109 Assisted Living Communities in Sacramento, California

The average cost of assisted living in the city is $4,473 a month. This guide is a starting point covering the cost of assisted living care in the city, as well as financing options to pay for it. You’ll find in-depth information on 109 Assisted Living Communities in Sacramento and several in surrounding areas.

• Assisted living: $4,473
• Nursing home semiprivate room: $8,517
• In-home care: $4,767
• Adult day health services: $1,733

According to the Genworth 2018 Cost of Care Study, the average monthly cost of assisted living in Sacramento is almost on par with the state average of $4,500 and higher than the national average, which is $4,000. While the cost of assisted living in many smaller cities throughout California, such as Bakersfield ($3,150) and Madera ($3,323), is less expensive than in Sacramento, the area is quite reasonably priced when compared with the cities of San Francisco and San Jose, which both have an average monthly cost of $5,500. 

There are several factors that influence the cost of care, but the type of care required is the most significant factor. The cost of nursing home care in the city is nearly double that of assisted living, and home care services are several hundred dollars more per month as well. In addition to the higher cost associated with home care, seniors who choose to continue living at home must also budget for additional costs, such as rent, groceries and utilities, which are typically included in the cost of assisted living.  Cost of Homemaker/Home Health Aide Comparison Chart

• Assisted living: $4,473

• Homemaker services: $4,767

• Home health aide: $4,957

• Adult day health: $1,733

• Nursing home care (semiprivate room): $8,517

 

California’s state Medicaid Managed Care program is called Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal provides financial support, assistive services and access to health care to low-income Californians, including seniors and individuals who are living with disabilities. Medi-Cal programs are funded in part by the state with support from the federal government. In order to apply for financial support and access necessary services, seniors who reside in assisted living facilities must apply to either the Assisted Living Waiver program or the Multipurpose Senior Services Program. 

To be eligible for these waivers, seniors must be assessed for their level of need and be determined to require daily care. Financially, individual applicants can’t have an income that exceeds $1,242 or assets valued at more than $2,000, while couples combined income shouldn’t exceed $1,682 or have assets valued at more than $3,000.  

The Assisted Living Waiver provides financial aid and services to seniors who reside in assisted living facilities. Some of the services that are covered by the Assisted Living Waiver include nurse visits, medical and dental care, physical therapy and nonemergency transportation. This waiver program only covers the cost of care and services in assisted living facilities and doesn’t cover room and board fees. 

To apply for the Assisted Living Waiver, seniors can contact their nearest care coordination agency in person or call (800) 991-6147.

The Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP) is another waiver program that operates under California’s Medi-Cal system. The waiver was created to reduce the number of seniors living in nursing homes throughout the state and reduce the stress this causes on the state’s Medicaid programs. The MSSP provides additional support to seniors who reside in assisted living facilities or at home and require a nursing level of care. The program covers a range of services including daily nurse visits, nonmedical transportation and respite care. 

The MSSP is capped at 12,000 participants, and waiting lists are common. In addition to the aforementioned eligibility requirements, seniors must be able to reside safely in an assisted community or in their home.

To learn more about the application process, seniors can contact the California Department of Health Care Services at (916) 440-7548. 

State Supplemental Payment

California’s State Supplemental Payment (SSP) is a cash benefit that may be provided to low-income seniors who reside in a residential care facility. The benefit is meant to aid seniors in paying for the cost of room and board in assisted living and nursing care facilities. Benefit payments are calculated based on the applicant’s income. The maximum SSP payment is $160.72 per month. 

This program’s financial eligibility requirements are subject to frequent change, therefore, it’s best for seniors to contact their local Social Security office at (800) 772-1213 to learn more information. 

Elderlife Bridge Loan

Elderlife Financial Services offers flexible-term, low-interest bridge loans that can provide temporary relief to seniors who need help with the cost of assisted living. Loans are issued to the senior’s residence and paid back by the senior in monthly installments. Although eligibility depends on credit history and income, seniors may include up to six cosigners on their application, which can help to increase the likelihood of approval and reduce monthly payments. Seniors can receive more information on Elderlife bridge loans by calling (888) 228-4500. 

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance policies are generally taken out later in adulthood. These policies can cover the cost of assisted living facilities, typically after an annual deductible has been met. Most long-term care insurance providers require policies to be purchased prior to the need for long-term care existing. Premiums vary depending on the provider and the amount of coverage purchased as well as the policyholder’s age and health history. 

Area Agencies on Aging are nonprofit organizations that provide a variety of services to seniors that typically include assistance with Medicaid and other benefit programs, facilitating access to community and advocacy programs.  Agency on Aging/Area 4
1401 El Camino Avenue, 4th Floor, Sacramento, California 95815
(916) 486-1876

Many seniors may be eligible for financial assistance or medical care from Veterans Affairs programs and medical clinics. To learn about available benefits and eligibility, seniors should contact their local Veterans Affairs office. 

California Department of Veterans Affairs
1227 O Street #300, Sacramento, California 95814
(800) 952-5626

Sacramento VA Medical Center
10535 Hospital Way, Mather, California 95655
(916) 843-7000

Senior Homes has an extensive directory of senior living options, with care and living providers across the United States.