What's the difference between assisted living and memory care in California?

Assisted living in California supports residents with daily activities (bathing, dressing, medication management) while preserving independence. Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living for residents living with Alzheimer's or dementia, and adds 24/7 secured environments, dementia-trained staff, and structured routines designed to reduce confusion and wandering.

Does California Medicaid cover memory care?

California Medicaid does not directly pay room-and-board for memory care, but most states (including California) offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can offset the cost of care services delivered inside a licensed community. Eligibility, waitlists, and covered services vary — check directly with the state Medicaid agency.

Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living for residents living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia, with secured environments, dementia-trained staff, and routines built to reduce confusion and wandering.

How many memory care communities are listed on this page?

This page features 12 memory care communities in Contra Costa County, CA. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right memory care community in Contra Costa County, CA?

Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Contra Costa County, CA, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.

What should I look for when visiting memory care communities in Contra Costa County, CA?

Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.

Page 2 of the Best Memory Care in Contra Costa County, CA: 12 Communities (2026)


Oak Creek Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Community	MC AL HOS	Castro Valley	49 Facility 49 CA AVG 103 Rank #990 / 1,492	No	4 Facility 4 CA AVG 57 Rank #1,848 / 1,887	-	-	Asram Living LLC	Studio
Hillendale Home Care	MC HC RC	Walnut Creek	-	No	82 Facility 82 CA AVG 57 Rank #325 / 1,887	24 Facility 24 CA AVG 13 Rank #258 / 1,452	A+	-	-

Oak Creek Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Community

HOS

Castro Valley

Asram Living LLC

Studio

Hillendale Home Care

Walnut Creek

A+

Overview of Oak Creek Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Community

Set foot in the welcoming community of Oak Creek Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care Community in Castro Valley, CA, which offers specialized memory care in a secure and nurturing environment. The highly skilled and dedicated team provides round-the-clock supervision and tailored services to meet the unique needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Experience the difference at Oak Creek: Enjoy comfortable accommodations, nutritious meals, engaging activities, and holistic care. The community is designed to foster meaningful interactions and support overall well-being. Participate in specialized activities focusing on keeping the mind, body, and spirit active and engaged. Meet new companions within the beautifully created spaces of the community. Discover why Oak Creek is the ideal choice for your loved one. Schedule a tour today and see for yourself.

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Overview of Hillendale Home Care

Hillendale Home Care is an award-winning community in Walnut Creek, CA, that offers home care. Older adults experience the highest quality of care for their special needs with a respectful and well-trained team available 24/7. The community also provides specialized care to enhance the quality of life of those with dementia, Parkinson’s, and diabetes, ensuring their comfort and safety.

With cheerful and friendly companions, older adults will surely live a vibrant lifestyle that aims to keep them socially engaged and physically active. The community also helps with meal planning and preparation, light housekeeping, and daily living activities to ensure maintenance-free living. Medication reminders and transportation services are also available for older adults’ convenience. Serving Contra Costa, Alameda, and Sonoma counties, the community strives to deliver exceptional care to ensure older adults spend a blissful retirement in the comforts of their homes.

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