10 Best Memory Care Facilities in San Diego, CA
When your loved one needs memory care in San Diego, California, rest assured that you can help them find their ideal community. San Diego has it all, from beachfront living in an intimate memory care neighborhood to living in a multilevel care community. You can find this variety and more among our 26 partner memory care communities that are all within a 10-mile radius of the San Diego city center.
San Diego memory care communities are a specially designed type of assisted living facility. They provide specialized therapies and caregivers to help seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, in addition to assistance with activities of daily living. This all-inclusive guide to San Diego memory care can help you understand the cost of care, ways that families pay for memory care, local laws and regulations, and what to expect from senior-specific San Diego resources.
San Diego Memory Care Facilities | 1079 Reviews
We have been very pleased with this community since my father moved in. We were initially drawn in by the fact that it does not feel like a normal institution or senior living community. It is almost like a...
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Our methodology
How we rank order the San Diego community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders San Diego community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your search location
- Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
- The amount of detailed community information available
Where we source our information
14,000+ communities
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
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- Costs of memory care in the San Diego area
- What families are saying about memory care in San Diego
- How people pay for memory care in San Diego
- Understand California laws and regulations for memory care facilities
- What to expect from memory care living in San Diego
- San Diego memory care services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with San Diego? Highlights for seniors
Costs of memory care in the San Diego area
Between 2022 and 2023, the average costs that families paid for A Place for Mom’s partner San Diego memory care facilities was $5,989 per month. This average cost includes room and board, care services, community fees, and service add-ons.
Memory care cost breakdown
The cost of memory care near San Diego can vary depending on the location, floor plan, and specific amenities. You can find typical memory care services, amenities, and add-ons or fees below:
- Three meals a day plus snacks
- Personal care, like assistance with activities of daily living
- Medication assistance and administration
- Weekly housekeeping and laundry
- Maintenance and landscaping
- Utilities
- Activity programming
- Transportation
- Senior-specific amenities
- Specialized therapies and programs
- Indoor and outdoor common areas, like game rooms, salons, movie theaters, courtyards, and pools
The chart below includes starting costs for San Diego memory care. Please note that starting costs don’t typically reflect all of the items in the cost breakdown above.
Average monthly cost of Memory Care in San Diego, CA vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Memory Care in San Diego, CA vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Memory Care in San Diego vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Memory Care in San Diego, CA by room type
Average cost of Memory Care in San Diego over time
What families are saying about memory care in San Diego
Recent reviews for memory care in San Diego
Santianna in Carlsbad, CA
Crest View Manor, Inc. in Escondido, CA
RanchView Senior Assisted Living in Encinitas, CA
Reviews mention these favorite features of communities
San Diego review score based on 220 family reviews
This proprietary review score is based on 220 reviews of 51 San Diego memory care communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.San Diego review score compared against nearby cities
Review subcategories for San Diego memory care
When memory care residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 220 reviews of 51 San Diego memory care communities. This chart helps you compare San Diego resident and family memory care satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.How people pay for memory care in San Diego
Personal income, veterans benefits, and state and federal programs can be used to cover memory care costs. We’ve organized information on each payment method and included lists of helpful resources to guide you through eligibility criteria and application processes.
Some families use their personal finances to begin covering memory care costs. These payment options can include savings accounts, pensions, investment returns, Social Security benefits, and any of the choices below.
Note: Check with your loved one’s long-term care policy provider to understand whether memory care may be covered.
Senior veterans in San Diego can use a variety of veteran services programs. California’s program, CalVet, helps seniors access a Veterans Benefit Enhancement Program (or VBE). The VBE gives seniors the tools to transition from Medi-Cal to VA health care.
Veterans Pension program
Once a senior enrolls in VA health care, they can enroll in the Veterans Pension program. A VA pension provides monthly income that can be used to cover the costs of memory care. Your loved one must meet the following criteria to be eligible for a VA pension:
- The senior hasn’t received a dishonorable discharge.
- The senior’s annual family income and net worth meet congressional limits.
- The senior served at least 90 days of service, including one day of wartime.
The senior must also meet at least one of the following:
- At least 65 years old
- Diagnosed with a permanent disability
- Currently receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)[03]
VA Aid and Attendance benefit
The VA Aid and Attendance benefit may be available to your loved one if they’re a veteran with a disability. This benefit distributes monthly payments that can be combined with a VA pension to cover some of the senior’s memory care expenses.
