We’re the company with heart
Frequently Asked Questions (F.A.Q's)
Choosing care for yourself or a loved one is an important decision. Below are answers to the questions we hear most often from families in Orange County and beyond.
Working With Us
Why should I work with Next Step Senior Care Inc.?
Our team is made up of professionals and family caregivers who deeply respect the wishes and needs of every client. Each service is personalized to fit your situation. We aim to guide you confidently through the senior care world with compassion and clarity.
What areas do you serve?
We work directly with families throughout Orange County, California. For families outside the area, we offer support via Zoom, Google Meet and WhatsApp.
Through the National Association of Placement Specialists, we can also connect you with trusted providers nationwide.
How do I contact your team?
Book a consultation by clicking here:
Call or text (949) 573-8504 or email info@nextstepsco.com.
Costs and Pricing
How Do Your Services work?
- FREE Placement Referral Services- We get paid by the communities
- In Home Care Options – The caregivers that we refer are generally better qualified and have lower fees than employee caregivers hired through nurses registries
- Care Coordination and Consulting Services
- long term care insurance claim coordination
- family consultations – family meetings
- care plan development – safe at home emergency plans
- referrals and caregiver oversight
- We get paid by the family/individual. Many Long Term Care Insurance companies reimburse for caregiver support.
- F.I.T. Sessions- Pricing varies by session length and program. We do not accept medical insurance for our training programs, we are strictly private pay.
How are your placement services free if you are a for-profit business?
We generally receive a referral fee from the senior living community you choose. Some communities do not pay referral fees—if one of these is the best fit for your family, we may still recommend them and waive our fee.
How much does it cost to live in a senior community?
Costs vary by care level and location. On average, senior living in Orange County ranges from $4,000 to $12,000+ per month. We work exclusively with RCFEs (Retirement Communities for the Elderly), which are licensed and overseen by the California Department of Social Services (CDSS).
Insurance and Funding
Does Medicare or Medi-Cal (Medicaid) cover senior living?
No. Government-funded insurance only covers medical care in skilled nursing facilities, not assisted living or board and care homes.
Does Long Term Care Insurance cover the costs for assisted living or board and care communities?
Most long-term care insurance policies are designed to help cover these costs. However, policies vary widely. We can assist you in reviewing and administering caregiver claim monthly paperwork as part of our care coordination support.
Does Medical Insurance cover the cost of Assisted Living or In-home caregivers?
Medical insurance coverage depends on the type of treatment and level of medical necessity. Medicare and Medi-Cal may cover short-term, medically necessary services, such as skilled nursing or rehabilitation. Coverage for long-term assisted living or non-medical in-home caregiving is typically limited.
Does long term care insurance pay for Assisted living or in home caregivers?
Long-term care insurance may help cover the cost of assisted living and in-home caregivers, depending on the policy. Coverage varies by plan and typically requires meeting specific care criteria, such as needing assistance with activities of daily living. Benefits, coverage limits, and waiting periods differ, so reviewing your individual policy is important.
Choosing the Right Care
How do I know what type of senior community is the best fit?
Start with a consultation. Our needs assessment helps us recommend the right community based on medical needs, lifestyle preferences, and long-term considerations. We guide you through the pros and cons so you can feel confident in your decision.
What types of senior living communities do you work with?
We help families explore independent living, assisted living, board & care homes, memory care, CCRCs (Continuing Care Retirement Communities), and skilled nursing facilities—depending on your loved one’s needs.
Stay Connected
Still have questions? We’re here to help.
Call us at (949) 573-8504 or email info@nextstepsco.com for personalized guidance.