About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Independent Living Communities in Los Angeles, CA

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A resort-style, maintenance-free retirement awaits seniors looking for independent living communities in Los Angeles, California. Independent living facilities are senior-only communities that are similar to senior apartments but with more convenient services. They don’t typically offer care services, but some communities have connections with third-party care services. Many Los Angeles independent living communities exist on the same campus as assisted living and memory care communities, which can provide access to care services should you need them later.

This all-inclusive guide to Los Angeles independent living has detailed information on 31 of A Place for Mom’s in-network communities, all within a 10-mile radius of the Los Angeles city center. This guide walks you through Los Angeles independent living costs, ways that seniors pay for independent living, local senior-specific resources, California laws and regulations, and what to expect from your Los Angeles retirement.

Los Angeles Independent Living Facilities | 1554 Reviews
Showing 148 communities
Last Updated: 3/15/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

Best Meals and Dining

Nutritious meals are one of the most important and valued benefits of senior living. Chefs and meal planners provide residents the right balance of vitamins and minerals – and so much more. The best make sure every dish is made with quality ingredients, tastes great and leaves diners excited for their next meal.

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Amenities
Providers
Types of care available in Los Angeles, CA
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Independent Living in Los Angeles, CA
4.9 / 5.0

very comfortable and friendly place made a lot of friends and treated very well - accommodation are very good also - transportation and help when needed

4.4 / 5.0

What our family likes the most about the Foothill Retirement community is all the team work between the staff members working there. Friendly and staff that will help care for my mom's needed especially having the understanding to care for dementia seniors. Staff also understands family's concerns. ...

5 / 5.0

Thank you Oakmont of Simi Valley for taking such amazing care of my mom who has dementia. Every single director to all the care staff have provided so much support, care, and love towards both my mother and our family. They know all of our names and constantly check in to see how we are doing and th...