A senior veteran must be enrolled in VA health care, receive a VA pension, and meet at least one of the following requirements:
- Requires assistance with some activities of daily living
- Has a disability that causes them to be bedridden if left untreated
- Lives in a nursing home or skilled nursing facility
- Has significantly impaired eyesight[04]
Housebound allowance
The Housebound allowance is another option for seniors who are enrolled in VA health care. This benefit can also be used alongside a VA pension, and it can help seniors with disabilities pay for necessary in-home care. To receive the Housebound allowance, a senior must meet the following requirements:
- Receives a VA pension
- Spends the majority of their time at home due to a permanent disability[04]
Seniors can apply for the Aid and Attendance benefit or the Housebound allowance if they’ve received acknowledgement from the VA that they need daily assistance or in-home care. It’s important to note that seniors can’t use the Aid and Attendance benefit and the Housebound allowance at the same time. You can apply for either the Aid and Attendance benefit or the Housebound allowance by downloading and completing the VA Form 21-2680.
Benefit application assistance
Applying for VA benefits and waiting for approval can be a lengthy and difficult process. Use the following resources for assistance:
- Veterans can find local representatives who can assist with applications by contacting San Diego’s VA Regional Benefit Office.
- Benefits counseling and assistance is also available through the County’s Office of Military and Veterans Affairs (OMVA).
- Volunteers are available through the San Diego Public Library’s Veterans Resources Center to assist veterans in accessing their benefits.
- Find support from local chapters of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV).
Approximate number of veterans who live in San Diego, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of veterans in San Diego who are over the age of 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Resources for San Diego veterans
San Diego VA Regional Benefit Office — public contact offices
8810 Rio San Diego Drive
San Diego, CA 9108
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
San Diego County Office of Military and Veterans Affairs — veterans services
5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310
San Diego, CA 92193
Phone: 858-694-3222
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
San Diego Public Library’s Veterans Resource Center — outreach
San Diego Central Library, Room 316
330 Park Blvd.
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-236-5800
Hours: Wednesdays, 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) — Post 7766 Rancho Bernardo
16955 Bernardo Oaks Drive
San Diego, CA 92128
Phone: 858-900-8422
Meets the third Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV) — Chapter 2
700 E. Naples Ct.
Chula Vista, CA 91911
Phone: 619-337-9257
Meets the first Monday of every month at 7:30 p.m.
Medi-Cal is California’s Medicaid program for people of low-income status. Medi-Cal covers health care services that occur in senior living, but it doesn’t cover the cost of memory care room and board. In addition, your loved one’s memory care facility must be approved by Medi-Cal in order for health care services to be covered.[05]
You can help your loved one apply for Medi-Cal through Covered California, which is the state’s health care portal that offers Medi-Cal and full-coverage health care plans to residents with low-income status. The online portal will also help you learn whether your loved one qualifies for Medi-Cal.
For assistance with Medi-Cal and its application process, you can use any of the resources below:
- Contact the Medi-Cal Rx Customer Service Center or the city’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman for application assistance.
- Review California’s Medi-Cal program guide and the Department of Health Care Services Medi-Cal qualifications.
- Dial 2-1-1 San Diego and make an appointment to enroll in Medi-Cal.
- When you’re ready, apply for Medi-Cal directly through the county or through Covered California.
San Diego resident Medicaid resources
Medi-Cal Rx Customer Service Center
Phone: 800-977-2273
Hours: 24/7, including holidays
Find your local Long-Term Care Ombudsman
5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310
San Diego, CA 92193
Phone: 800-640-4661
Medi-Cal through San Diego County
1600 Pacific Highway, Room 206
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 619-515-6555
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Medi-Cal through Covered California
1879 Logan Ave. J
San Diego, CA 92113
Phone: 800-300-1506
Hours: Monday through Friday, 5 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Saturdays, 5 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program for seniors who are age 65 or older. Because Medicare only covers medical costs, it won’t cover the cost of room and board in a memory care facility.[06] However, some of your senior loved one’s medical expenses that occur during their time in memory care may be covered by Medicare.
Medicare has three parts that covers each of the following medical expenses:
- Medicare Part A covers inpatient hospital stays, hospice care, and some home health care.
