic hygiene were not consistently provided.
  • pro Families were not promptly notified about emergencies, health events, or hospital visits affecting their loved ones.
  • pro The center allegedly enforced a 90?day notice and charged over $16,000 when families moved their loved ones.
  • pro Medication administration was unreliable and included near-miss errors, despite staff oversight.
  • pro Residents were left in soiled clothing or neglected, with accounts of abuse by staff and little disciplinary action.
  • pro In Memory Care, call strings did not trigger timely responses, and calls from certain areas were ignored.

Review

Within Brookdale Bakersfield, families describe a deeply mixed experience that ranges from genuine appreciation for compassionate staff to alarming allegations of neglect, mismanagement, and outsized costs. The reviews collectively sketch a landscape where some residents seem to be treated with care and attention, while others report long delays, insufficient staffing, and a pattern of communication gaps that leave families feeling unheard and anxious about loved ones' safety. The tension between sincere, person-centered care and ongoing operational and financial frustrations colors every anecdote, making a clear, uniform verdict hard to find.

One of the most detailed and impassioned accounts comes from LeAnne Organista and Lori Harl, RN, who describe a four-month period in which their father lived at Brookdale. They lay out a stark cost breakdown: thousands paid monthly for rent, plus hundreds for escorts to meals, assistance with dressing, basic showers, and medication administration, as well as extra charges for meals delivered to the room. Yet they recount a troubling pattern of care that did not correspond to the price: only four showers in four months, clothes worn for days, and frequent delays in responding to call buttons - sometimes so long that family members themselves had to intervene. They recount a serious health event, a seizure with soiled clothing left in the bathroom sink, and a dangerously low blood pressure reading that was only halted by an RN who stepped in to stop a potential medication error. They describe being notified of emergencies only after hospital calls, the emergence of a pressure sore, and not being informed about their father's nosebleed or severe health episodes. The couple argues that Brookdale was understaffed, undertrained, and dismissive when concerns were raised, and they recount a 90-day notice dispute in which Brookdale attempted to collect over $16,000 as they moved their father to another facility. Their conclusion is scathing: families deserve to know the truth, and no loved one should endure neglect while "others profit off their care." They call on prospective residents to probe staffing ratios, response times, bathing frequency, and family notifications before deciding to entrust Brookdale with a loved one's care.

Amid these grave concerns, another stream of the narrative highlights positive experiences, illustrating that Brookdale can also be a source of comfort and safety when things go well. A family member lauds "Martha and the team at Brookdale in Bakersfield" as wonderful, noting that their 93-year-old aunt, initially hesitant about moving, soon thrived after a period of adjustment. They describe a staff that encouraged participation in activities, helped her access medical appointments, and arranged transportation, which brought relief to the family who could rest knowing she "was safe 24/7." Another reviewer emphasizes the value of dedicated medical coordination, feeling grateful that the team kept close tabs on her aunt's needs and made the process of attending doctor visits and arranging transportation much easier. In these stories, Brookdale's strengths appear to lie in sincere staff engagement, activity programming, and practical support with medical logistics.

However, other voices raise serious red flags about the quality and consistency of care, notably in the memory care environment. Cathy Beserra, who recently left Brookdale Bakersfield, accuses several CNAs of laziness, meanness, and rudeness, and she singles out one aide who went "out of her way" to help residents while others did not. More troubling is an account of alleged abuse by a CNA, including being hit with a sheet and claims of administrative inaction or insufficient discipline when addressing the incident. Beserra's testimony paints a culture of fear and insufficient accountability, suggesting that neglect and inattention could coexist with otherwise standard daily routines. Her account underscores a fearsome gap between the care some families expect and the behavior of certain staff members, raising questions about staff supervision and incident response.

Further testimony centers on the pricing and the perceived value of care. One reviewer describes a family's struggle with entrenched costs: monthly rent around $5,100, plus a separate $841 monthly charge for medications, with additional grievances about meds going missing or being administered late. The reviewer also complains about a rent increase that ultimately made continued residence untenable. While this family acknowledges some positive aspects like staff friendliness and engaging activities, they insist that the financial burden did not align with the level of care received, prompting their decision to move their loved one elsewhere.

Other narratives emphasize alarming patient-care failures that touch on essential daily needs. A reviewer recounts a father in memory care who could not rely on call light responses, with experiences of missed assistance during toileting and dehydration contributing to a urinary tract infection and a critical blood sugar reading. They describe inconsistent pain management, with frequent changes in medication frequency, and a broader sense that residents with significant self-care challenges were not being adequately supported. In these accounts, the emphasis is on the gap between the facility's promises and the day-to-day realities of ensuring basic comfort, safety, and medical oversight for vulnerable residents.

