Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer’s, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As San Francisco’s population continues to grow (9.7% between 2010 and 2018) so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In San Francisco, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease decreased by 8% between 2013 and 2018, showing that while Alzheimer’s is a serious concern in the region, the associated deaths have decreased recently. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is higher than the rest of the nation (9.9% in San Francisco vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
To help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of cognitive impairment find the support and care their loved ones need, we applied our unique methodology and spent nearly two dozen hours researching senior living communities in San Francisco. In addition to an overview of the communities’ best features, this guide highlights the best memory care facilities in the city, and gives information about pricing, types of care provided, residents’ reviews, and more.
In order to help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's find the support and care that their loved ones need, we've compiled information below about the cost of Memory Care, how to get financial assistance to help make care more affordable, free resources, etc. Also included are reviews of the best memory care facilities in the area, which cover pricing, types of care provided, residents' reviews, and more.
When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered price information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in San Francisco and 139 other cities in California.
Inflation's impact on memory care costs in San Francisco, CA, and its neighboring cities is strikingly evident. From 2022 to 2023, San Francisco's costs surged by around 10.5%, rising from $7,742 to $8,547. This rate of increase aligns with the U.S. average growth of roughly 10.5%. The cities of Santa Cruz, Oceanside and Long Beach additionally experienced near similar growth rates of approximately 10.5%. Projections for 2024 suggest further escalation: California could face an additional hike of 10%, while San Francisco faces 8%. With costs continuing to rise, the necessity of early financial planning for senior care becomes increasingly paramount.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
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San Francisco | $7,742 | $8,547 | $9,221 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
California | $5,668 | $5,866 | $6,453 |
Santa Cruz | $7,699 | $8,500 | $9,170 |
Oceanside | $4,834 | $5,337 | $5,757 |
Long Beach | $4,618 | $5,098 | $5,500 |
In San Francisco, the costs of different senior care types vary notably, with memory care priced at $8,547, assisted living at $7,777 and independent living at $6,110. These cost discrepancies arise from factors such as the specialized medical care and enhanced security measures unique to memory care, the wide-ranging services and amenities provided in assisted living and the added personal space and facilities associated with independent living.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for memory care out-of-pocket, it's important to find alternative methods to help make memory care more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making memory care more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in California.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in San Francisco, CA. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the type of care they provide for easy reference.
For more information about resources throughout the state and in nearby cities, we recommend visiting the California state page on memorycare.com.
The Area Agency on Aging in San Francisco is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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San Francisco Human Services Agency Disability + Aging Services | 415-355-3555 | The network of Area Agencies on Aging, overseen by the California Department of Aging, provides various programs to support the well-being of older residents. These programs, funded by the state and federal government, include senior nutrition, care management, and Medicare counseling. Low-income seniors can also participate in volunteer programs like the Senior Companion Program and the Senior Community Service Employment Program to contribute to their communities. |
Financial assistance initiatives exist in San Francisco to help seniors with low income sustain their home living. These initiatives provide tax reductions, discounts on crucial services, and aid for home temperature regulation costs.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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County Adult Assistance Programs (CAAP) - San Francisco | 855-355-5757 | San Francisco's County Adult Assistance Programs offer vital aid to low-income adults and elderly individuals who may not qualify for other government assistance. CAAP provides financial support, healthcare coverage, and essential services to ensure vulnerable residents can access basic necessities and medical care. Benefits are distributed monthly on an Electronic Benefit Transfer card, which functions like a bank card and can be used for purchases or cash withdrawals. |
General Assistance - San Francisco | 800-223-8383 | Financial aid for rent and utilities is available to older adults in San Mateo County, CA. Eligibility requires proof of income and resources, as well as residency documentation showing 15 consecutive days of living in the county. Applications can be submitted by mail or in person at a County of San Mateo Human Services Agency office. |
Seniors in San Francisco who wish to age comfortably at home can access financial assistance. Numerous local organizations offer help with costs such as home care, home modifications, and utilities.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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IHSS Independent Provider Assistance Center (IPAC) | 415-355-6700 | The In-Home Supportive Services Program offers financial aid for home-based services, allowing eligible individuals to stay in their homes. Covered services include meal prep, house cleaning, personal care, and grocery shopping. |