- Medicare Part B covers preventive services, medical supplies, outpatient care, and some doctors’ appointments.
- Medicare Part D covers certain vaccines and prescription medications.[06]
If your loved one is enrolled in Medicare, they may be able to use one of four Medicare Savings Programs in California. Find coverage options for one or a combination of the three Medicare parts and apply online. You can also use any of the following resources for assistance with your loved one’s Medicare application and benefits:
- Contact the San Diego Social Security Administration Office or the local Aging and Independence Services for Medicare information and application assistance.
- Use the local Long-Term Care Ombudsman program for further assistance and advocacy.
- Receive support from the county’s Financial/Legal and Health Insurance Services via the Medicare Counseling program.
San Diego resident Medicare resources
San Diego County — Financial/Legal and Health Insurance Services
Phone: 800-339-4661
Find your local Long-Term Care Ombudsman
5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310
San Diego, CA 92193
Phone: 800-640-4661
San Diego Social Security Administration Office 1333 Front St.
San Diego, CA 92101
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
San Diego Aging and Independence Services
5560 Overland Ave., Suite 310
San Diego, CA 92193
Phone: 858-495-5885
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Understand California laws and regulations for memory care facilities
Understanding local memory care laws and regulations can help you find a facility that’s best for your loved one. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) licenses memory care facilities in and near San Diego. Memory care communities must follow each of the following regulations to maintain their license:
- Assess each senior via interviews and health record reviews prior to move-in
- House no more than two residents per bedroom
- Provide individual privacy in each bathroom
- Ensure bedrooms have enough room to accommodate equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers
- Provide clean and accessible common rooms for residents
- Provide activities involving social, leisure, and daily living skills[07]
Caregiver requirements
Caregivers in San Diego memory care facilities must comply with specialized training and staff-to-resident ratios. Each caregiver needs to have a minimum of 8 hours of annual training on dementia-specific care. In addition, all memory care facilities are required to have one staff member awake and on duty at night. If there are more than 16 residents in the community, at least one staff member must be on call.[08]
Inspections
The CDSS performs inspections annually and within 10 days of receiving a complaint about a memory care facility.[08] You can find licensed facilities and their inspection reports on the CDSS Care Facility Search. Scroll down to “Search By Facility Group,” select “Elderly Assisted Living,” select the “Facility Type” and “San Diego County,” then click on the search button. You can also search by facility name or address.
California Department of Health contact information
California Department of Public Health
1616 Capitol Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95899-7377
Phone: 916-558-1784
COVID-19 regulations for San Diego memory care facilities
San Diego County encourages all residents to stay current with COVID-19 vaccines and to get tested if they have symptoms. Residents aren’t required to wear a mask in public unless they have COVID-19 symptoms, had a recent positive test, or were exposed to the virus. Many at-risk settings, such as long-term senior care facilities, require masks.
Read the most recent San Diego County COVID-19 guidelines here.
Vaccinations. San Diego County encourages all citizens to stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations.
Masking. Masks aren’t required in public unless you have COVID-19, have been exposed to COVID-19, or are visiting an at-risk setting.
Facility cleanliness. Surfaces and shared items are routinely cleaned and disinfected with a hospital-grade disinfectant.
Staff safety. Staff are given personal protective equipment (PPE) and are routinely screened for COVID-19 symptoms.
What to expect from memory care living in San Diego
If your loved one is experiencing memory loss, there are many care options for them in San Diego. Memory care communities are specialized senior living communities equipped with highly trained caregivers and therapies. San Diego’s memory care facilities also offer enriching amenities and activities, often within larger senior care communities.
Supportive caregivers and therapies
Caregivers in San Diego memory care communities are required to receive extensive memory care training to support seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Not only are your loved one’s future caregivers well-equipped to assist them, but they’re also able to support your loved one with important therapies.
Therapies for memory care can help your loved one cope with and use strategies for their dementia symptoms. Reminiscence therapy, physical exercise, and art therapy are among some of the options available in San Diego memory care communities. Some communities may also encourage pet visits and pet therapy to boost residents’ moods and provide temporary animal companionship.
Several communities also include on-site therapeutic destinations. Meditation gardens, koi ponds, and calming spas can help seniors feel at peace during challenging times. Enclosed courtyards and walking paths are another common feature in San Diego memory care communities. Having enclosed spaces that are easy to navigate can help seniors feel calmer during moments of wandering, which is a symptom of dementia. Other helpful design features found in memory care communities include room personalization and visual markers to help seniors move safely through their environment.
