Santa Clara is a city within Santa Clara County, California. The population is approximately 116,000 making it the 9th most populous city within the San Francisco Bay Area, located in the heart of Silicon Valley. It is the headquarter of several high-tech companies, such as Intel. The city boasts fair weather and plenty to do, making it a place where many choose to retire. With a growing population of seniors, currently 10.6% of the city’s population being over the age of 65, it will likely continue to be a place where seniors settle down and call home.
Most senior Californians live alone. As their need for assistance grows, they have three main living choices. Nursing facilities are for those who need the most assistance, usually 24-hour medical care and help with most activities of daily living. Those looking to transition from living alone, mostly choose between assisted living facilities and independent living facilities.
Independent living facilities are also known as retirement communities and are usually designated for people age 55 and older. These may consist of apartments or housing units that can be bought or rented and can provide everything from recreational activities to transportation and food services. Since they don’t provide medical care or assistance with activities of daily living, residents need to be able to care for themselves.
Assisted living facilities offer a level of care higher than independent living facilities, but a step below nursing facilities. So, for those who need help with daily activities or assistance with medication reminders, this is the most suitable option. The median cost for assisted living facilities in the Santa Clara area is $5,853 per month.
