Situated just 12 miles southeast of Los Angeles, Downey offers retirees a classic Southern California lifestyle. Summers are warm and pleasant with highs in the mid-80s, and winters are mild. Residents of Downey enjoy more sunny days and less rain than the average U.S. city, as well as virtually no snow. Seniors who enjoy outdoor pursuits are a short 10-mile drive from the Pacific and have access to 11 area parks and two municipal golf courses. History buffs can visit the Downey History Center or the Columbia Memorial Space Center.
Seniors aged 65 and over make up 12% of Downey’s population of slightly more than 111,000 people and have a choice of 20 assisted living facilities in and near the city. The average cost of assisted living in Downey is $5,000 per month, although rates may vary depending on a facility’s location within the community and the amenities and services offered.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
At an average of $5,000 per month, assisted living in Downey costs several hundred dollars more than the national median of $4,300 but is right on par with California’s monthly average. Costs are lower in adjacent states. Seniors pay $3,900 in Arizona, $3,595 in Nevada and $4,659 in Oregon. Further north in Washington, the average cost is significantly higher at $5,750 per month.
Monthly assisted living costs in California range from $3,500 in Stockton to $7,100 in Salinas, which puts Downey’s $5,000 average about midrange. San Francisco residents pay an average of $6,100 per month, while their counterparts in San Diego and Sacramento pay $4,525 and $5,395, respectively. Further inland from Downey, costs average $3,900 in Riverside but rise to $4,750 in Fresno.
Downey residents who are aged 65 or older and meet Medi-Cal’s financial guidelines may be able to receive help paying some of the costs of assisted living through the California Assisted Living Waiver. Applicants also must require a nursing home level of care to qualify.
Please see our Assisted Living in California page for more information about the ALW program’s eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Contact | Description | |
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program | (310) 394-9871 | The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is designed to provide those living in assisted living facilities with advocacy and support to help ensure their legal rights are not being violated. Ombudsman representatives also investigate complaints about issues such as poor quality of care, inappropriate use of restraints and dietary concerns. All services are free of charge and confidential. |
Barbara J. Riley Community & Senior Center | (562) 904-7223 | Downey residents aged 50 and over can access a variety of social, recreational and enrichment programs at the Barbara J. Riley Community & Senior Center. The center hosts congregate meals, health and wellness workshops, senior clubs and a range of leisure activities. On-site amenities include a computer lab, billiards room, fitness center and cafe. |
Downey Veterans Council | (562) 904-7284 | The Downey Veterans Council was formed to promote awareness of local veterans issues, share information about relevant resources and services and provide members with opportunities to network with other veterans. The council meets on a regular basis, and all meetings are open to area veterans and residents. |
Downey Dial-a-Ride | (562) 904-7215 | Those aged 65 and over or who have physician-certified disabilities prohibiting the use of public transit services can access curb-to-curb transportation through Downey Dial-a-Ride. Seniors must complete an application and provide proof of residency. Rides cost 50 cents each way, and riders are asked to provide exact change. The service operates seven days a week, and rides should be scheduled at least 24 hours in advance. |
Los Angeles County Older & Dependent Adult Services | (800) 510-2020 | Adults aged 60 and over residing in Los Angeles County communities including Downey can access supportive services through the County’s Older & Dependent Adult Services department. Services include legal assistance, case management and health insurance counseling through the HICAP program. Priority is given to low-income individuals. |
Long-term care facilities operating in the state of California must comply with all rules and regulations regarding their operations. These facilities are licensed and monitored by California’s Senior Care Licensing Program. Visit our Assisted Living in California page to learn more about these laws and regulations.