Meaningful activities and amenities
San Diego memory care communities are designed to keep residents engaged, and they do so by offering activity programming that may include the following:
- Beach outings via scenic bus routes
- Interfaith services
- Art classes
- Fitness programs
- High tea
- Holiday celebrations
- Resident-bonding activities, like movie and trivia nights
Senior-specific amenities also keep each day interesting. Memory care communities in San Diego may include the following desirable features:
- Ocean views
- Private beach access
- Gourmet meals consisting of local produce and seafood
- Restaurant-style venues
- Koi ponds and therapy gardens
- Full-service salon and barber shop
- Heated outdoor swimming pools
- Virtual reality fitness centers
Connected to more senior care
Many of A Place for Mom’s partner memory care communities in San Diego are part of either larger assisted living facilities or continuing care retirement communities (or CCRCs). Both options offer multiple types of senior care on one campus, enabling your senior family member to get the care they need as they age without having to move.
In several of these multilevel care options, you’ll find a variety of room styles. From studio apartments to two-bedroom apartments with private and semi-private options, you can find something that works best for your loved one. Some of these larger senior care communities also have specific memory care neighborhoods while still maintaining the connection to the rest of the facility.
Group homes and stand-alone memory care
Group homes provide assisted living and memory care services in smaller settings. Also known as residential care homes, they can provide the memory support your loved one needs in a homelike setting instead of a larger facility. Group homes may also have a higher caregiver-to-resident ratio and either private or semi-private rooms.
Stand-alone communities are facilities that only offer memory care services to seniors with dementia. They offer amenities and activity programming similar to other senior care facilities, like gourmet meals, chauffeured transportation, and engaging San Diego excursions. Some families find peace of mind knowing that their loved one receives care in a community designed specifically for their memory care needs.
San Diego memory care services and amenities
Availability of select care services in San Diego memory care
Availability of select dementia care services in San Diego memory care
Availability of select dietary accommodations in San Diego memory care
Availability of select dining options in San Diego memory care
Availability of select programs and activities in San Diego memory care
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Unfamiliar with San Diego? Highlights for seniors
Number of residents in San Diego who are 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of the San Diego population that is 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Average high temperature (Fahrenheit) in August, San Diego’s warmest month, according to Weather Spark
Health care for seniors in San Diego
Seniors who live in San Diego memory care communities have access to nationally ranked hospitals, including the top three hospitals in San Diego.
UC San Diego Health – La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals
UC San Diego Health – La Jolla and Hillcrest Hospitals are ranked as the No. 1 hospitals in San Diego. These teaching hospitals provide general and surgical care. They’re nationally ranked for several areas of adult care, including cancer surgeries, cardiology, and their geriatric clinic.
Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla
Scripps Memorial Hospital La Jolla is the No. 2 hospital in San Diego, and it provides general and surgical care. They’re nationally ranked for cardiology and orthopedics.
Sharp Memorial Hospital
Sharp Memorial Hospital is ranked No. 3 in San Diego and is nationally ranked for lung surgery and urology. This hospital also provides general medical and surgical care, in addition to having geriatric specialists and several senior resource centers.
Transportation for seniors in San Diego
The majority of San Diego memory care facilities in A Place for Mom’s network have senior transportation services. In fact, 85% of these facilities provide either complimentary or at-cost transportation, giving seniors access to a safe and reliable form of local transportation.
San Diego residents and visitors can change their mode of transportation depending on the neighborhood. Some areas are walkable and have heavy motor vehicle traffic, while other areas are more easily accessed by car. However, public transportation is one of the more accessible methods for visitors in San Diego.
San Diego Public Transportation has a program called PRONTO that enables riders to buy their tickets online through an app. These public transportation options are available to San Diego residents and visitors alike:
- The San Diego Trolley allows people to travel as far north as the VA medical center, as far south as the Mexican border, and everywhere in between.
- The COASTER train is a great option for people who want to spend a day at the beach, as the train has routes to several popular beach communities, such as Carlsbad and Solana Beach.
- There are several local buses with a variety of routes.
- The SPRINTER is the city’s light rail, which offers convenient routes for a small fare.