Photo of Heritage Park at Woodman - Senior Apartments
22 Photos available
5 star
33%
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The cost is alright for now. All the services here is alright. The activities, they are just once a week. A social worker came only once a week for 4 or 5 hours. The only thing I think we needed is that here...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Heritage Park at Woodman is an Affordable Senior Community for 55 and over. We offer quality affordable housing with many amenities to enhance active, independent lifestyles. Heritage Park at Woodman Senior Community is operated under Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code. This special...
Photo of Commonwealth Royale Guest Home
11 Photo available
7.0
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3 reviews
7.0
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3 reviews
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It provides a meaningful service to its clients. We picked this community, because of the lower cost if sharing with a roommate with other considerations secondary but acceptable. I would recommend to others
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Commonwealth Royale Guest Home is an assisted senior living community, located in beautiful Los Angeles, California. As one ages, it may become increasingly difficult to perform activities of daily living, such as bathing, cooking and dressing. Being unable to preform these tasks significantly...
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Photo of Ivy Park at Santa Monica
1212 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
6.3
Review score
24 reviews
6.3
Review score
24 reviews
5 star
46%
4 star
29%
3 star
17%
2 star
0%
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8%
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I've been very happy with our choice of community. My father seems to be doing very well under their care. The staff are very friendly. And the location is perfect for all of his follow up visits with...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Step into a Sunrise Assisted Living community and you can't help but feel at home. We stop at nothing to make your experience warm and inviting, from our homelike exterior architecture, to our comfortable community areas and choice of suites to our exceptional outdoor gardens and landscaping....
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Photo of Vista Del Sol Care Center
11 Photo available
7.0
Review score
2 reviews
7.0
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2 reviews
5 star
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It was an extremely good price value for the care my mother received at Vista Del Sol. The place was always clean, she got good meds and medical care, and she was left alone which is what she prefers. ...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Vista Del Sol Health Services and its continuum of health services has been a vital part of the West Los Angeles Healthcare community since 1980, providing a full spectrum of care for geriatric clients and their families.·          Assisted Living
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Photo of AvantGarde Senior Living
1414 Photos available
5 star
61%
4 star
18%
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7%
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Top of the line customer service and attention to detail that really helped reassure me when placing my cousin in this facility. The property is gorgeous but the staff and administration is what made us...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
AvantGarde Senior Living and Memory Care is a premier community offering Independent Living, Assisted Living, & Memory Care and Respite Care. We are centrally located in the greater San Fernando Valley close to all major freeways and West Los Angeles. Tarzana Providence, Encino Hospitals and...
Photo of Bentley Suites
44 Photos available
5 star
33%
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Our love done moved in right before COVID, so we have not been able to visit for awhile, but we do know our loved one is happy there. Sometimes it is a little hard for us to get a hold of the staff. When we...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Bentley Suites by Specialized Community HealthcareBentley Suites offers highly trained professionals, including an RN, Medical Director, Pharmacy Consultant, Nutrition Director, and Activity Director 24/7. The facility also offers all of the amenities enjoyed in a modern Residential Care Facility...
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Photo of Broadview Residential Care Center
33 Photos available
5 star
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Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
"The Broadview is a Happy Place" Our theme song sung to the tune of "Happy Days are Here Again," describes our beautiful home. Here, you will find a pool room, chapel, fitness center, video and book libraries, resident computer and online services, art studio, large screen movie room, resident...
Photo of Villa Scalabrini
22 Photos available
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Villa Scalabrini Retirement Center in Sun Valley, CA was opened for residents' occupancy on July 16, 1979. The 90- room facility, capable of accommodating up to 130 ambulatory senior citizens in single and some double occupancy rooms, is based on the concept that seniors should spend the sunset...
Photo of Promise Assisted Living LLC
77 Photos available
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My mother is having an amazing time at this facility. They are very clean, the food is amazing and we truly enjoying having our mother at this facility.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
We promise a comfortable, beautiful and luscious living. Welcome to a world where your utter satisfaction is our major goal. We are not just people promising to bring to you a wonderful life but we also make sure that you witness the bright light of the dawn. Here at Promise Assisted Living,...
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Photo of Savant of Tarzana
88 Photos available
5 star
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3 star
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My father, who had been living at Brookdale for a couple of years, had surgery which landed him in a rehab facility for nearly 5 months. At [age removed], he was in pretty bad shape but the staff at...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
It’s good to be home.If you’re living a mostly independent lifestyle, but you could use an extra hand with some of your day-to-day activities, our assisted living Tarzana, California, could be right for you. Here you’ll have assistance with medications, dressing and bathing, as well as services...
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Photo of Brookdale Ocean House
1212 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
5 star
39%
4 star
44%
3 star
11%
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1 star
6%
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The community is sometimes short on staff. The Executive Director always has an open door to discuss things with anybody. They have activities available for the residents and some include: bridge,...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Brookdale Ocean House is an ocean-side assisted living community in Santa Monica. Many of our apartments have amazing ocean views. If food is important to you, you won’t be disappointed. Our Director of Dining Services, Joe Saldana, won best Chef de Cuisine in Southern California two years in a...
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Photo of Cedars Assisted Living
11 Photo available
5 star
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3 star
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The people at Cedars Assisted Living are great! It appears that they are trying to maintain the building, however, the rugs really need to be replaced. It is time for them to do something with the high...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Cedars Assisted LivingCedars Assisted Living is an assisted living community located in the beautiful town of Northridge, Los Angeles County, California. Our community is located in a peaceful area where you can sit and enjoy the beautiful mountains. It is a great place to live, and the perfect...
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Photo of CityView
8.6
Review score
28 reviews
8.6
Review score
28 reviews
5 star
47%
4 star
39%
3 star
0%
2 star
7%
1 star
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It is so difficult to find the perfect place to meet your elderly parents needs but I can honestly say City View is an excellent assisted living facility. My mother was in a lovely large room with a walk-in...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Vibrant Senior Living in the Heart of LA Located in one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Southern California just east of Beverly Hills, CityView residents enjoy visiting The Grove, LACMA and the Original Farmer's Market. Our community features spectacular views of the city and its...
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Photo of Los Feliz Gardens
8.0
Review score
1 review
8.0
Review score
1 review
5 star
100%
4 star
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This place is great! Have been here for a month and the food is so well planned and taste delicious. I love the way staff is right on time for my needs . The owner and family have been very helpful and ...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Fairfax Tower
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Beverly Hills Carmel Inc. North
7.0
Review score
9 reviews
7.0
Review score
9 reviews
5 star
22%
4 star
78%
3 star
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I have found Carmel to be a very comfortable, friendly and helpful facility. It is very clean, the staff and management treat residents with respect and show a sincere interest in each resident. The food is...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
 Since 1978, we have offered a great alternative for seniors who may need additional assistance with their daily routines, medication management, bathing and dressing or personal hygiene, yet do not require the intensive services of a skilled nursing facility.  With the assistance of...
Photo of Beverly Hills Carmel
5 star
60%
4 star
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I have just finished helping my mother, who is 92, move into Beverly Carmel South. You know the building is attractive and well-maintained ahead of time. You hope, first, that the staff will be caring,...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Since 1978, we have offered a great alternative for seniors who may need additional assistance with their daily routines, medication management, bathing and dressing or personal hygiene, yet do not require the intensive services of a skilled nursing facility.  With the assistance of our...
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Photo of Shalom Hotel Retirement Living
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Four Seasons Assisted Living
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Royal Bellingham
5 star
40%
4 star
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Good value coupled with a kind and attentive staff. My 84 yo mother has been a resident for 2 years and has enjoyed her stay. During spring months we enjoy sitting in the lovely interior courtyard or...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Royal Bellingham is one of the finest European style assisted and retirement living facilities in the valley. Our warm and courteous staff treat each resident with dignity and respect.An elegant dining room with three restaurant style prepared meals.Tastefully decorated room available in a...
Photo of Melrose Villas
11 Photo available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
See details
Photo of Alta Vista Gardens
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Rossmore Housing Plaza
5 star
22%
4 star
22%
3 star
34%
2 star
22%
1 star
0%
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They really are a great facility! They work so incredibly hard to accomodate needs, and fix any issues. They communicate really well, too. I visit twice a week, and have no complaints about their care or...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Sunny Hills welcomes you at the front door with familiar sights, sounds and aromas of home. There are freshly baked cookies at the Bistro, lively conversations in the parlor, laughter in the library and a helping hand when you need it.
Photo of Sunny Hills Assisted Living and Memory Care
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of Beverly Hills Loving Care
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
See details

