St. John of Kronstadt Home

St. John of Kronstadt Home is a charming assisted living community in Los Angeles, California. It is within bright and cheery Los Angeles County which is part of the Golden State.

The St John of Kronstadt Home seems to fit perfectly in the area what with its one story structure and red tile roof; it gives the appearance of a larger family home. Let us face it - it is exactly that, a large family home, located on a quiet street, blending with the environment.

Like many houses it is surrounded by a wrought iron fence. Open the gate and enter a small attractive garden with blooming flowers and manicured planters. Follow the walk path leading to the main entrance. Once in, you would never think in terms of an institution, but rather that you are visiting the home of a friend. The furnishings help to enhance this feeling of home comfort.

A long hallway continues from the entrance foyer. Its walls display paintings, many depicting a russian theme. On the left, a large living room with its traditional "red corner", displaying religious icons and a small altar, where once a month is celebrated a divine liturgy and special services, molebens. It is furnished with soft furniture, a persian carpet, pictures on the walls, curtains on the windows and a bookcase in the corner with a selection of books.

Absent there is the cold spartan feeling typical of an institution of this kind. Walking further along the hallway, on the left, a door opens to the dining hall: In the corner a large icon with a votive light.

Tables with gay colored table cloths, awaiting a large family for their next meal. Adjacent to the dining hall, a bright kitchen, equipped with all the latest equipment. The guests are offered four russian style meals. Two cooks and a helper work there using only fresh produce of good quality.

Further down the hall, the laundry room, the common showers and 18 individual rooms and a larger one for two people provide the necessary living comforts.

The home otherwise known as the St John of Kronstadt Home was created some thirty years ago thanks to the efforts of a hard working group under the guidance of Alexandra I Merger.

Developed under the auspices of the St John of Kronstadt Memorial Fund, the Los Angeles Russian licensed Care Facility maintains a home like atmosphere for Russian speaking retirees in a protected environment. The Home provides basic needs such as single occupant, private room and board with four Russian ethnic meals served daily, housekeeping of rooms and laundry service, personnel assistance and care with activities of daily living such as dressing, bathing and taking prescribed medication. All of this is included in the basic rate. In addition a variety of professionals are invited into our building to provide appropriate therapies and hygiene services. The residents live in safe and comfortable accommodations in their own private room under regular observation of physical and mental conditions.

The residents receive assistance with their medical needs - transport to and from their physician, dental office, bedside care for minor, temporary illnesses or surgeries. Social, recreational activities arc appropriate for the interest and capabilities of the resident!

The Facility is licensed by the California Department of Social Services, Community Licensing Division and is advertised as Assisted Living. The residents are required to move about the facility under their own initiative, even with a cane. A wheel chair may be used for safety reasons but must not be depended on.

For those who desire it, Russian Orthodox religious services are provided in the Home by a visiting priest. Also Sunday transportation to and from Russian church can be arranged if required. In the St John of Kronstadt Home residents can visit with their families, yet they maintain their independence and dignity while enjoying a comfortable lifestyle in their own private room and homelike atmosphere.