- Pedicabs are available for enjoyable tours of unique San Diego locations.
- Amtrak’s Pacific Surfliner is a popular train for touring around Southern California.
San Diego also has transportation options designed with seniors in mind:
- Happy2Help Transportation uses wheelchair-accessible vehicles to help seniors travel to and from medical and nonmedical appointments for a fee.
- Ride FACT is another senior-specific option with low prices. Seniors at least 60 years of age are eligible and must schedule their transportation in advance.
Senior activities in San Diego
World-renowned attractions, picturesque beaches, and unique entertainment for all ages await San Diego seniors and their visitors. Whether it’s for a memory care community outing or a visit with loved ones, this city has something for everyone. Check out the San Diego Tourism Authority’s website for updates on things to do and local guides for San Diego visitors and residents alike.
Accessible theme parks
Wheelchair rentals, tour scripts, and accessibility guides can help people with disabilities access the city’s entertainment. Browse San Diego’s most popular attractions that offer accommodations for people with varying cognitive and physical abilities:
- Explore the San Diego Zoo Safari park and take advantage of senior discounts.
- Visit the USS Midway Museum for a taste of local history.
- Gaze upon stunning aquariums and catch a family-friendly show at SeaWorld San Diego.
- Take a guided tour and learn about the unique wildlife at the San Diego Zoo.
- Visit Balboa Park, a historic site and 1,000-acre park with serene nature areas as well as entertainment venues, cafes, and museums.
Stunning coastal experiences
Beyond the ocean views and beach access that San Diego’s memory care communities offer, you’ll find that the city has many opportunities for residents and visitors to experience a beachfront lifestyle:
- Explore tide pools, unique shops, and rocky cliffs at La Jolla Shores and Cove.
- Take a day trip to Coronado Island, where you can lounge on the beach and enjoy coastal cafes.
- Walk along Crystal Pier and the sandy shores at Pacific Beach.
- Visit South Mission Beach for all of the sand and sun without the busy crowds.
Casual San Diego living
Senior residents and their visitors can live like locals by enjoying San Diego’s best restaurants, pristine parks, sporting events, and more:
- Stroll through Old Town San Diego, the city’s historic downtown area.
- Find every cuisine imaginable in San Diego’s popular restaurants, from seafood fine dining experiences to unique steakhouses.
- Catch a San Diego Padres game in Petco Park.
- Catch a rugby or lacrosse game at Snapdragon Stadium.
- See the latest theatrical comedies, popular musicals, and more at The Old Globe and San Diego Theatres.
- Visit one of San Diego’s local senior centers.
- Cozy up with a favorite book at the San Diego Public Library.
Frequently Asked Questions
Silvergate Rancho Bernardo, Cypress Court and Monte Vista Village are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near San Diego, CA. These Memory Care facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Memory Care in San Diego is $5,877 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
The 52 memory care facilities near you in San Diego, California typically provide housing, therapies, and care tailored to those who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. To find memory care in San Diego, California, browse our detailed listings showing photos, floor plans, amenities, activities, and reviews from real families.
Browse A Place for Mom’s listings for memory care in San Diego, California, to take a virtual tour. Our local senior living experts can arrange for a live tour of these communities as well.
The cost of memory care facilities in San Diego, California ranges from $1100 to $30000. The average Memory Care cost in San Diego, California is $5,877. Prices often vary based on care provided, amenities, unit size, and more.
The cost of memory care in San Diego, California typically starts at $1100. A Place for Mom’s local, expert senior living advisors can help you find affordable memory care facilities near you and offer advice on how to lower costs and pay for care with VA benefits or public payment options.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Sex by age by veteran status for the civilian population 18 years and over (B21001) [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). Eligibility for Veterans Pension.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance.
Department of Health Care Services. (2019, November 19). Medi-Cal eligibility & covered California FAQ’s.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What’s Medicare? Medicare.gov.
State of California Health and Human Services Agency Department of Social Services. (2008). Manual of Policies and Procedures Community Care Licensing Division: Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE), title 22, division 6, chapter 8.
California Assisted Living Association. (2015). California compendium of residential care and assisted living regulations and policy.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Coronavirus disease (2019) preparedness checklist for nursing homes and other long-term care settings.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Weather Spark. (2022). Average temperature in San Diego.
U.S. World and News Report. (2022). Best hospitals in San Diego, California.
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