Costs of independent living in the Los Angeles area

The average cost that seniors paid for A Place for Mom’s partner Los Angeles independent living facilities between 2022 and 2023 was $5,545 per month, according to our proprietary data. This cost includes room and board in addition to any extra fees and add-ons, like pet rent and upgraded amenities.

Independent living cost breakdown

Independent living costs vary depending on location, floor plan, and included luxuries. The features below may be included in your baseline independent living monthly costs:

  • Rent
  • Some or all utilities
  • Meals, depending on the community
  • Activity calendar
  • Common areas like swimming pools, beauty salons, and dog parks
  • Maintenance and landscaping
  • Concierge services

Though communities vary on what they include in their baseline, typical add-on fees might include the following:

  • Pet rent
  • Housekeeping
  • Transportation
  • Upgraded in-unit amenities like stainless steel appliances
  • Beautician services

The numbers below can help you compare baseline costs for Los Angeles area independent living communities. Baseline costs do not include care costs or add-on fees, like our proprietary figure above.

Average cost comparisons near Los Angeles, CA

Average monthly costs

Los Angeles, CA

$4,587

How people pay for independent living in Los Angeles

Most people combine their income sources to cover their independent living costs, e.g., personal income sources with options such as veterans benefits. Because independent living communities don’t provide care services, this type of senior living isn’t covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, or long-term care insurance. However, health care insurance may help you pay for your medically necessary home health care services if you ever grow to need such.

