Guides for families

Choosing care for a loved one is a big, often urgent decision. These short guides explain the basics in plain language — no jargon, no sales pitch.

• Types of senior care explained

  Assisted living vs. memory care vs. skilled nursing vs. home health — what each offers and who it's for.

• How to pay for senior care in California

  Private pay, long-term care insurance, VA benefits, Medi-Cal, and Medicare — your options, in plain language.

• Signs it may be time for memory care

  Safety, health, and caregiver signs that a loved one with dementia may need memory care.

• Understanding a facility's license

  What the license types and statuses mean — and how to verify any facility against the official state record.

• Questions to ask on a tour

  A plain-spoken checklist to bring when you tour or call a facility.

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