ADMISSIONS

For admission to the Arden Wood Sheltered Care Program, guests must be relying exclusively on Christian Science for healing and have regular contact with a Christian Science practitioner listed in The Christian Science Journal.

To schedule a tour or to apply for admission, please call Lesleah De Frisco, the Director of Christian Science Nursing at (415)379-2224 between 8:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. M–F or leave a message anytime.  You can also inquire by email at ldefrisco@ardenwood.org.

GUIDELINES

Eligibility for Sheltered Care Program

Individuals who are fully relying on Christian Science with an expectancy of healing, and who would benefit from being in a supportive environment, are welcome to apply for our Sheltered Care program.

Trial Period
Prior to acceptance into the Sheltered Care Program, each guest is required to come for a two-week stay.  Arden Wood will provide a modestly furnished room, preferably the room of the guest’s choice, based upon availability.  As an introduction to the program, we charge the base rate for these two weeks to give an opportunity to ensure that this is a right fit for the guest and for Arden Wood.  During this time, the staff will be assessing the guest’s care needs and determining if our program provides the support that is needed, as well as establishing the care level and rate for services.  After the successful completion of the trial period, arrangements may be made for the guest to move some of their own belongings into their room.

Christian Science Practitioner Support
Guests in the Sheltered Care Program are expected to have regular contact with a Christian Science practitioner listed in The Christian Science Journal to provide support for their spiritual progress.

Private Room and Bathroom
Arden Wood will supply a partially furnished room, or you may furnish it all with your own furniture.  We provide the cable for TV, including five special channels for Christian Science audio broadcasts. You provide the TV.  You have the option to use our bed with linens included, or to provide your own bed and linens. You will need to bring a comfortable chair or recliner and perhaps a study desk. You may need to bring additional lamps, as there is no overhead lighting.

Care Provided
Light Christian Science nursing care is provided, including assistance with mobility, getting dressed, personal care, and bathing.  Gentle reminders and guidance are provided as needed, as well as escort to meals and activities.  

Support Services
Daily bed making and weekly linen change is provided.  Weekly housekeeping and personal laundry services are provided.    

Available Resources
Sheltered Care guests have access to gardens, patios, Bible Research Library, study room, and sun room.  An escort will be available as appropriate. 

Meals and Snacks
Sheltered Care guests have their own dining room where three hot meals a day are served.  Mealtimes are 8:00 A.M., 12:30 P.M., and 6:00 P.M.  Snacks may be served between meals and in the evening, as needed.  Special arrangements may be made for visitors to join guests for meals in the Sheltered Care Dining Room.  Sheltered Care guests do not eat in the Main Dining Room at Arden Wood.

Staffing
The Sheltered Care wing is staffed by Christian Science nurses from 7:00 A.M. until 10:00 P.M.  During the nighttime hours, the staff from the Christian Science nursing floor is on call for any needs of the Sheltered Care guests.  Regular checks are made throughout the night.  The Director of Christian Science Nursing provides oversight for the Sheltered Care Program.

Activities and Outings

There are group activities scheduled, as well as one-on-one activities throughout the day and evening.  Group activities may include reading the Bible Lesson, reading Christian Science periodicals, puzzles, games, movies, crafts, and baking.  Occasional outings may include car or bus rides to the beach or Golden Gate Park, or other nearby places.  As a general rule, the Sheltered Care guests do not join the outings and activities scheduled for the Residents. Sheltered Care guests are able to participate in Arden Wood events such as hymn sings, musical programs, and inspirational talks.

Transportation
Arden Wood has a car and bus that is available on a limited basis for scheduled group outings.  Guests are able to go on outings with family and friends as appropriate. 

Church Services
Transportation to nearby Ninth Church of Christ, Scientist, San Francisco is available for those individuals who are able to get on and off the Arden Wood bus with minimal assistance and walk the distance from their room to the bus and from the bus to the church and return.  Special arrangements may be made, as staffing allows, for guests to go by car and transfer to a wheel chair as needed to enter church.  Guests that do not have the demonstrated mobility may listen to the live broadcasts of the church services in their rooms.