Taken together, the reviews at Brookdale Bakersfield reflect a spectrum of experiences that speak to broader concerns about staffing adequacy, training, and the true transparency of communication with families. On one hand, there are credible testimonials to compassionate, attentive staff, well-coordinated medical care, and meaningful resident engagement that provide a sense of security for families. On the other hand, persistent allegations of delayed responses to call buttons, missed or late medications, dehydration, pressure sores, and alleged abuse in the memory care unit cannot be dismissed. The intersection of high costs, contract terms such as strict notice periods, and complaints about how funds are allocated for staff bonuses or special events further complicates families' trust in the facility.

For families considering Brookdale Bakersfield, these narratives offer a nuanced set of considerations. If you're evaluating the community, it may be prudent to inquire deeply about staffing ratios and turnover, the average time to respond to calls, the frequency of personal care tasks such as bathing and clothing changes, and how emergencies are communicated to families. Understanding how medications are managed, how care plans are updated, and how staff are supervised and coached could illuminate whether your loved one's daily care will align with your expectations. It may also be wise to review contract terms and understand what warranties or protections exist if care quality falls short, as well as to verify state inspection records and resident satisfaction data. In the end, Brookdale Bakersfield appears to offer a mixed picture: moments of compassionate, professional care juxtaposed with experiences that are alarming and difficult, underscoring the critical importance of vigilance, open communication, and ongoing oversight when seeking long-term care for a loved one.

Features

Housing

  • 120 resident community capacity 120 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • Beauty salon Beauty salonBeauty salons are important for seniors because they provide a space for them to feel pampered, socialize, and maintain their personal grooming and hygiene. Regular visits to a beauty salon can help boost seniors' self-esteem and overall well-being.
  • 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.
  • Computer center Computer centerA computer center is essential for seniors as it provides access to technology, communication tools, and resources that can enhance their daily lives. It allows them to stay connected with loved ones, engage in online activities, and learn new skills, ultimately promoting socialization and mental stimulation.
  • 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.
  • Fitness room Fitness roomHaving a fitness room in a senior living community is essential for seniors to stay active, maintain their physical health, and improve their overall well-being. Regular exercise can help prevent falls, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote mental sharpness. It also provides social opportunities for residents to connect with others and enjoy a sense of community.
  • 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.
  • Gaming room Gaming roomGaming rooms are important for seniors as they provide a fun and engaging environment for socializing, cognitive stimulation, and physical activity. Games can improve memory, problem-solving skills, and overall mental well-being while fostering friendships and reducing feelings of isolation.
  • 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.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • 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.
  • Private bathrooms Private bathroomsPrivate bathrooms are important for seniors in senior living communities because they provide independence, dignity, and comfort. Having a private bathroom allows seniors to maintain their personal hygiene routines without the need for assistance, promoting a sense of autonomy and privacy. Additionally, private bathrooms help prevent the spread of infections and provide a safe and clean environment for seniors to navigate safely.
  • Restaurant-style dining Restaurant-style diningRestaurant-style dining is important for seniors because it allows them to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals in a social and upscale setting. This enhances their dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and fosters socialization with fellow residents, ultimately contributing to their overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Small library Small librarySmall libraries are important for seniors as they provide access to a variety of reading materials, including books, newspapers, and magazines. This can help stimulate their minds, keep them engaged, and provide a sense of community through book clubs and other social activities. Additionally, reading has been shown to improve cognitive function and overall mental well-being in older adults.
  • 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.
  • Wellness center Wellness centerWellness centers are important for seniors because they offer a variety of programs and services that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being. These centers provide opportunities for exercise, socialization, education, and relaxation, helping seniors maintain their overall health and quality of life.
  • 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

  • Meadows (6 miles away) Meadows (6 miles away)
  • Community operated transportation Community operated transportationCommunity operated transportation is crucial for seniors as it provides them with the means to access essential services, social activities, and medical appointments. It allows seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life by ensuring they can participate in activities outside of their homes. Additionally, community-operated transportation services offer a safe and reliable way for seniors to travel without having to rely on family or friends for assistance.
  • Transportation arrangement Transportation arrangementTransportation arrangements are crucial for seniors as they may face challenges with driving, mobility, or access to public transportation. Having reliable transportation services ensures that seniors can easily attend appointments, social activities, and maintain their independence and quality of life.
  • Transportation arrangement (non-medical) Transportation arrangement (non-medical)Transportation arrangements are essential for seniors as they provide access to essential services, activities, and social interactions outside the home. This service helps maintain independence, mobility, and overall well-being for seniors who may have limited transportation options.
  • 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, promoting their health and well-being. It allows them to receive timely treatment, monitor existing conditions, and address any new health concerns efficiently. Additionally, transportation services can help seniors maintain their independence and quality of life by enabling them to stay connected with their healthcare providers.