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) - San Francisco | 415-355-6700 | The In-Home Supportive Services Program offers financial aid for home-based services, allowing eligible individuals to stay in their homes. Covered services include meal prep, house cleaning, personal care, and grocery shopping. |
In San Francisco, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Meals on Wheels San Francisco | 415-920-1111 | Meals on Wheels San Francisco offers daily delivery of fresh and frozen meals, along with grocery bundles, to seniors aged 60 and above. Eligibility is determined by factors such as being housebound, living alone or with a caregiver, struggling with meal preparation or shopping, or recent hospitalization. No single factor alone determines eligibility. Additional free social services, including daily check-ins, are also provided. |
San Francisco-Marin Food Bank | 415-282-1900 | The San Francisco-Marin Food Bank aids low-income seniors by offering complimentary grocery delivery to those who are unable to leave their homes. Volunteers deliver a bag containing fresh produce, dairy, lean proteins, and fruits, encouraging self-sufficiency and promoting a healthy lifestyle for seniors who are still able to cook. Active seniors can also visit the organization's pantries, where volunteers help them select a box of groceries. |
In San Francisco, several organizations are tackling the high cost of new medical devices. They collect lightly used equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, distributing them to local elderly and those requiring assistance.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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The ReCARES Network - San Francisco | 415-487-5405 | The ReCARES Network in San Francisco provides free, gently used health care and safety equipment to seniors and those in need. Donations of mobility aids, bedroom and bathroom aids, incontinence supplies, adaptive equipment, and breathing aids are accepted. Seniors can choose from three convenient locations in the city, and no Medicare, health insurance, or ID is necessary. |
In San Francisco, elderly individuals find a community hub in senior centers, offering a range of recreational pursuits, events, and essential resources. These centers also provide health programs, dietary advice, and support for issues related to senior living.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Bayview Hunters Point Adult Day Health Care Center | 415-826-4774 | The Bayview Hunters Point Adult Day Health Care Center is a community resource that offers specialized care and support for older adults who may be homebound or isolated. Services include personal care assistance, nutritious meals, and opportunities for social interaction. Additional services include medication management, physical therapy, counseling, and nursing assistance. Recreational programming such as exercises, dance parties, and arts and crafts are also available. |
Bayview Senior Connections | 415-822-1444 | Bayview Senior Connections in San Francisco offers essential social services and healthcare to African American seniors at their inclusive community centers. Their Adult Day Health Center provides specialized care like physical therapy, speech therapy, and counseling, along with enjoyable recreational activities such as fitness sessions, dance parties, and special celebrations. Seniors can also enjoy nutritious hot meals through their popular nutrition program. |
Golden State Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) | 415-387-2750 | Golden State Adult Day Health Care provides a safe and caring environment for seniors to enhance their overall health and vitality. Our wide range of services includes physical and speech therapies, massage treatments, nutrition counseling, medication management, and nursing care. We also offer nutritious meals and engaging activities. Eligible residents of San Francisco, San Mateo, Pacifica, Daly City, and select areas of Oakland can enroll in our program. |
Institute on Aging - San Francisco | 415-750-4111 | The Institute on Aging provides care services for seniors aged 65 and above. IOA CONNECT connects seniors with programs and community services like PACE, counseling, and caregiver training. MSSP offers skilled nurses and social workers to support chronically ill seniors at home. Legal and financial assistance, including representative payee and trustee services, are also available. The 24/7 Friendship Line provides nonemergency emotional support and crisis intervention. |
Mission Neighborhood Centers | 415-206-7752 | Mission Neighborhood Centers provides a range of group activities and wellness programs for seniors in San Francisco. From music lessons and arts workshops to exercise classes and social outings, there's something for everyone. Seniors can also enjoy congregate meals and socialize with others from 12 to 1 p.m. on weekdays. Join us at one of our citywide locations for a fun and engaging experience. |
OMI (Oceanview, Merced Heights, and Ingleside) Senior Center | 415-334-5550 | The OMI senior center, backed by the San Francisco Department of Human Services, offers congregate meals, social activities, and caregiver support for seniors aged 60 and above. Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Membership registration is mandatory. Seniors are encouraged to contribute $2 for meals, with the choice to waive. Visitors must wear masks and provide proof of vaccination. |
San Francisco Senior Centers | 415-202-7805 | San Francisco offers two senior centers for adults with disabilities and those aged 60+. One is at Aquatic Park, open weekdays, while the other downtown is open daily. Buses are provided for transportation. Activities include exercise classes, meal sharing, meditation, ceramics, and assistance with applications and referrals. |