Browse the sections below to learn about your options, including private pay, veterans benefits, Medi-Cal, and Medicare.

Private pay methods in Los Angeles

Your personal sources of income may include savings accounts, investment returns, pensions, Social Security benefits, and any of the sources explained below. Some of these options can be combined to cover your independent living costs.

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VA benefits for independent living in Los Angeles

Veterans in Los Angeles age 65 and older have several programs and benefits available to them. California’s veteran services program, called CalVet, helps qualifying senior veterans and their surviving spouses enroll in a Veterans Benefit Enhancement Program (VBE). This program helps seniors transition from Medi-Cal to VA health care. Transitioning to VA health care allows seniors with disabilities to access more VA assistance benefits.

Veterans benefits

Veterans benefits can provide funds to cover a senior veteran or their surviving spouse’s costs of living, like rent at an independent living community.

The VA Aid and Attendance benefit, for example, provides eligible senior veterans or their surviving spouses monthly payments that can pay for independent living. Among other factors, the Aid and Attendance benefit requires the senior to either already live in a nursing home or have a family caregiver in their home, such as their spouse.

Seek advice before applying

Keep in mind that applying for these benefits is a long and difficult process, so seniors should seek out these local veteran advocates to help them along in the application process:

  • Contact the Los Angeles VA Regional Benefit Office for assistance with your benefit applications.
  • Reach out to the Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles — Veterans Justice Center for full-scope, free legal advocacy in attaining VA benefits.
  • Join the Los Angeles chapter of Disabled American Veterans (or DAV) and Veterans of Foreign Wars (or VFW) for VA benefit advocacy.
  • The Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles and the Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing Program can provide assistance with veteran housing resources.
68822

Approximate number of veterans who live in Los Angeles

Approximate percentage of Los Angeles veterans who are over the age of 65

Resources for Los Angeles veterans

City VA service offices

Los Angeles County Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA)
1816 S. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Phone: 877-452-8387
Hours: Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Los Angeles County Veterans Service Officers
1816 S. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Phone: 213-744-4825
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Veterans Affairs (VA) Los Angeles Regional Office
1100 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Local support and benefit advocacy for veterans

Veterans of Foreign Wars (or VFW) — 8310 U.S.S. Gudgeon Post
1006 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91506
Phone: 818-842-1739
Meets every first Thursday of the month at 7 p.m.

Disabled American Veterans (or DAV) — Los Angeles Chapter 5
11310 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
Phone: 661-466-7811
Meets every third Thursday of the month at 12 p.m.

Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles — Veterans Justice Center
1550 W. Eighth St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: 800-399-4529
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Los Angeles Medi-Cal and Medicare for independent living

Here, you’ll find detailed information on Medi-Cal, Medicare, and how these payment options may help with independent living costs. Continue reading to learn if these benefit options apply to your senior living situation.

Medi-Cal

California’s Medicaid program is called Medi-Cal. It serves people of low-income status by paying for health care services, such as medical appointments, rehabilitation, and hospital stays. Medi-Cal doesn’t cover rent in independent living communities. However, if a senior with Medi-Cal requires medically necessary in-home care services, they can apply for California’s In-Home Support Services program. This program may cover some of the costs of care in the senior’s own home if they meet certain requirements.

You can apply for Medi-Cal through the county or through Covered California. Covered California is the health care portal specifically for California residents that provides Medi-Cal as well as low-cost, full coverage health care plans. The Covered California application and the Medi-Cal application are the same, so when you apply through their web portal, you will learn if you qualify for Medi-Cal. This easy-to-use web portal helps low-income residents gain access to full essential health care benefits on top of their qualifying Medi-Cal benefits.

L.A. Care Medi-Cal and the Medi-Cal Rx Customer Service Center are additional resources for the Medi-Cal application assistance. You can also access the county’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman and the Los Angeles Aging and Disability Resource Connection for further assistance with Medi-Cal benefits. Or, learn more about senior health programs through the California Department of Public Health and the state’s My Medi-Cal guide.

