The Carnelian III in Walnut Creek is a small board and care home that houses up to six residents, giving a close-knit feeling where everyone gets personalized support. The facility's been around since 1973 and sits in a quiet residential area, surrounded by beautiful, lush gardens and big decks where residents can relax outdoors. The staff help with daily tasks like bathing, grooming, dressing, and medication, and they coordinate with healthcare providers too. They're patient and familiar with residents' routines, offering insulin shots, managing special diets for things like high blood pressure or diabetes, and even handling more complex needs like two-person transfers or using lifts. Wheelchair users get easy access to showers and private or full baths.
The Carnelian III offers assisted living support, memory care for Alzheimer's and dementia, and respite programs if a caregiver needs a break. There's a secure section for those with memory challenges, with 24-hour supervision, wander alert systems, and even bracelets that ring alarms if someone tries to leave the safe areas, and the staff are experienced with handling behavior issues if they come up. For residents who like company, there's a communal dining room for meals, a book room, recreation and movie areas, and gatherings for holidays. There are weekly activities-exercise groups, movie nights, music and art programs, pet therapy, and social games. Residents enjoy walks on accessible paths, can join in spiritual services, or get rides to the doctor's or for local errands. Meals are prepared on-site with care for nutrition and taste, meeting personal needs.
The Carnelian III offers a more home-like setting than large institutions, with housekeepers keeping rooms and shared spaces clean, laundry and dry cleaning done for residents, and help always near thanks to emergency alert systems installed throughout the community. There are amenities like a fitness room, hot tub, steam room, and a hair parlor, plus indoor and outdoor areas for socializing. Residents can keep pets, and the facility hosts events during special times like July 4 and Christmas, providing a sense of routine and celebration.
The care team works to keep life calm, safe, and welcoming. They create routines for memory support, help people stay active and social, and focus on relationships. Families are welcome to visit and join in, and there's an emphasis on regular activities to keep everyone engaged. Licensed by local authorities, The Carnelian III doesn't accept Medicare unless they're certified, but they do provide hospice care if needed. The place has earned a 4.7 overall rating from reviews, showing appreciation for the level of attention, calm environment, and the comfort it brings to seniors and their families.