FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

At The Sequoias, we know that choosing a Life Plan Community is a big decision, one that comes with many questions. From pets and guests to fees, insurance, and what life is really like here, we’ve gathered answers to the questions we hear most often. Our goal is to make your journey into community living clear and reassuring, so you can focus on what matters most: enjoying the next chapter of life with confidence, comfort, and connection.

Take a look below at our list of Frequently Asked Questions addressing a range of topics. Still haven’t found your answer? Visit the Contact Us page or give us a call!

The Sequoias is owned and operated by Sequoia Living, a nonprofit organization founded in 1958. Sequoia Living oversees seven communities and several community service programs throughout Northern California. A non-compensated Board of Directors and trustees, comprised of professionals from the region, guides Sequoia Living in achieving its vision and mission of serving older adults.

The minimum age to live at The Sequoias is 60 years old. However, many residents tell us they wish they had moved in sooner because of the increased quality of life they experience in our community.

We love furry friends! In general, dogs and cats are allowed within weight limits. Other small pets that do not pose a danger to residents and staff may be accepted. Please ask for details on our pet policy.

At The Tamalpais, your residence is your home. You are welcome to entertain guests, including having overnight visitors for up to 14 days without approval. We also have several guest rooms (available for a nominal fee) and rollaway beds for your visiting friends and relatives.

THE APPLICATION PROCESS

Please schedule a tour of The Sequoias by calling (415) 922-9700. Once you select your apartment, you may reserve it with a 10% fully-refundable deposit. You will be asked to sign a reservation agreement which will take the apartment off the market while you complete the application process.

After you complete the reservation agreement, you have 10 days to turn in your full application packet, which includes a health questionnaire, lab tests, and financial statements. Our medical director will evaluate your medical records and schedule you for an exam. After you successfully complete the medical and financial portions of the application, the approval committee will decide which contract option you qualify for. Once you receive your acceptance letter, we can schedule your contract signing. In most cases, the process takes between 30 and 60 days.

If you terminate the contract or pass away during the first 44 months, Sequoia Living will repay to you (or your estate) eighty-two percent (82%) of the entrance fee less an amount equal to 2% for each month of residency for voluntary termination. The Sequoias has several contract options available with a 50% repayment option. Please see the Contract Options page for details.

There are two types of cancellations: (1) 90-day cancellation period and (2) contract termination before 44 months of residency. During the first 90 days, you are eligible for a full refund of your entrance fee, minus any deductions of reasonable fees to cover costs of cancellation as well as the reasonable value of the accommodations, care, and services rendered.

FEES AND INSURANCE

At The Sequoias, the total cost of long-term care is covered, whereas many long-term care insurance plans have daily expense limits and elimination periods. Typically, these plans offer limits of $100 per day to $300 per day. At current rates for care, that amount may be insufficient to cover actual costs. An elimination requires you to wait a specified number of days, often 30 to 90 days before your policy reimburses you for your care. During this waiting period, you may have to pay 100% of the costs of care. These amounts might be substantial.

If you have a Lifetime Services contract, should you or your spouse need a higher level of care, your monthly fee remains predictable. Residents with the Continuing Care or Preferred contract will pay the market rate at the time of care.

Medicare or equivalent coverage and supplemental health insurance are a requirement for acceptance at The Sequoias. You are responsible for Medicare co-payments, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.

Yes, you can retain your current physicians. You will be responsible for physician service co-payments and deductibles not covered by Medicare. The Lifetime Services contract will cover 24-hour emergency call systems, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing care at The Sequoias.

The entrance fee is a one-time payment to secure the apartment of your choice. Your MCF will continue each month whether you live independently or in a higher level of care, i.e., assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing.

The MCF covers amenities and services offered by The Sequoias, such as meals, housekeeping, linen service, utilities, transportation, on-site clinic, private dining and meeting rooms, fitness and wellness activities, and much more.

WE ARE HERE FOR YOU

Our staff receives joy by delighting our residents, their families, and all our guests. It’s one of the many reasons we love coming to work each day in the field of senior living in San Francisco. Please contact us anytime. We’re happy to answer your questions about senior living in San Francisco and give you and your loved ones a tour of our beautiful community.