White Sands La Jolla

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Janet Ngallo conducted an unannounced Required Annual Inspection. The facility file was reviewed prior to the visit. LPA was greeted and allowed entry into the facility by Executive Director Shelly Smart, to whom LPA discussed the purpose of the visit. According to the facility’s license, the facility has a maximum capacity of two hundred and ninety nine (299) adults ages 60 and over. During today’s inspection, two hundred and sixty three (263) residents were at the facility. LPA, accompanied by the Executive Director, toured the interior and exterior of the facility, and inspected each room. The facility was clean, sanitary, and in good repair. Pathways were free of obstruction and slip hazards. Resident bedrooms contained the required furnishings. Doors, windows, screens, toilets, and showers were in working order. Extra linens and hygiene supplies were present, as well as Personal Protective Equipment. The facility had sufficient space and equipment to facilitate dining, laundry, visitation, meetings, and client activities. The facility’s ambient internal temperature was comfortable. Hot water temperature in residents' rooms were all compliant. There was at least 2 days of perishable food, and at least 7 days non-perishable food present, all safely stored. Cooking/dining equipment and utensils were present. There were no sharp objects, toxic chemicals/poisons, or open-faced heaters accessible to residents. Medications were labeled, as required, and stored in locked areas. [CONTINUED ON LIC 809-C] [CONTINUED FROM LIC 809] The pool area on the premises was locked. Per the Executive Director, no firearms or ammunition are kept at the facility. Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, emergency lighting, and facility telephone were all working. Fire extinguishers were serviced within the last twelve(12) months. First aid kits were complete and readily accessible. Required licensing postings were observed in visible areas of the facility. LPA interviewed staff present and residents at the facility during the visit. LPA reviewed multiple staff and resident records/files. Files reviewed contained required documents. Confidential records were stored in locked areas. No deficiencies were observed or cited during today's annual inspection. An exit interview was conducted with Executive Director Shelly Smart, to whom copies of this report and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC9058 03/22) were provided at the conclusion of the visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 10, 2026

Type of visit: Case Management - Other

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Janet Ngallo conducted an unannounced case management visit regarding a previously delivered complaint report. LPA identified themselves and met with Executive Director Shelly Smart to discuss the purpose of the visit. LPA conducted a visit to issue an amended report that was previously delivered on 04/30/2026. No additional deficiencies were cited. An exit interview was conducted with Executive Director Shelly Smart, and a copy of this report, along with Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC 9058 01/16), were provided. Their signature confirms receipts of these documents.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Jun 19, 2026

Allegation investigated: Staff spoke to a resident in an inappropriate manner. Staff denied a resident food.

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Janet Ngallo conducted an unannounced subsequent visit to deliver findings regarding the above-mentioned complaint allegations. LPA identified themselves and met with Health Services Administrator Venus Jo and Executive Director Shelly Smart, to discuss the purpose of the visit and elements of the complaint. On 03/03/2026, it was alleged that staff spoke to a resident in an inappropriate manner, and that staff denied a resident food. The department's investigation consisted of interviews and records review. Regarding the allegation that staff spoke to a resident in an inappropriate manner, interviews confirmed that a staff member(S2) used an inappropriate phrase in the dining room towards a resident(R1). S2 acknowledged making the statement, and confirmed verbal counseling was given afterward. Dining management reported addressing the matter with the staff member, reviewing expectations, and had staff apologize to R1. R1 reported that the staff member used an inappropriate word but stated it had not happened since then. (Cont. on LIC 9099-C) Substantiated (Cont. from LIC-9099) Records review of facility HR email correspondence documented that the incident was reported by an employee witness(S1) and addressed by dining management. Regarding the allegation that staff denied a resident food, the resident involved(R1) reported that a staff member refused to provide fruit after dinner service had ended. R1 reported that the staff member (S2) declined to retrieve the fruit, and that the concern was reported to dining management. S2 reported that residents may self-serve fruit before final closing and that after closing, S2 directed residents to other staff to receive food. Management reported addressing the concern with S2 as well. Based on relevant interviews and records review, the preponderance of evidence has been met that the alleged violations occurred and is therefore substantiated. A deficiency is cited per California Code of Regulations, Title 22 (refer to the attached LIC 9099-D). A Plan of Correction was jointly developed with the licensee. An exit interview was conducted with Health Services Administrator Venus Jo, to whom a copy of this report, and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC9058 03/22) were provided. (Cont. from LIC-9099A) Regarding the allegation, interviews reported that dietary allergies are flagged in the computer ordering system, reviewed during staff line-ups, and displayed for cooks and servers. Staff stated that when the garlic concern was reported, the dining team reviewed the ingredients and found no indication that garlic had been added. The resident(R2) with the garlic allergy reported that they could not tell if there was garlic on the food served, that the incident and reaction was minor, and that staff are “very careful” and took appropriate steps after the concern. Records review of the dining menu items on the date in question contained garlic in limited products, but there was no documentation confirming that garlic was served to the resident or that a dietary plan was violated. The food R2 described eating was not consistent with any food on the menu for the date in question. LPA observed dining room clean, with allergen sign up warning residents about foods that may contain eggs, shellfish, peanuts, etc. LPA observed Dinning Director demonstrating how when a resident places an order, the allergen warning and what the resident is allergic to will come up. LPA observed this notice in bright red. LPA was informed this gets sent to the back of house staff that prepare the meals as well. Based upon the information obtained during this investigation, it is determined that the preponderance of evidence was not met to support or corroborate the allegation and therefore deemed unsubstantiated. An exit interview was conducted with Health Services Administrator Venus Jo, to whom a copy of this report and the Licensee’s Rights (LIC9058 01/16) were provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 30, 2026 · control 08-AS-20260303120623

