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Memory Care Communities in San Diego, California

Our comprehensive listings and authentic reviews in San Diego, CA below include 143 memory care...

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Reviews of Communities Nearby

Memory Care

Mary825

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of Acorn Oaks Manor II

My father-in-law was at Acorn Oaks Manor II. They were amazing. The process of moving in was very simple. The nursing care was around the clock because they had three different shifts. We had a...

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Memory Care

Reviewer#RD1015ee

I visited this facility

Review of Stellar Care

Stellar Care was nice. The facility was nice and well cared for. They looked like they were very caring. Their staff had been there for a long time. There was very little turnover. Everyone seemed...

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Memory Care

Rose Straight

I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident

Review of Silvergate Rancho Bernardo

Silvergate is exceptional! The facility is excellent, the activities numerous and the staff, unsurpassed. We are very pleased with all Silvergate offers but especially the staff. They make...

Provider response

Rose, Thank you for your kind words and for entrusting with us the care of your loved one! We agree with you, our long standing staff have passion for helping others. We strive to exceed...

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The Cost of Memory Care in Nearby Cities

Nationally, seniors pay $5,625 per month for memory care, and in California, rates are among the highest in the nation at $6,523. San Diego seniors pay even more for care, with memory care facilities charging $6,844 per month on average. In the Santa Cruz area, care costs are a little higher at $6,938, and in El Centro, residents pay approximately $7,688. Santa Rosa is among the costliest cities in California for care, with rates averaging $8,810. Those seeking more affordable care may consider Riverside, where rates are nearly $2,000 per month lower than in San Diego at $5,000.  

San Diego

$6,844

California

$6,523

The United States

$5,625

El Centro

$7,688

Riverside

$5,000

Santa Rosa Area

$8,810

Santa Cruz Area

$6,938

Paying for Memory Care in San Diego, CA

When trying to decide how to pay for memory care, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of more than 75,000 senior living providers to provide insight into the average cost of memory care in San Diego and 139 other cities in California.

Financial Assistance for Memory Care in San Diego

In San Diego there are options for seniors who need financial assistance paying for Memory Care. For more information about other options, who qualifies, and how to apply, Memory Care in California page.

More Ways to Pay for Memory Care

Memory care centers in San Diego accept several forms of payment for housing and expenses, including private payments, state and federal health insurance plans and veterans’ benefits. A strategy that includes a mix of personal funds and public payments ensures residential memory care services remain financially viable long term.

  • Medicaid: The California Medicaid Assisted Living Waiver pays for some memory care services for eligible seniors. Under this program, residents receive coverage for personal care services, housekeeping, medication management and personal emergency response systems.  
  • Medicare: The federal health insurance program pays for a portion of the third-party home health care services many memory care residents receive. However, standard memory care services fall outside its scope of coverage.
  • VA Benefits: The VA funds three programs that help seniors pay for memory care expenses, such as personal care and housing, including the Geriatrics and Extended Care program, Aid and Attendance and Housebound benefits. According to our proprietary Caring.com database, over two dozen local facilities accept this form of payment.
  • Private payments: Memory care residents rely on their personal income and assets to cover housing, personal care, meals and recreational therapies. This money comes from Social Security, government and private pensions, retirement savings and long-term care insurance.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in San Diego, CA

Memory care prices in San Diego have risen significantly due to inflation since 2022 and are expected to rise in 2024, with an average price increase of 19.1%. Nationwide inflation has been at a similar level, although memory care fees have risen by an average of just 13.8% across California. In Pleasanton, one of California's most affordable cities for memory care, inflation of 19% is projected, and the same applies in Brentwood. Dublin, one of the more costly locations for memory care, anticipates costs reaching $11,867 in 2024. Rising fees make shopping around and careful planning vital for seniors.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
San Diego$6,296$6,951$7,499
U.S. Average$4,863$5,369$5,792
California$5,668$5,866$6,453
Dublin$9,963$11,000$11,867
Pleasanton$4,786$5,284$5,700
Brentwood$6,875$7,590$8,188

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

Memory care is more costly than other senior living options, typically costing $6,951 per month due to the 24-hour care and supervision and the need for dementia-care-trained staff. Assisted living fees in San Diego are usually around $4,479, for which seniors receive help with housekeeping and personal care. Healthy and mobile people may find independent living more appropriate and affordable, averaging $3,679 per month.