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for seniors at least 65 years old. This program can be used to pay for your medical expenses, but it doesn’t pay for your room and board in an independent senior living community. Read about each part of Medicare below to learn what’s covered:

  • 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.[03]

If your senior loved one is enrolled in Medicare, consider checking if they’re eligible for any Medicare Savings Programs, as these may cover part of the senior’s Medicare premium. California has four different Medicare Savings Programs that cover either individual Medicare parts or a combination of several.

Seniors enrolled in Medicare that meet low-income requirements can apply for Medicare Savings Programs online. It’s a good idea to look for assistance with the application process to ensure you are applying for and receiving all your eligible benefits. The city’s Social Security Administration office is a good place to start when seeking assistance with Medicare. A Long-Term Care Ombudsman can also help you with Medicare benefits, in addition to the local Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP). Or, dial 2-1-1 for a guide to local senior services.

Los Angeles resident Medi-Cal and Medicare resources

Medi-Cal application assistance

L.A. Care — Apply for Medi-Cal and get assistance with your application
Phone: 888-663-8289
Hours: 24/7, including holidays

Los Angeles County Long-Term Care Ombudsman
1527 Fourth St., 2nd Floor
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: 800-334-9473

Los Angeles Aging & Disability Resource Connection221 N. Figueroa St., Suite 500
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: 213-482-7252
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Fridays 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Apply for Medi-Cal

Apply through Covered California.
2631 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90006
Phone: 800-650-0922
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Apply through Los Angeles County.
Phone: 310-258-7400

Medicare application assistance

Los Angeles Social Security Administration Office
661 W. Sixth St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: 213-251-7005
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Los Angeles County Long-Term Care Ombudsman
1527 Fourth St., 2nd Floor
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: 800-334-9473

Medicare Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP)
520 S. La Fayette Park Place, Suite 214
Los Angeles, CA 90057
Phone: 213-383-0780
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Understand California laws and regulations for independent living communities

Independent living communities are essentially senior apartments with more amenities and services, so they don’t need to be licensed as a senior care community. The exception is if an independent living community shares a campus with other senior care facilities, such as assisted living and memory care.

In California, if your independent living community shares the same campus with a senior care facility, it must have a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) license through the California Department of Social Services, also known as the CDSS. With this license, the senior care facility must comply with the following regulations:

  • It must house a maximum of two residents per bedroom.
  • It must provide individual privacy in each bathroom.
  • It must ensure bedrooms have enough room to accommodate equipment such as wheelchairs and walkers.
  • It must provide clean and accessible common rooms for residents.
  • It must provide activities involving social, leisure, and daily living skills.[04]

If you would like to learn more about assisted living regulations and the Residential Care Facility license in California, visit the Regulations section of our Los Angeles assisted living page.

Independent living residents and their rights

The owners of independent living communities must provide their renters with safe and well-maintained housing, just as they would for seniors renting a house or apartment. The following are some examples of the regulations you can expect at a stand-alone independent living community rental in California:

  • Senior independent living communities typically have a minimum age requirement of 62 years.[05]
  • Tenants have a right to basic services, such as maintenance, landscaping, and fully functioning utilities, when they rent a unit in these communities.
  • It’s illegal for a landlord to refuse to rent to someone due to a disability.
  • Seniors with disabilities have protections under the law when renting.[06]

Accommodations and modifications for seniors with disabilities

According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), landlords must consent to reasonable accommodations and modifications for persons with disabilities. Landlords must pay for accommodations and certain structural modifications of common areas, while the renter should pay for certain structural modifications to their individual unit.[08]

Accommodations involve changes to community procedures that might restrict disabled individuals from access if not changed. Some examples of accommodations include the following:

  • Offering designated parking spaces close to the building
  • Allowing residents to have a service animal even if a no-pet policy is in place
  • Changing the due date of rent to accommodate a tenant’s disability payments

Modifications involve changes to the structure of the building, common areas, or individual units. Here are some examples of such modifications:

  • Installing easy-to-reach appliances
  • Installing grab bars in bathrooms
  • Putting a ramp at the building’s entrance

The following are some other protections granted to renters under the Americans with Disabilities Act (or ADA):

  • Independent living communities must make modifications and accommodations to enable seniors with disabilities to participate in all activities and programs.
  • Buildings must be accessible with elements such as curb ramps, restrooms that accommodate wheelchairs, and doors that accommodate wheelchairs.
  • If a community has an elevator, it must be designed or modified to fit a wheelchair and placed in a spot that’s commonly accessed by residents.[06]

Inspection reports

The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) inspects Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RFCE) annually and within 10 days of receiving a complaint.[06] While the inspections won’t apply to the independent living area of the RCFE, they will apply to the areas that are licensed as assisted living communities.

Assisted living communities that are licensed as a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly have public inspection reports in the CDSS Care Facility Search. To use this search, scroll down to “Search By Facility Group,” select “Elderly Assisted Living,” select the “Facility Type” and “Los Angeles County,” and 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 Los Angeles independent living communities

Los Angeles asks residents to stay up to date with vaccines, to get tested if symptoms are suspected, and to wear a mask in public. Read Los Angeles County Public Health’s current COVID-19 guidelines for frequently updated information.

Stand-alone independent living communities may have their own COVID-19 guidelines in place, so contact your prospective community directly if you want to learn more. If you’d like to learn about the guidelines for the assisted living wings in a shared independent living community you’re considering, check out the Regulations section of the Los Angeles assisted living page.

Get to know independent living in Los Angeles

378Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.7/5.0 average in-network rating
71% of communities have wheelchair-accessible showers
100% of communities offer complimentary or at-cost dining services
51% of communities have fitness centers
74% of communities have beauty salons
6013
Number of people we referred to our in-network Los Angeles independent living facilities in 2022
80
Average age of residents we referred to our in-network Los Angeles independent living facilities in 2022
Percentage of communities that are pet-friendly

Types of independent living in Los Angeles

You have many wonderful options for your Los Angeles retirement. A Place for Mom’s network of Los Angeles independent living partners range from stand-alone communities to those with a full scope of personal care services. With A Place for Mom, you’ll easily find local communities with unique offerings — like boutique hotel living with plenty of tailored, resort-style amenities, services, and dining options. For example, some communities are completely Kosher-certified.

Stand-alone independent living complexes

Los Angeles stand-alone independent living communities are similar to senior apartments regarding the layout, the freedom to come and go as you please, and the senior-specific amenities. These exclusive senior living communities typically don’t provide personal care services directly, though they may offer on-site access to third-party home care agencies. Among our partner independent living communities in Los Angeles, three of them are stand-alone — for truly independent seniors without current need for personal home care services.

Independent living with senior care options

Choosing a community with tiered care options means you’ll have access to senior care services without having to move to a new community when your needs change. You may only need to move to a different wing on the same campus to receive care services. In A Place for Mom’s Los Angeles network, there are 28 independent living communities that also offer assisted living and memory care services on the same campus.

Communities with character

After budgeting for retirement in this expensive city, you can be as specific as you want when choosing your ideal independent living community. Regarding the physical layout, our in-network offerings look similar to senior apartment communities. You can choose ground- or upper-level apartment-style rooms that range from studio to one-bedroom floor plans.

Los Angeles is home to independent living facilities that rise above the senior living stereotype. You can find communities for all walks of life, interests, and even denominations. For instance, Los Angeles has several Jewish independent living communities, with Kosher-certified kitchens, cuisine, and religious services.

There are also communities located in historic districts and some that offer boutique hotel-like senior living. Or, you can opt for a laid-back apartment style setting. You can choose from communities in desirable, upscale neighborhoods, like Beverly Hills and the heart of Los Angeles, for a more prestigious, resort-style experience. And for budget-friendly options, you can choose from communities in more affordable neighborhoods, like Santa Monica and Glendale. Wherever you choose to settle, never-ending beaches, vistas, and breathtaking West Coast sunsets are never far away.

