Ray of Hope/Braeburn sits in a quiet neighborhood in Altadena, California, and holds space for just six residents at a time, and folks there can choose between private rooms, studios, or shared spaces, with monthly costs starting around $5,000. The place has a homelike feel because it's a board and care home, so caregivers know everyone by name and the staff keeps their eyes on the small group day and night, making it more personal than larger assisted living places. Residents get help with daily chores like bathing, medication, and meals, but they can still do some things on their own, and the place handles everything like laundry, housekeeping, linen changes, and cooking, serving up food made from organic ingredients and taking care to ask about any special diets. Each room has its own bathroom, a kitchenette, air conditioning, and is fully furnished, though residents can bring their own decorations to make it feel more like home. Folks living here get activities that keep the mind and body busy, like movie nights, arts and crafts, walks in the garden, and group meals, and the staff sets up rides for doctors' appointments or trips to the shops.
The staff has experience caring for seniors with more complicated needs, such as Alzheimer's care or Parkinson's, and they give extra patience and attention, organizing individualized care plans so everyone is seen by familiar faces. They offer a call system in every room for emergencies, and a nurse can be reached at all times, plus they keep in touch and work closely with hospice nurses when the time comes. The place keeps pets around, allows both cats and dogs, and has walking paths, gardens, and spots for relaxing outside, and with three parks, two churches, and several restaurants and cafés nearby, outings are possible if the resident is able. The hospital and pharmacies are close too, in case urgent help or new medicines are needed. During tougher times, like COVID, the home made sure families could come by to visit in a safe way.
Ray of Hope/Braeburn doesn't give refunds if someone passes away before the end of the month-they charge for the full month. The facility has received local awards for senior living, but folks are encouraged to come see for themselves. Families and residents can expect clear, regular communication, with staff showing warmth and respect every day, and maintaining a supportive atmosphere that helps everyone feel they belong.