Assisted Living

$4,479

Memory Care

$6,951

Independent Living

$3,679

Free Memory Care Resources in San Diego

San Diego seniors and families have access to numerous local nonprofit organizations and government agencies that help them make informed decisions regarding dementia care. Through these resources, individuals can connect with legal and financial advisors, find early-stage engagement programs and learn more about local long-term care options.  

Area Agency on Aging

Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Aging & Independence Services800-339-4661California's network of Area Agencies on Aging work under the umbrella of the California Department of Aging. These agencies promote healthy living for older residents through a variety of federal and state-funded programs. Some of these programs include supportive services, senior nutrition programs, care management programs, caregiving services and Medicare and insurance counseling. Low-income seniors can become productive community members through volunteer programs, such as the Senior Companion Program and the Senior Community Service Employment Program.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care

San Diego seniors wishing to remain in their own homes can find financial assistance from several local resources. These programs and organizations help retirees cover the cost of services such as home care, property modifications and utilities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Casa Pacifica ADHC Center619-424-8181Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
Loving Care ADHC619-718-9777Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
San Diego Family Circle ADHC858-244-4555Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
Neighborhood House ADHC Center619-233-6691Community-Based Adult Services is a program designed to prevent seniors from entering nursing homes if their needs can be met in the community. It covers professional nursing care, mental health services, occupational and physical therapy, personal care and other services to help participants maintain their quality of life.
In-Home Supportive Services Program (IHSS) - San Diego800-339-4661The In-Home Supportive Services Program covers the cost of home-based services that can help eligible participants avoid having to move out of their homes. Covered services include meal preparation, house cleaning, personal care and grocery shopping.

Cash Assistance Programs

Cash assistance programs in San Diego provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
General Relief - San Diego866-262-9881San Diego's General Relief Cash Assistance Program is funded by the county and provides emergency cash loans to eligible seniors. Although primarily targeted toward seniors up to the age of 64, older seniors burdened by no or low incomes and few material resources may also be considered. Applicants can apply online at BenefitsCal or in person at San Diego Family Resource Centers in multiple convenient locations. Qualification requires proof of local residency and lack of access to funds or support.

Food Assistance Programs

Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help San Diego seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Chollas View United Methodist Church Food Distribution619-264-0169Chollas View United Methodist Church, located in San Diego, CA, operates a food distribution program every Saturday between 10 a.m. and noon. In-need community members of all ages can get a range of ingredients to prepare meals at home to alleviate hardship and hunger. Devout seniors can also attend worship each Sunday at 11 a.m.
Ocean Beach Emergency Food, Inc.Ocean Beach Emergency Food, Inc., also known as Loaves & Fishes, is an emergency food bank serving Ocean Beach and the Peninsula area. To qualify, seniors must reside in the 92106, 92107 or 92110 areas and be in need of food. The emergency food bags provided contain peanut butter, beans, canned fruits and vegetables, bread, rice and pasta, soup and other shelf-stable items. The organization can also assist with toiletries and hygiene products as needed based on available supplies.
Meals on Wheels - San Diego County619-260-6110Meals on Wheels combats hunger and isolation by delivering nutritious meals to seniors throughout California. Local branches of the organization decide how many and at what times meals will be delivered each week.
San Diego Hunger Coalition858-452-3663The San Diego Hunger Coalition coordinates hunger-relief efforts across San Diego County and helps direct residents to the food banks and distribution centers that serve their areas. The SDHC helps direct seniors to congregate meal sites or set them up with a home-delivered meal program. The organization also assists low-income families and individuals in signing up for CalFresh grocery assistance and the federal WIC program.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to San Diego seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program - San Diego858-640-4661San Diego's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides direct support for seniors living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and similar shared communities. Ombudsmen help ensure seniors are aware of their legal rights. They may advocate on behalf of such seniors when they inquire about quality of care or billing and benefits issues. The program also assists with transferring into or out of communities, financial or physical abuse by caregivers, and proper nutrition along with similar elder concerns.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in San Diego help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Aging & Independence Services Volunteer Programs858-505-6399Aging & Independence Services Volunteer Programs offers two volunteer programs for seniors. Older adults aged 55 and up can join The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program run by AmeriCorps, while seniors aged 50 and older can join The Senior Volunteers in Action. Seniors will get a chance to work in museums, law enforcement and senior centers.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in San Diego help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
San Diego Social Security Offices800-772-1213Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. San Diego retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - San Diego866-675-6623The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps eligible households balance their utility bills, while the LIHEAP Energy Crisis Prevention Program provides financial assistance to low-income households facing energy-related crises. For example, the ECPP may offer assistance to a homeowner who's in danger of having their power shut off.

