St. John Kronstadt Health Care Center

St. John Kronstadt Health Care Center sits in Castro Valley, California, and runs as a nonprofit skilled nursing facility with 49 beds, so it stays on the smaller, friendlier side. The community gets a 2-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services but people rate it higher, about 8.7 out of 10, and folks notice how caring the staff tends to be. The facility offers both short-term rehabilitation and long-term care, taking in nursing home patients who need help with daily life. They've got studio room layouts as well as private rooms and family rooms, so there's some choice about where to stay, and being a nursing care place, there are always licensed staff around, 24 hours a day, delivering care when needed. You'll find memory care and assisted living services, as well as options for home care too. People can use wireless internet, cable TV, and even iPads. There are gardens, outdoor spaces, a big BBQ area, and a fountain that make it feel a little more like home, and some people like sitting out under the trees. Dietitians help with food choices, and there are social and spiritual activities for residents, so folks get a chance to spend some time together and keep busy. Rehabilitation focuses on getting people mobile again and helping with communication if there's been a stroke or illness. Someone can expect care paid for by Medicare or Medi-Cal if needed. The center is run by Serenity 4 Management Services and stays open all week, every hour, so people always have support close by.