The Open Arms House, officially known as the Kaweah Health Ruth Wood Open Arms House, stands as a unique and compassionate setting dedicated to providing end-of-life care with dignity and respect. This residence is thoughtfully designed to be a haven for patients and their loved ones during a profoundly meaningful time, offering a blend of comfort, tranquility, and expert care. The home operates under the guidance and management of the Kaweah Health Hospice leadership team, with Dr. Ryan Howard, Tiffany Bullock, and Deborah Salazar playing vital roles in its oversight and ensuring that the highest standards of hospice care are maintained.
Within The Open Arms House, residents have access to a peaceful and fully furnished environment that features six private rooms. Each room is created to provide privacy and comfort, allowing patients and their families to feel at home. The residence also boasts a centrally-located, inviting common area where social interactions and support among residents and families can flourish. Additionally, a thoughtfully designed kitchen and on-site laundry facilities are available to create a sense of normalcy and convenience during each stay. An outdoor meditation garden is another notable aspect of The Open Arms House, offering a restorative space for reflection and peace, where patients and their families can spend meaningful moments together in nature.
A distinguishing feature of The Open Arms House is its holistic approach to care, with services provided around the clock by a specialized and compassionate team. Residents benefit from 24-hour supervision and personal care tailored to their individual needs, delivered by skilled nursing staff, home health aides, spiritual counselors, and social workers. This multi-disciplinary team ensures that every aspect of the resident’s physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being is supported during their time at the home. The presence of community volunteers further enriches the supportive environment, as volunteers contribute through companionship, meal preparation, providing activities, and emotional support for both patients and their families.
The Kaweah Health Ruth Wood Open Arms House is a testament to the values of compassion, independence, and respect in end-of-life care. It serves as a vital community resource, welcoming residents from across Visalia and the broader Tulare and Kings Counties. Through the commitment and vision of its foundation and leadership team, The Open Arms House provides world-class hospice services in a setting where patients can experience comfort, dignity, and the warmth of community as they journey through their final stages of life.