Assisted Living
This setting provides room and board as well as limited nursing and personal care, along with cooking and cleaning services. It is commonly called community care, board and care, independent living, or residential care. The 14,000 assisted living facilities in California range in size from 6 to 100 beds. The cost averages $2,500 to $3,000 per month, with extra fees for pre-admission, hospice, and dementia care. Most people pay out of pocket for assisted living; in rare cases, long term care insurance and a special Medi-Cal program may help with the costs.
Assisted living facilities serve those who do not need skilled nursing and are able to live independently, in a supportive community setting, as well as those who may need some help managing their medical conditions. Residents can get help with activities of daily living such as bathing and dressing, as well as reminders to take medication. Therapeutic care is often provided as needed and requested. Facilities vary widely in the type of services and areas of focus provided.