Resort-style amenities

Seniors can enjoy an abundance of senior-specific amenities in Los Angeles independent living communities. These communities lend themselves to building new relationships, staying active, and enjoying a maintenance-free retirement among peers. Pet friends are also invited to join your retirement, as 90% of A Place for Mom’s in-network Los Angeles independent living communities are pet-friendly.

Full-service beauty salons, barber shops, pools, gyms, and spas are among the most common features in Los Angeles independent living communities. Relax after taking a dip in heated outdoor swimming pools, or break a sweat in the professionally supervised fitness center. Some communities even offer manicures, private massages, and facials as part of their spa and salon experiences. Beloved pups are also welcome to enjoy a pampered lifestyle with features like dog wash stations.

Your future independent living community grounds have much to offer. Enjoy a gourmet meal on a covered restaurant-style patio, get cozy by the outdoor fireplace, or stroll along paved walking paths through the landscaped courtyards. When it’s time to explore off campus, access the community’s own transportation options, which might even include a personal limousine service. This is Los Angeles after all.

Explore senior care with confidence

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Find top facilities for you.

Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.

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Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.

Unfamiliar with Los Angeles? Highlights for seniors

527075

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Los Angeles

13%

Percentage of seniors 65 and older currently living in Los Angeles

85

Average high temperature (Fahrenheit) in August, the warmest month in Los Angeles

Health care for seniors in Los Angeles

Seniors in Los Angeles are near a number of nationally ranked hospitals and medical centers. Several of these centers also have specific programs for seniors or are nationally ranked in geriatric care.

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Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is a teaching hospital that provides general medical and surgical care. They’re rated as the No. 1 hospital in Los Angeles, and they’re nationally ranked for cardiology, orthopedics, and pulmonology. They also have a geriatrics program that provides individual care plans and free classes for seniors.

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Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center

Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center is the No. 2 hospital in Los Angeles. It’s a teaching hospital that provides general medical and surgical care. They’re nationally ranked for cancer care, diabetes care, and geriatrics.

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Keck Medical Center of USC

Keck Medical Center of USC is the No. 3 hospital in Los Angeles. It’s a teaching hospital with both a medical surgical intensive care unit and a cardiac intensive care unit. They’re nationally ranked for cancer surgeries, cardiology, and geriatrics.

Transportation for seniors in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, 90% of A Place for Mom’s partner independent living facilities offer either at-cost or complimentary transportation services. These transportation services provide a secure and convenient way for you to run errands and get around the city without having to drive. Driving in Los Angeles is notoriously stressful due to the heavy traffic at all hours, so these services are especially valued.

And on days when driving isn’t necessary, you can easily access bike-friendly routes and walkable areas in Los Angeles from our partner communities. You can also access Los Angeles’ popular public transportation hubs, some with senior-specific services. Both Union Station Los Angeles and the Los Angeles Metro are popular public transportation hubs, and many of their options have senior discounts. Browse the following transportation options offered at each of these locations:

  • There are over 165 Metro bus routes available.
  • Los Angeles has seven rail lines, each with a connection to one of the bus stops.
  • Metro bikes are available to rent in intervals ranging from one ride to one year.
  • The Metro micro is Los Angeles’ on-demand rideshare option, serving many of the city’s subdivisions as well.
  • Union Station West has a designated taxi pick-up and drop-off location.
  • The Dodger Stadium Express is a bus available at Union Station for passengers attending home games.

Los Angeles also has senior-specific transportation options:

  • Seniors with disabilities may be eligible for Access, the Metro’s rideshare paratransit service.
  • CityRide is designed for seniors over the age of 65 and people with disabilities. It offers discounted rates and curbside service.
  • Transport Seniors LA provides wheelchair-accessible transportation for seniors who need to travel to and from medical appointments, errands, and more.

The figures below represent the ease of Los Angeles’ transportation methods, according to WalkScore. Scores range from zero to 100, with higher numbers indicating a more accessible method of transportation.

