Q: What is an Assisted Living Facility?

A: An Assisted Living Facility is any building or place where non-medical care and supervision are provided to residents. Care is provided to individuals who are in need of personal services, protection, supervision, assistance, guidance or training necessary for sustaining Activities of Daily Living (ADL's). Non-medical care and supervision may include personal services such as help with bathing and grooming, protection such as observation of a forgetful resident, assistance with making appointments, guidance, dressing, aid in taking self-administered medications and help with other ADL's.

Q: Are the facilities Nursing Homes?

A: Home Again I, Home Again II and Carrington of Bakersfield are not nursing homes. We are the most attractive and economical alternative to traditional nursing home care. Our facilities combine the best in convenient, comfortable retirement living for individuals who require some assistance but desire independence. However unlike other facilities, our Assisted Living homes feature the Nurse Liaison Program. This program provides for contracted nursing assessment and/or treatment in the facilities at the request of the facility Administrator.

Q: What if additional help is needed?

A: A Nurse Liaison is available at each facility. The nurse acts as primary liaison between the resident, physician and family. The nurse can identify and recommend appropriate care to assure that the resident retains their independence, mobility and remains at home in the facility.

Q: What should I look for when I visit a facility?

A: It is important to use your own judgment when visiting any facility. As a guide, use the following checklist.

• Look closely at the building and grounds
• Talk to some of the residents
  
• Talk to the facility Administrator in charge of daily operations
• Talk to the facility staff members
• Stay for a meal
• Ask to see a copy of the facility license

Q: How can I ensure the facility has a good reputation?

A: Two agencies monitor complaints about Assisted Living facilities:
The Ombudsman Program and Community Care Licensing. Both agencies routinely monitor the facility and complaints are kept on file at both. Seek recommendations from individuals having regular contact with seniors. Physicians, the Senior Referral Program, the County Department of Aging and Adult Services and hospital personnel (Discharge Planners, Case Managers, etc.) are other alternatives. For information on these agencies, please call us. We are happy to provide contact information.

Q: Are staff members trained in first aid and other safety issues?

A: All management and aides are certified in first aid and attend monthly in-service education on topics ranging from new care techniques to safety, and review everything from emergency procedures to client falls.

Q: What does the monthly rent cover?

A: Monthly rent covers all services provided by our staff, cleaning and room maintenance, and utility bills with the exception of telephone and cable television.

Q: Does Medicare or Private Insurance cover the cost?

A: Unfortunately, no. Assisted Living facilities are not able to bill insurance companies or Medicare for services. However, some individuals carry Long Term Care Insurance policies which may cover part or all costs associated with Assisted Living. Rent at the facilities is very reasonable, and in cases where a client has minimal or no assets and a limited income, SSI can be arranged to assist in payment.

Q: Are there any requirements for becoming a resident at any of the facilities?

A: In general, residents must be 60 years of age or older, and able to reasonably care for themselves at the time of initial residence. Disabled adults are also welcome, and are assessed on an individual case basis. There are no lengthy contracts or deposits required.