Desert Cottages I
Desert Cottages I
Desert Cottages I is an Assisted Living Home in California
Desert Cottages I is an Assisted Living Home in California
Ideally located in the peaceful residential of Himalaya Drive, Indio, CA, Desert Cottages I is a blissful retreat that specializes in dementia and Alzheimer’s care. Dedicated to residents’ welfare, the community also offers hospice care, transitioning program, and respite care. With its quaint and welcoming setting, the community strives to accommodate up to six residents. Keep peace of mind with a compassionate and highly trained team attending to your special needs 24/7, while retaining your independence.
Enhance cognition through stimulating activities that aims to keep residents happy and active. Pet therapy is also conducted to ease residents’ loneliness. Seek comfort in food and enjoy mealtimes with delightful and healthy meals catering to dietary needs and tastes. The community is great for those aiming to create memorable moments in their later years with its specially designed amenities and dedicated services.
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About this community
the state average: 71%
LICENSEDAdditional licensing details
Ownership & operating entity
Desert Cottages I is legally operated by DESERT COTTAGES L.L.C.
What does this home offer?
Total Residents: 6 Residents
Pets Allowed: Yes, Pets Allowed
Housing Options: 1 Bed / Semi-Private Room
Building Type: Single-story
Dining Services
Transportation Services
Parking Available
Housekeeping Services
Recreational Activities
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Types of Care at Desert Cottages I
Inspection History
In , the Department of Social Services (for ALFs) and the Department of Public Health (for nursing homes) conduct inspections to ensure resident safety and regulatory compliance.
20 visits/inspections
5 visits/inspections triggered by complaints
4 routine inspections
12 other visits
average: 14 visits/inspections
3 citations
Citations indicate regulatory violations. A higher number implies the facility had several areas requiring improvement.
average: 9 citations
Inspection Report Summary for Desert Cottages I
Desert Cottage is a small, licensed group home in Indio, California, with a capacity of six residents and a census that has ranged from four to five during the inspection period. The administrator, Elizabeth Hengstler, oversees the facility’s operations and maintains the required records and safety plans. The California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD), conducted a series of unannounced visits to assess the home’s compliance with state regulations.
During an unannounced inspection on April 6 2022, CCLD investigators discovered a serious deficiency: a staff member, S1, had been working at the facility since May 2020 without a proper criminal record exemption transfer. The staff file contained an incorrect clearance form, and S1 was only authorized to work at a different facility. Because the employee was present in the home without the required clearance, the agency cited the home for a civil penalty of $500, calculated at $100 per day for a maximum of five days. The administrator was given an exit interview, a copy of the deficiency report, and information about appeal rights.
A subsequent annual inspection on August 30 2022 focused on infection control. The home had implemented the required COVID‑19 mitigation plan, with hand sanitizer readily available and adequate personal protective equipment stored. While the facility met most infection‑control standards, the investigators noted that only the administrators had been fit‑tested for N95 masks and issued a technical assistance advisory. No deficiencies were formally cited at that time.
The most recent unannounced inspection on August 7 2023 confirmed that Desert Cottage had addressed the earlier deficiency and maintained overall compliance. The investigators reviewed client and staff records, medication storage, fire safety, and environmental conditions, finding no deficiencies. However, one staff member still lacked a current CPR certification, and N95 fit testing remained incomplete. Overall, the pattern shows a facility that quickly rectifies regulatory lapses and maintains high standards in infection control, record‑keeping, and safety, with only minor ongoing staff‑training gaps.
Places of interest near Desert Cottages I
2.6 miles from city center
83617 Himalaya Drive Indio, CA 92203
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For seniors needing help with daily tasks but not full-time nursing.
Hospice Care
Specialized care for those with Memory Loss, Alzheimer's, or dementia, ensuring safety and support.
For seniors needing help with daily tasks but not full-time nursing.
Home Care
Hospice Care
24/7 care needed
For seniors needing help with daily tasks but not full-time nursing.
For seniors needing help with daily tasks but not full-time nursing.
For seniors needing help with daily tasks but not full-time nursing.
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