Self Help for the Elderly - Geen Mun Senior Center | 415-677-7600 | Self-Help for the Elderly provides essential support to seniors aged 60 and above in San Francisco's Chinatown community. At the Geen Mun Senior Center on Stockton Street, seniors can enjoy daily nutritious meals, participate in engaging activities like tai chi and yoga, and attend educational workshops. Blood pressure monitoring is also available to promote wellness and independence. The center is open Monday through Saturday. |
Stepping Stone Senior Centers - San Francisco | 415-359-9210 | SteppingStone in San Francisco, CA provides health care and social support to seniors with chronic conditions or disabilities. Their personalized care plans aim to enhance independence and well-being. Seniors receive physical therapy, wellness checks, medication management, nutritious meals, and social support during each 4-hour visit. SteppingStone offers services in English, Cantonese, Mandarin, Spanish, Korean, and Vietnamese. |
Toolworks' ADRC | 415-733-0990 | Toolworks' Aging and Disability Resource Center in San Francisco is a one-stop destination for seniors and low-income individuals in need of social services and community support. It offers help with affordable housing, SNAP enrollment, public transportation vouchers, and other aid programs. The center provides expert case management and ASL services for the deaf. |
In San Francisco, numerous initiatives are in place to keep seniors involved and energetic. These encompass health programs, opportunities for volunteer work, and supportive communities, all designed to promote social participation and improve the quality of life.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Memory Cafe Ruth's Table | 415-642-1000 | The charity provides dementia-friendly programs, including the Crossroads Cafe. This initiative offers a safe space for seniors with memory loss to socialize, enjoy meals, and participate in leisure activities. The cafe features guided museum tours and supervised bocce ball games, creating a secure environment for individuals facing cognitive challenges. |
Openhouse - San Francisco | 415-347-8509 | Openhouse - San Francisco is a community center dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ seniors and adults with disabilities. Our programs include social gatherings, lunch discussions, senior-led groups, film screenings, movement classes, cultural events, and advocacy groups. These activities are free to participate in and are supported by the San Francisco Department of Human Services Department of Aging and Disability Services. Join us for upcoming events by signing up online. |
UCSF Memory and Aging Center | 415-353-2057 | The UCSF Memory and Aging Center is a respected research hospital that offers comprehensive support for Emeryville families affected by dementia. From diagnosis to long-term care, the center provides expert treatment and resources. Family caregivers receive information, training, and a 10-step planning process to empower them. UCSF also operates a Community Outreach program to improve access to clinical services in Emeryville and the Bay Area. (68 words) |
In the city of San Francisco, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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San Francisco Social Security Offices | 800-772-1213 | Social Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings. |
In San Francisco, there are establishments ready to assist seniors with limited income facing challenges with home upkeep expenses, such as energy and utility bills. Emergency financial support might be available for individuals threatened with utility disconnection due to outstanding payments.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program - San Franscisco | 866-675-6623 | The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible households with utility bill management, while the LIHEAP Energy Crisis Prevention Program (ECPP) offers financial aid to low-income households facing energy-related emergencies. For example, the ECPP provides assistance to homeowners at risk of power disconnection. |
In San Francisco, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.
program-name | phone-number | description |
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San Francisco Vet Center | 415-441-5051 | The San Francisco Vet Center offers free and confidential counseling and support services for veterans and their loved ones. Telehealth appointments ensure accessibility for all, providing counseling for individuals, groups, families, and couples. Specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety, trauma, and grief, the center also collaborates with Project Homeless Connect to assist homeless veterans. |
According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 83% of all caregivers are unpaid family members, relatives, or other friends, and nearly half of all care is for older adults with some form of dementia. Caregiving, especially when it involves Alzheimer’s or dementia, is extremely exhausting and time-consuming, leading many caregivers to feel isolated and overwhelmed.
As a loved one continues to progress through the stages of dementia and his or her cognitive abilities continue to decline, behavioral problems, safety, and general care often become more than one caregiver can handle. This is when it’s important to find extra help, and residential facilities that have specialized memory care programs are often the best solution.
In addition to providing a safe environment, memory care programs seek to delay or halt cognitive decline while providing the opportunity for a social, independent lifestyle.
To choose the best memory care facilities in San Francisco, our team of researchers started by using our unique methodology to develop a list of contenders. We further refined the list in the next phase of our process by completing hands-on research for each one of the companies that we developed. Finally, we compiled online reviews from residents and families and wrote summaries of each facility that made it through our selection process.