Veteran's Services

San Diego retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center858-552-8585The Jennifer Moreno Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center provides primary and specialty health services for veterans in San Diego. Mental health care, pain management, women's health services, rehabilitation and integrative health are some of the center's many health care offerings. The center employs a philosophy of whole health and patient-centered care that ensures each veteran has comprehensive support.
San Diego Vet Center858-642-1500The San Diego Vet Center, located in San Diego, California, is a valuable resource for veterans seeking mental health support and assistance. The center specializes in mental health counseling, providing individual and group therapy to help address issues such as depression, anxiety, PTSD and grief. With a focus on improving veterans' well-being, San Diego Vet Center is a pillar of support for those who have bravely served their country.

What to Consider About Memory Care in San Diego

The California Assisted Living Association monitors memory care facilities in San Diego and the rest of the state. These facilities are licensed as residential care homes for the elderly. Facilities that provide dementia care meet additional guidelines for staffing, staff ratios, care planning, recreational programming and building requirements.  

Benefits and Drawbacks of Memory Care in San Diego

Benefits

  • San Diego has committed to creating a welcoming environment for seniors, making it a prime option for those seeking memory care services. The city joined the AARP Age-Friendly Network in 2019 and has improved favorability for older residents through affordable housing initiatives, reduced public transportation costs and an annual technology fair specifically for seniors.
  • San Diego offers mild weather throughout the year, with high temperatures ranging from 65 degrees Fahrenheit in the coolest months to 77 degrees Fahrenheit in the peak of summer. To promote indoor comfort, many local memory care centers feature unit-controlled thermostats.
  • Compared to other communities in the state and nation, the San Diego region has better health factors and outcomes than average. Memory care residents benefit from a low rate of preventable hospitalization stays and high access to primary care physicians.

Drawbacks

  • San Diego’s cost of living exceeds the national norm by around 50%. Although this can prohibit some seniors and families from finding affordable memory care services, many local facilities accept the state-funded Medi-Cal Assisted Living Waiver.
  • San Diego’s poor air quality earns it failing scores across the American Lung Association’s three metrics, including ozone, 24-hour particle and annual particle pollution. Fortunately, many memory care centers offer updated ventilation and air purification systems to support residents’ comfort.

Memory Care Laws and Regulations in San Diego

San Diego Memory Care Communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all Memory Care Facilities in California are required to follow. Visit our Memory Care in California page for more information about these laws.

San Diego Memory Care Services and Amenities

A memory care center’s services and amenities distinguish it from a standard assisted living facility, offering tailored support for seniors with memory-related conditions. These facilities have highly trained staff members and offer customized recreational activities, therapies and support services for seniors and families. Many families prioritize residences that provide individualized care, enriching activities and support for family caregivers.

  • Personalized care plans: Individualized service plans address residents’ care needs while enabling them to remain as independent as possible.
  • Housekeeping and laundry services: Regular cleaning services promote residents’ comfort and maintain a sanitary environment.
  • Cognitive stimulation programs: Pet therapy, app-based games and life skills stations encourage cognitive engagement and foster an enriching environment.
  • Emergency call systems: Wearable pendants and wall-mounted call buttons let residents signal for assistance, no matter where they are in the community.
  • Family support and education programs: Support groups, educational seminars and open houses support families and provide valuable information.
  • Respite care: Short-term residential memory care services provide support when regular family caregivers are unavailable. According to our proprietary Caring.com database, the San Diego region contains over 40 memory care communities that provide this service.

Contact a Caring.com Family Advisor for one-on-one assistance with comparing services and amenities in local memory care facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions about Memory Care in San Diego

Memory Care Facilities near San Diego, CA

La MesaLemon GroveLa JollaNational CitySanteePoway

Other Options in San Diego, CA

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Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

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