Frequently Asked Questions

Topanga Gardens – Assisted & Independent Senior Living in the West San Fernando Valley

We understand that choosing a senior living community is a big decision. Below are answers to the most common questions we receive about both Assisted Living (Board and Care) and Independent Living at Topanga Gardens.

 

Assisted Living (Board and Care) FAQs

 

What is Board and Care?

Board and care homes are small, residential senior living facilities licensed by the State of California. They provide 24/7 non-medical care, meals, personal support, and supervision in a home-like setting.

 

What levels of care do you offer?

We offer three levels of care based on resident needs:

• Level 1 (Basic Care): Light ADL support, medication reminders

• Level 2 (Moderate Care): Hands-on ADL help, incontinence care, medication management

• Level 3 (Advanced Care): Dementia/Alzheimer’s care, mobility assistance, oxygen & equipment support

 

Are you licensed?

Yes, we are licensed by the California Department of Social Services as a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE). License #197610272.

 

What is included in the monthly rate?

• 24/7 caregiver support

• Assistance with bathing, grooming, dressing, and mobility

• Medication management

• Home-cooked meals and snacks

• Housekeeping and laundry

• Social activities

• Private or shared room

 

Do you offer hospice care?

Yes, we provide hospice care in partnership with licensed providers to ensure comfort, dignity, and peace of mind in end-of-life stages.

 

Do you offer respite care (short-term stays)?

Yes. We welcome short-term residents for caregiver relief, recovery after hospital stays, or to "try out" the community before moving in permanently.

 

What payment options are available?

• Private Pay

• Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI)

• Assisted Living Waiver (ALW) – Coming soon

• Home Rental Assistance – We can help you rent out your home to cover monthly care costs

 

Independent Living FAQs

 

What’s included in the Independent Living monthly rate?

• Private or shared room

• Three daily meals plus snacks

• Housekeeping and laundry

• All utilities, Wi-Fi, and cable TV

• Daily social activities

• On-site staff for safety (non-medical)

• Outdoor garden access

• iPads for FaceTiming with family

 

Do you provide medical or personal care?

No. Our Independent Living program is non-medical. Residents must be able to care for themselves independently. If care is needed later, we can help with a smooth transition to our Assisted Living program.

 

Can I bring my own furniture?

Yes. Residents are encouraged to bring personal furniture and decor to make the space feel like home. Fully furnished rooms are also available.

 

Can I have visitors?

Yes! We have an open-door visitation policy during standard hours, and residents can also use iPads to connect virtually with loved ones.

 

Are pets allowed?

At this time, pets are not permitted in our Independent Living program.

 

Do you accept short-term residents or seasonal stays?

Yes. Seniors are welcome to stay with us on a short-term or trial basis, depending on room availability.

 

What payment options are available for Independent Living?

• Private Pay
  For families paying directly for services.

• Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI)
  We work with most long term care insurance providers.

• Assisted Living Waiver (ALW)
  Coming Soon – a state-funded program that covers care for eligible Medi-Cal beneficiaries.

• Home Rental Assistance
  If you or your loved one owns a home, we can help you rent it out and use the income to cover the cost of care. It’s a smart way to keep your property while making senior living more affordable.