Frequently Asked Questions

It all starts with hiring the right people. We look for competency and, most importantly, an ability to connect with our residents with compassion, patience, and authenticity. Every caregiver (along with our entire staff) goes through a rigorous vetting process to ensure a safe environment.

Kalnel Living also engages in ongoing professional development. All of our caregivers are Certified Medication Technicians, have received California State Covid-19 Infection Control Training, and have participated in Dementia and Hospice/End of Life care classes.

We have two homes: Lucerne One and Sawtelle One. Both of our boutique residences are within blocks of each other and provide the same level of service. Located in the Culver City, CA area, our homes’ interiors reflect a clean and contemporary aesthetic. Every aspect of our residences are thoughtfully designed to maximize natural light and provide ease and comfort.

Yes, we have hospice waivers. Aging in place is our goal. All caregivers receive hospice training. However, our resident hospice care is limited to services within our capacity.

• First, a tour of our residence(s) is scheduled. Tours are by appointment only and may be done in person or virtually.
• Should both parties agree to move forward, we request a copy of a LIC 602–a physician-completed history and physical. Once these documents are reviewed, a formal assessment is set in motion.

A care coordinator engages with doctors and home health care providers, liaisons with our care team, and keeps our community organized. Think of this role as the central hub where medical information and records are maintained. In addition, care coordinators offer staff support 24/7.

Our assessment process includes a comprehensive review of a potential resident’s current medication list and a LIC 602–this form provides critical information about overall physical and mental health. We also consider how a potential resident will fit into our community. If all parties agree Kalnel Living is a good fit, we proceed with the move-in process and devise a care plan.

To ensure the Kalnel Living community remains healthy, we require tuberculosis screening results and a record showing a Covid-19 vaccination and a Covid-19 test within 48 hours of move-in. (Alternatively, we can administer a PCR rapid Covid-19 test on-site).

We determine each resident’s monthly fee according to the level of care needed. The contract is month-to-month and is pro-rated according to the move-in date. Monthly fees are all-inclusive (cable & streaming platforms, room service, meals, outings, activities, laundry, medication management, and ADLs). There are no additional fees (excluding an incontinence fee of $450, any adaptive equipment not currently in the room, medication co-pays, and/or activation of a private landline if desired). We also charge a one-time community fee.

Rooms are not priced according to size – it is a matter of availability. Rooms come furnished or unfurnished (no price difference), and all have a private bathroom and custom closet to maximize space.  

All rooms also include a smart-television with streaming services. Upon request, we also offer a mini-refrigerator and microwave (if deemed safe).

Meals are included with residency. Kalnel Living’s private chef specializes in creating cuisine with a healthy twist that draws upon many cultures. Our menu changes daily and is carefully crafted around fresh, seasonal ingredients (many of our vegetables and herbs are from our garden). We are happy to accommodate any dietary restrictions or religious or personal preferences.

Meals are served at our communal dining space or delivered to a resident’s room at no additional charge. Alternatives to our set menu dishes are available. Snacks are always on hand, and we are happy to whip something up in the kitchen.

Kalnel Living does not offer transportation. However, we have a relationship with a respected third-party transportation company. Costs for transportation are not included in our monthly fees and are resident’s responsibility.

As an alternative to traveling outside the community for medical visits, we partner with several home healthcare companies with nurses, doctors, etc., who will visit a resident in our home. It is entirely up to the family/resident to decide what works best.

All of our caregivers are Certified Medication Technicians. They administer doctor-prescribed medications to residents. Med Techs are responsible for recoring the name of a drug, the dosage, and the time of administration.

Mental stimulation is key to good health. So, our Activities Director loves to mix things up: karaoke parties, games, art, movie nights, lectures, musical performances, group exercises, zoom classes, you name it, we’ll try it.

We also focus on small-scale activities tailored to match each resident’s capabilities and needs—the option to participate lies with the resident. We respectfully meet a resident where they are.