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87468.1(a)(1) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 30, 2026

(a) Residents... personal rights: (1) To be accorded dignity in their personal relationships with staff, residents, and other persons. This requirement was not met as evidenced by: Based on interviews and records review, staff did not accord dignity to R1. This posed a potential personal rights risk to 1 out of 267 residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 30, 2026

Plan of correction: The licensee agreed to conduct personal rights training for dinning staff and provide proof of training conducted regarding code of conduct and respectful communication.

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: CCR 87555(b)(3) · Plan of correction due date: Apr 30, 2026

(b)(3) Between-meal nourishment or snacks shall be made available for all residents unless limited by dietary restrictions prescribed by a physician. Based on interviews and records review, licensee did not make available between-meal nourishments or snacks to residents. This posed a potential personal rights risk to residents in care.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Apr 30, 2026

Plan of correction: The licensee agreed to conduct personal rights training for dinning staff as well as provide between-meal nourishments or snacks to residents in care. License will provide proof of training conducted for snack policy by POC due date.

Type of visit: Case Management - Incident

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Arian Golbakhsh conducted an unannounced Case Management visit to follow up on an incident reported to Community Care Licensing. LPA was welcomed by, identified themselves to, and discussed the purpose of the visit to Health Services Administrator (HSA) Venus Jo, Director of Wellness (DOW) Deeanna Lyons, and Social Worker Eileen Carandang. Community Care Licensing received a self report on 01/16/26 in which the facility shared concerns regarding a resident (identified as R1) and their responsible party, pertaining to R1's care. During today's visit, LPA conducted interviews and file review, as well as a visit with R1. LPA provided consultation with HSA Jo, DOW Lyons, and Social Worker Carnadang. Thus far the facility has responded appropriately to the shared concerns. At this time, LPA observed no health and/or safety concerns and no deficiencies were cited during today's visit. An exit interview was conducted with Health Services Administrator Jo to whom a copy of this report was provided. Their signature below confirms receipt of this document.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Feb 2, 2026

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analysts (LPAs) Arian Golbakhsh and Jose De La Cruz conducted an unannounced Required Annual Inspection. The facility file was reviewed prior to the visit. LPAs were welcomed by and discussed the purpose of the visit to Executive Director Shelly Smart (SS). The facility's license shows a maximum capacity of 299 non-ambulatory residents, ages 60 and above. During today’s inspection there were 247 residents in care. LPAs and SS toured the interior and exterior of the facility and inspected a sample of occupied and unoccupied rooms. The facility was clean, sanitary, and in good repair. Pathways were free of obstruction and slip hazards. Client bedrooms contained the required furnishings. Doors, windows, screens, toilets, and showers were in working order. LPAs observed a variety of activities offered and residents participating. Extra linens and hygiene supplies were present, as well as Personal Protective Equipment. The facility had sufficient space and equipment to facilitate dining, laundry, visitation, meetings, and client activities. The facility contained at least 2 days of perishable food, and at least 7 days non-perishable food, all safely stored. Cooking, dining equipment, and utensils were present. (Continued on LIC809-C) (continued from LIC809) A medtech provided walk through on proper medication procedures. No toxic chemicals or poisons were accessible to clients. Medications were labeled, as required, and stored in locked areas. A pool does exist on the premises, LPA's ensured that the perimeter was locked and secured. Per executive director SS, any assisted living residents with access to the pool are accompanied by staff. Per SS, no firearms or ammunition are kept at the facility. Carbon monoxide detectors, emergency lighting, and facility telephone were all in working order. Facility will follow up with fire inspection records via email. Fire extinguishers were serviced within the last 12 months. First aid kits were complete and readily accessible. Required licensing postings were observed in visible areas of the facility. LPAs interviewed two staff members and one client, and reviewed facility records. The files reviewed by LPAs contained required documents. Confidential records were stored in locked areas. No deficiencies were cited during the inspection. An exit interview was conducted with SS to whom a copy of this report and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC9058) were provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 27, 2025