Overall, our team:
Cadence Millbrae is a large retirement community in South San Francisco, just minutes from the airport and Green Hills Country Club. This facility offers independent and assisted living as well as memory care. Residents with memory loss issues live in a separate, secure neighborhood as part of the Revere Memory Care program. The Revere neighborhood has a dedicated staff with unique training that focuses on a relationship-based model of care that respects the individuality of each resident. Common areas are designed to help people with Alzheimer's and other dementias get around independently, and there are secure outdoor areas for those who like to walk or try their hand at gardening. Activities are centered around creativity and engagement and include daily art classes, trivia, and brain games.
A visitor to Cadence Millbrae comments on the helpful staff and delicious lunch he had, and says, "The apartment was very nice. It was a perfect size. Their lobby looked classy. Another reviewer says the staff takes good care of his mother-in-law and adds, "The food is excellent.
Frank Residences San Francisco Campus for Jewish Living offers daily opportunities for seniors to build connections with fellow residents and lead purposeful lives. A full array of upscale amenities are available to residents, including a bocce ball court, library, art studio, indoor therapy pool, and a movie theater. The facility is pet-friendly, and even offers an on-site dog park. A secure neighborhood-like environment is provided for memory care residents, which includes spacious common areas, family-style kitchens, and an on-site concierge service. The facility offers an array of meaningful activities, comprehensive programming and innovative therapies specifically designed for seniors with dementia, and each resident receives a personal tablet where they have access to online campus resources. Housekeeping and flat linen services help seniors enjoy a carefree lifestyle, and residents are treated to a restaurant-style dining experience each day with rotating seasonal menus.
People are consistently impressed with the professional behavior and friendly demeanor of staff members, and their effective communication with residents' family members. The facility is also regarded for having a "very good gym" and "nice private rooms," and residents enjoy the selection of daily classes, including art and history lessons and music activities.
Lakeshore Residential Care, located in the commercial district of Oakland, California, is a senior living community that offers a full range of assisted living services. Specialized care is given to more fragile seniors living with Alzheimers, dementia and other forms of memory loss. Services include medication supervision, incontinence care, diabetic management, and transfer assistance. Residents have a choice of well-furnished shared or private rooms, all located on the ground floor and wheelchair accessible to aid in safe mobility. An on-site licensed nurse regularly monitors residents health and updates physicians and families to promptly address any issues. Daily activities are based on individual resident care plans and include fitness, social, educational and spiritual programs. Transportation services are scheduled for medical and dental appointments, as well as family gatherings.
Reviewers noted the high level of care the residents receive while being allowed some degree of independence. Theres plenty of room to walk around, and the staff gets praised for the support they provide. One reviewer says, "Lakeshore Residential Care in Oakland has made a huge, positive change in the life of a friend. The facility is clean, I smell delicious food cooking when I visit. The staff is always busy.
Marymount Villa Retirement Center has a perfect downtown location in San Leandro, California, keeping seniors close to commercial establishments and city services, as well as minutes away from Oaklands international airport and downtown district. Together with a range of long-term care services, health care services may be coordinated with medical professionals when needed. The facilitys welcoming common areas include a themed restaurant-style dining room, activity and community rooms, lounge areas on each floor, a large veranda overlooking Casa Peralta and landscaped grounds with sitting areas. For safety and peace of mind, attentive staff is on 24-hour duty, and residents are provided with emergency alert pendants. Memory care residents enjoy therapeutic activities that provide mental and physical stimulation and encourage socialization, and they benefit from nursing consultations and personalized care in a secure environment.
Positive comments about Marymount Villa mention the facilitys family atmosphere and kind staff. One reviewer writes, "This is a loving environment that doesn't smell like a hospital. Knowledgeable staff and homey atmosphere relieve the stress with patients transitioning into their new environment. They provide great support to families as well, in counseling them on what to expect with impaired awareness brought on by dementia.
Oakmont of Mariner Point is a luxurious retirement community tucked in a beautiful neighborhood with lovely views and convenient access to nearby shopping, dining, arts and entertainment venues. Memory care residents are encouraged to participate in purposeful activities that promote physical, mental and social wellness. A full-time nurse supervises the Traditions program, specifically designed for those with advanced memory loss. The program is aimed at creating a soothing environment through specialized music, sensory and tactile stimulation activities. Residents are assured of quality care, with a competent staff hand-selected for their skills and experience and continuously trained in dementia care. A variety of accommodation options are available and are built around functionally designed surroundings that create familiarity and support easy navigation. Oakmonts premier lifestyle is further enhanced with exquisite dining options featuring restaurant-style services and private celebrations with families.
The luxurious setting, community amenities, good food and proximity to shops and restaurants are largely praised by reviewers. Families appreciate that residents are kept engaged and have access to different levels of care, with one saying, "They have lots of activities for their residents. And a resident is able to move into Memory Care from Assisted Living if needed.