Care Services

  • 12-16 hour nursing 12-16 hour nursing12-16 hour nursing care is crucial for seniors in order to ensure around-the-clock monitoring, timely medication administration, and prompt response to any health concerns or emergencies. This level of care helps to promote the overall well-being and safety of seniors living in senior living communities.
  • 24-hour call system 24-hour call system24-hour call systems are important for seniors because they provide peace of mind and immediate assistance in case of emergencies. This technology ensures that help is always available, promoting safety and security for elderly individuals living alone or in assisted living facilities.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Mental wellness program Mental wellness programMental wellness programs are essential for seniors as they promote cognitive stimulation, emotional support, and social engagement. These programs help prevent isolation, depression, and cognitive decline, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for older adults.
  • 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.

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.
  • Concierge services Concierge servicesConcierge services are essential for seniors as they provide assistance with daily tasks and errands, enhance their quality of life by offering convenience and personalized care, and promote a sense of safety and security.
  • Fitness programs Fitness programsFitness programs are crucial for seniors as they help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall well-being. Staying active can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and enhance quality of life in older adults.
  • Planned day trips Planned day tripsPlanned day trips are important for seniors because they offer opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. They provide a change of scenery and help seniors stay engaged and connected to their community, promoting overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Resident-run activities Resident-run activitiesResident-run activities are important for seniors as they encourage social interaction, creativity, and a sense of autonomy. These activities empower seniors to stay engaged and active in their community while fostering meaningful connections with their peers.
  • 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

The Riverwalk Assisted Living Community in Bakersfield, CA offers a range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The community features a beauty salon for pampering, as well as cable or satellite TV for entertainment. Residents can enjoy convenient transportation provided by the community for various needs, including trips to doctors' appointments. A computer center is available for technology access, while a small library offers a quiet place for reading.

Daily living activities are made easier with assistance provided by staff, including help with bathing, dressing, and transfers. Medication management and special dietary restrictions are also taken care of by trained professionals. The dining experience is restaurant-style, with meals prepared and served according to dietary needs.

Residents have access to various recreational spaces, including an outdoor garden and fitness room. For socializing and leisure activities, there is a gaming room and resident-run activities. Planned day trips allow residents to explore the surrounding area while concierge services provide additional convenience.

The community is conveniently located near two cafes, four parks, 15 pharmacies, 36 physicians, 37 restaurants, two places of worship, two theaters, and two hospitals. This ensures easy access to amenities and healthcare services in the nearby vicinity.

Overall, the Riverwalk Assisted Living Community provides a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors who require assistance with daily living activities while also offering opportunities for social engagement and access to basic necessities.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Pedi Center (0.4 miles)
  • Rajeev Krishan (0.4 miles)
  • Truxtun Radiology Medical Records (0.4 miles)
  • Advanced Gastroenterology (0.4 miles)
  • Pain Institute Of California (0.4 miles)
  • Zeba Yamin, MD (0.5 miles)
  • Ciccotto Salvatore MD (0.5 miles)

Restaurants

  • La Costa Mariscos (0.5 miles)
  • Yard House (0.5 miles)
  • Sonder (0.7 miles)
  • BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse (0.9 miles)
  • Yogurtland (0.9 miles)
  • Jack In The Box (0.9 miles)
  • McDonald's (1.1 miles)

Hospitals

  • Mercy Southwest Hospital (0.6 miles)
  • Jun, Daniel S DDS (2.2 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Hina's Mercy Southwest Pharmacy (0.6 miles)
  • Target Pharmacy (1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.1 miles)
  • Rite Aid (1.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
  • Faast Pharmacy (2.1 miles)

Parks

  • Liberty Park (0.9 miles)
  • The Park at River Walk (1 miles)
  • Aera Baseball Park (1.1 miles)
  • Emerald Cove Park (3.2 miles)

Theaters

  • Regal Edwards Bakersfield (1.4 miles)
  • SMG Bakersfield (1.7 miles)

Cafes

  • Dutch Bros Coffee (1.9 miles)
  • Panera Bread (3.6 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Philip The Apostle (1.9 miles)
  • Laurelglen Bible Church (3.1 miles)

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