Assisted living communities in California are licensed Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs) and are regulated by the Department of Social Services. Inspections by state officials, staff training and certification requirements, family and community involvement and ongoing quality assurance efforts work together to help ensure quality care. Ongoing education and training programs provided by CALA and other education organizations, strive to reinforce standards and promote state-of-the-art programs and care delivery models.

Responsiveness to consumer demand has resulted in a variety of options now available to consumers – options relating to services, special programs, activities, community size and amenities. Because consumers’ preferences and needs vary widely, there is no single blueprint. Assisted living communities can range from a converted Victorian home, to a high-rise complex, to a multi-acre campus. Assisted living is an attractive option for consumers primarily because of the range of choices available, individualized service approach, security and home-like environment.

Demographic Trends. California is home to nearly 4 million people age 65 and over. By 2040, this population is expected to reach 12.5 million, an increase of 232 percent from 1990. The fastest growing population group in California is age 85 and over. Today, approximately 1 in 77 Californians are more than 85 years old. By 2040, that number is expected to grow to 1 in 34.