Memory Care of Contra Costa

My father had been declining in health for years, eventually diagnosed with PSP (progressive supranuclear palsy) and his care needs kept escalating; over the last 2 years we moved him 3+ times (from his home to independent living, to assisted care, to a SNF, and lastly to memory care of contra costa: MCCC under hospice orders). MCCC was a godsend for us. A smaller facility dedicated to memory care meant that every caregiver and staff member was trained and knew how to provide for seniors with higher needs. My father in particular needed specific diet instructions, non-verbal communication, and direct assistance with all daily tasks. We didn't have to deal with a wait-list (maybe we were lucky, there was a unit readily available), the pricing is very straightforward, and all the staff quickly became some of his favorite people. They also coordinated seamlessly with Suncrest hospice of walnut creek, which made regular updates and communication very easy. My father moved into MCCC in January and passed away in April. And I truly believe the high quality and genuine care he received there was part of how we were able to send him off in the best possible way: surrounded by family, listening to the music he loved, hearing the words "i love you," and feeling a warm embrace as he took his last breaths. Senior care is a complex and increasingly expensive proposition in the US, MCCC made the price feel well worth it and we never questioned whether we made the right decision moving him here. There really are some of the most empathetic, altruistic, and caring people working there - I hope they know that and can be reminded that the direct care they provide honors the dignity of their residents and brings immense peace of mind to the families and friends who love them.

I cannot say enough about Tommy, the Retirement Counselor. From the moment you meet him, you can tell he genuinely cares—not just about the residents, but about their families too. He has this calm, steady presence that really stands out, especially in moments that could otherwise feel overwhelming. Tommy is incredibly friendly, patient, and attentive. He handles situations with such ease and compassion, even when things get chaotic, and that kind of energy makes a huge difference in a memory care setting. It brings a sense of comfort and trust that’s hard to put into words but so important. It’s clear he takes pride in what he does, and it shows in every interaction. Anyone who has the chance to work with or have a loved one cared for by Tommy is truly in good hands.

My Dad suffers from advanced dementia. His care was becoming too much for my mom. We found the Carlton, met Tom, took a tour. We liked what we saw. I saw happy, well cared for residents, a clean facility and most importantly a staff who cares and seems happy working there. We decided this was the place for dad. My brother arranged to get a care assessment by Tommy. Stopping for coffee before, my dad suffered a very bad fall in a parking lot. He was rushed to the hospital, spent 8 days in ICU. While he was in the hospital, Tommy came to the hospital to complete the care assessment so he could be moved directly to the facility, wow! My dad has now been a resident since October 2022, loves his caregivers and actually doesn’t get as anxious due to their regular, engaging schedules and activities. We are very pleased and have the peace of mind about his happy, safe quality of life.