Type of visit: Case Management - Incident

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA), Tiffany Holmes conducted an unannounced case management visit. LPA Holmes introduced herself and was allowed entry into the facility and explained the purpose of the visit to Shelly Smart, Executive Director. Today’s visit was regarding an incident report received on 09/04/2024 in the office. During today’s visit LPA toured the facility and observed and received pertinent documents. The incident involved Resident 2 (R2) yelling at Resident (R1) and tapping R1 on the leg somewhat aggressively in front of staff because R1 could not understand what R2 was telling them to do. Interviews revealed the two have been partners for over a year. LPA Holmes conducted interviews and the interviews did not reveal any health and safety concerns. Interviews revealed both residents are cognitively impaired and still declining. Staff interviews revealed there is a plan to keep both residents safe and that is a 24 hour caregiver that will report anything to the leadership staff. The 12 hour caregiver started on August 13, 2024 and on 08/21/2024 they moved it to the 24 hour caregiving which is what is still in place today. Interviews revealed both families know about the relationship and are okay with the relationship between R1 and R2. The families don't have any problems with the two residents being together. According to staff, they feel that it is a loving relationship and that R2 does get a little flustered with R1 but it is because of their decline as well. They both start their day with breakfast together and then R2 leaves the facility. They meet up for dinner and watch a movie and then retreat back to R1s room to sleep. This is their daily routine. Based on todays visit, no deficiencies were observed or cited during todays visit An exit interview was conducted with Shelly Smart, Executive Director. A copy of this report, and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (9058 03/22) were provided at the conclusion of the visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Oct 31, 2024

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Tiffany Holmes conducted an unannounced Required Annual Inspection. The facility file was reviewed prior to the visit. LPA was greeted and allowed entry into the facility by Shelly Smart, Administrator to whom LPA discussed the purpose of the visit. According to the facility’s license, the facility has a maximum capacity of two hundred and ninety nine (299) elderly adults. During today’s inspection, two hundred and fifty (250) residents were at the facility. LPA, accompanied by the Administrator, toured the interior and exterior of the facility, and inspected each room. The facility was clean, sanitary, and in good repair. Pathways were free of obstruction and slip hazards. Resident bedrooms contained the required furnishings. Doors, windows, screens, toilets, and showers were in working order. Extra linens and hygiene supplies were present, as well as Personal Protective Equipment. The facility had sufficient space and equipment to facilitate dining, laundry, visitation, meetings, and client activities. The facility’s ambient internal temperature was comfortable. Hot water temperature in residents' rooms were measured between 105 degrees Fahrenheit and 116.2 degrees Fahrenheit through a sample of Memory Care Units, Assisted Living units and Independent Living units. There was at least 2 days of perishable food, and at least 7 days non-perishable food present, all safely stored. Cooking/dining equipment and utensils were present. There were no sharp objects, toxic chemicals/poisons, or open-faced heaters accessible to clients. Medications were labeled, as required, and stored in locked areas. [CONTINUED ON LIC 809-C] [CONTINUED FROM LIC 809] The pool area on the premises was locked. Per Administrator Shelly Smart, Administrator, no firearms or ammunition are kept at the facility. Smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, emergency lighting, and facility telephone were all working. Fire extinguisher has been serviced. First aid kits were complete and readily accessible. Required licensing postings were observed in visible areas of the facility. LPA interviewed staff present and residents at the facility during the visit. LPA reviewed multiple staff and resident records/files. Files reviewed contained required documents. Confidential records were stored in locked areas. Administrator presented proof of current/active business liability insurance and surety bond. No deficiencies were observed or cited during today's annual inspection. An exit interview was conducted with Shelly Smart, Administrator to whom copies of this report and the Licensee/Appeal Rights (LIC9058 03/22) were provided at the conclusion of the visit.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Aug 21, 2024