Providence Place is an upscale senior living and memory care community in the Anza Vista neighborhood of San Francisco that's situated near several world-class medical facilities, including UCSF Medical Center at Mount Zion. As a family-owned and -operated facility, Providence Place brings a unique touch to memory care with a focus on empathy, respect, and professionalism. Staff must go through a specialized training program that includes hands-on instruction and experience. These professionals coordinate with outside doctors and health care providers to ensure residents receive the optimal level of care. The full-time activities staff schedules a variety of unique events both on-site and throughout the city. Residents are free to participate in everything from aromatherapy and art classes to exercise sessions and field trips.
Positive reviews for Providence Place consistently mention the friendly and professional staff. A relative of one resident said, "They have so much experience caring for seniors that they know just what to do when anything comes up." Reviewers also mention the cleanliness and elegant design of the facility's interior.
Rhoda Goldman Plaza offers assisted living and memory care in the Lower Pacific Heights neighborhood of San Francisco, California, and is located next to UCSF Medical Center at Mount Zion. While this facility is built upon the values of Judaism, residents of all faiths are welcome. Seniors can exercise at the on-site fitness center, read in the community library or update their look at the full-service beauty salon. They can also participate in singalongs, poetry readings and craft-making projects. The Terrace therapeutic programming is designed to increase memory care residents quality of life by stimulating their cognitive, creative and physical abilities while encouraging emotional expression. Residents of the memory care neighborhood can enjoy meals in a distinct dining room that provides views of a nearby park and library.
Families compliment Rhoda Goldman Plaza for its delicious food, tasteful decor and kind staff members. "The food is really tasty and nutritious! The facility is always clean, and the environment is filled with art. Staff has always been ready and willing to help with any concerns that she or I have, writes one resident's family member.
Sagebrook Senior Living at San Francisco is an assisted living and memory care community situated in the Laurel Heights neighborhood, just a few blocks from UCSF Medical Center at Mount Zion. Seniors can choose to eat in their room or dine on freshly prepared meals in the community dining room, and the staff is willing to accommodate residents dietary preferences. The New Day Memory Support neighborhood is where residents enjoy pre-planned activities designed to encourage them to live life to its fullest. Memory care residents can participate in pet therapy, make tasty treats with the baking club and engage in meditation with aromatherapy and calming melodies. They can also spend time relaxing on the facilitys secure porches and outdoor courtyards.
Sagebrook Senior Living earns rave reviews for its helpful staff members and convenient location. According to one online reviewer, "The staff was nice, and their garden was amazing It is in a good location, it is central, and for that, it is great. They had nice facilities, too.
The Avenue is an assisted living apartment building offering memory care and respite services. It's located in the Tenderloin neighborhood of downtown San Francisco next to classic diners and the 1000 Van Ness shopping mall. Residents with Alzheimer's and related dementias live in the Promenade, which is a two-floor section of the Avenue that is specially designed and staffed to provide memory care. The Promenade at the Avenue offers 24/7 staffing and an emergency call system, and nursing care is available as well as medication administration and transportation to outside appointments. Memory care residents go on trips to local educational, social and cultural sites, and the activities at the facility are chosen for their therapeutic benefits for those with Alzheimer's.
One family member says that The Avenue looks like a hotel yet feels more personal, and also says, "My grandmother has great and constant care from the staff, and the staff always seems polite, caring, respectful and overall on top of things. Another reviewer says he likes the location because of nearby public transportation.
The Point at Rockridge, located in Oakland, California, is a senior living facility that offers a sense of privacy, safety, security, and familiarity to its residents. In its memory care community, seniors participate in the Generations Memory Care program, consisting of an enriching daily regimen that helps recollect memories, enhance physical and mental well-being, and provide positive personal interactions. Care is provided through innovative and research-based programming and involves family education and support groups. Memory care residents enjoy a life of comfort and convenience in spacious, private living quarters built around secure surroundings and complemented with nutritionally balanced meals and housekeeping services. The facility has multiple common areas, including the sixth-floor lounge where residents can enjoy a scenic view of the San Francisco Bay and Golden Gate bridges.
Families appreciate the constant updates they receive from the warm, outgoing staff regarding their loved ones condition. One reviewer commented, ". my sister-in-law gets excellent care. It is very clean. They all seem to know her by name and keep in touch with us. Positive reviews also focus on the well-appointed buildings, good facility layout, elegant dining room, clean grounds, nice decorations, and great location.