Transportation card image
69

Walk Score

Transportation card image
53

Transit Score

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59

Bike Score

Senior activities in Los Angeles

Make each day of your Los Angeles retirement full of purpose. This city has something for all retirees. Be inspired every day with an abundance of world-class art and history museums, as well as a full scope of outdoor activities, entertainment, and sporting events. Find your new favorite relaxing beach, go on an exciting coastline adventure, or enjoy a laid-back lifestyle among senior centers and the locals’ favorite restaurants. Dining is as world-class as it is culturally dynamic in Los Angeles.

No matter your interests, you can find your niche in the global capital that is Los Angeles. Read on for more details and highlights of the area.

Art and history museums

Los Angeles has many wheelchair-accessible museums that also offer accessibility guides. Art displays, interactive science exhibits, and significantly historic artifacts can be found right in town.

  • The Getty is a world-renowned art museum with two campuses. The Getty Center houses European art, while The Getty Villa Museum hosts ancient Roman and Greek art.
  • The LA County Museum of Art (or LACMA) is another local gem with unique art exhibits and events.
  • Seniors also enjoy The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, which features galleries on the history of cinema. The museum also hosts after-hours movie screenings in their very own theaters.
  • Hands-on experiences for seniors and their visitors alike can be found in the California Science Center, and admission is free.
  • The Griffith Observatory is another free admission option, offering family-friendly stargazing opportunities you’ll treasure.

Outdoor activities

If you’re looking to fulfill an active lifestyle, Los Angeles has many hiking trails, parks, and stunning scenery to choose from:

Sports

The Los Angeles Lakers, Dodgers, and Rams are the city’s most popular sports teams. Spend a day at a baseball game in Dodger Stadium, watch the Lakers play in the Crypto.com Arena, or cheer on the Rams in SoFi Stadium.

Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the well-known PGA Tour is hosted locally. Just a 25 minute drive from downtown in LA’s coastal Pacific Palisades neighborhood, you can catch the Southern California stop of this popular world tour.

Laid-back city enjoyment

Live like an Angeleno and explore these relaxing, day-to-day options:

  • Seniors can find almost any cuisine in Los Angeles’ popular restaurants, from five-star dining to famed street food. World cuisine is easily found as well, like Ethiopian, Italian, Japanese, Jewish, and Palestinian.
  • The Los Angeles Public Library has dozens of branches throughout the county, and you can visit several museums for free when you sign up for a library card.
  • The Huntington has a research library and calming botanical gardens.
  • Seniors in Los Angeles also have 29 senior centers to choose from in varying Los Angeles neighborhoods. Each center offers a range of senior-specific activities, from exercise and fitness classes to performing arts events and interest groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pacifica Senior Living Northridge, Studio Royale and Sunrise of Beverly Hills are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Los Angeles, CA. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Independent Living in Los Angeles is 4587.16 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. 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.

  3. U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What’s Medicare? Medicare.gov.

  4. 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.

  5. Intergenerational Housing for Senior Citizens, California Civil Code § 51.3.5 (1988 & rev. 2017).

  6. California Department of Justice. (2003, November). Legal rights of persons with disabilities, 4th edition.

  7. Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. (2022, November 10). Guidance for community care facilities.

  8. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  9. Weather Spark. (2022). Average weather in Los Angeles.

  10. U.S. World and News Report. (2022). Best hospitals in Los Angeles, California.

  11. Walkscore. (2022). Living in Los Angeles.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

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.

3.

U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What’s Medicare? Medicare.gov.

4.
5.

Intergenerational Housing for Senior Citizens, California Civil Code § 51.3.5 (1988 & rev. 2017).

6.

California Department of Justice. (2003, November). Legal rights of persons with disabilities, 4th edition.

7.

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. (2022, November 10). Guidance for community care facilities.

8.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.

9.

Weather Spark. (2022). Average weather in Los Angeles.

10.

U.S. World and News Report. (2022). Best hospitals in Los Angeles, California.

11.

Walkscore. (2022). Living in Los Angeles.