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Care types · California

Types of Senior Care in California

California has six main types of senior care. This guide explains what each one is, who it's for, and what it typically costs. Not sure which fits? Talk to Suren — free.

Senior couple happy with a family visit at a California care home

How to choose

Not sure which type of care is right?

The right type of care depends on three things: how much help your parent needs with daily activities, whether there are safety concerns at home, and whether a medical condition requires ongoing nursing care. Most families start by asking the wrong question — "which facility looks nice?" — instead of "what level of care does my parent actually need?" Jagua helps you answer that first.

Needs help with daily tasks

Bathing, dressing, medications → Assisted living or board & care

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Has dementia or Alzheimer's

Wandering risk, behavioral changes → Memory care

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Wants to stay home

A few hours of help per day → In-home care + IHSS

Learn more

Active and independent

No daily care needed → Independent living

Learn more
Seniors enjoying community life across a variety of California care settings

Still unsure? Talk to Suren — free. He'll help you figure out the right level before you start touring facilities.

Compare the main types of senior care

Care typeWho it's forTypical CA cost / moLicenseMedical care?
Assisted livingNeeds help with daily activities$4,500-$6,500RCFE (CDSS)No
Memory careAlzheimer's / dementia$5,000-$7,500RCFE + dementia endorsementNo
Board & careWants small, home-like setting$3,000-$5,000RCFE (CDSS) · 6 beds maxNo
In-home careWants to stay at home$25-$40/hrHome care agency licenseNo
Independent livingActive senior, no care needed$2,500-$5,000None (residential housing)No
Skilled nursingNeeds 24/7 medical care$300-$500/daySNF (CDPH)Yes

Homes we recommend across California

Every home below is advisor-visited and checked against CDSS inspection records. Facilities are matched to your care needs and budget — not by who pays us more.

Dignity Care Home #1 in North Hills, California
#1 match

Dignity Care Home #1

North Hills, CA · state-licensed

Ladera Vista in Los Angeles, California
#2 match

Ladera Vista

Los Angeles, CA · state-licensed

Marble Terrace in Tarzana, California
#3 match

Marble Terrace

Tarzana, CA · state-licensed

Marble Terrace II in Tarzana, California
#4 match

Marble Terrace II

Tarzana, CA · state-licensed

Anew Care Living in Canoga Park, California
#5 match

Anew Care Living

Canoga Park, CA · state-licensed

Pasadena Mansion in Pasadena, California
#6 match

Pasadena Mansion

Pasadena, CA · state-licensed

Common questions

Not sure which care type is right?

Suren can help — free, 12 years California experience