Large community · Licensed for 328 · Portola Valley

The Sequoias-Portola Valley

501 Portola Road, Portola Valley, CA 94028Licensed since 1985

Overview

Starting rate

$5,588 a month

Listed by the home on its own website · October 27, 2026 See costs

No openings reported

Approved by the state: Wheelchair · HospiceState licensing record · October 25, 2026
Languages spoken: English and SpanishReported on Caring.com · September 9, 2026
Ways to pay: Private payThe home’s website · April 30, 2025

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Care and support

Wheelchair
Hospiceup to 15 residents

Not on file: dementia and bedridden approvals.

Approved by the state · State licensing record · October 25, 2026. An approval may cover specific rooms or residents; it does not establish an opening.

Read the state’s own wording

AGE 60 & OVER. 119 MAYBE NON-AMBULATORY. LICENSE SUBJECT TO THE TERMS & CONDITIONS OF THE HOSPICE WAIVER FOR 15 RESIDENTS.

938 - CONTINUE CARE CONTRACT (CCC)

CDSS record, verbatim · October 25, 2026

Care services

These are the home’s own statements about its day-to-day practice — they are not part of the state licensing record, and the state has not approved or reviewed them.

Works with hospice
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Help with bathing or showering
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Therapies availablePhysical therapy · Occupational therapy · Speech therapy · Physical · Occupational · Speech
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Diabetic / carbohydrate-controlled diet
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Renal diet
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Low-sodium or cardiac diet available
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.

As needs change

Medicines
Who handles medications: Licensed nurses administer doctor-prescribed pain medication.
sequoialiving.org · September 11, 2026
Staying through hospice
Residents may remain through end of life — reported yes
sequoialiving.org · September 11, 2026

We’ll ask for you. Not on file for The Sequoias-Portola Valley: two-person transfers or a lift, who is awake overnight and care if memory loss develops. When we check availability, we ask about these too.

Check availability

What it costs here

This home’s starting rate

$5,588a month to start

Listed by the home on its own website · October 27, 2026 · See the home’s page

Costs & moving in

How care costs are added to the rentTiered levels — “Residents with the Continuing Care or Preferred contract will pay the market rate at the time of care.”
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 30, 2026.
Private pay
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated April 30, 2025.
Assessment before move-in
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 30, 2026.
What costs extraMedicare co-payments (You are responsible for these costs) · Deductibles (You are responsible for these costs) · Other out-of-pocket healthcare expenses (You are responsible for these costs) · Physician service co-payments and deductibles not covered by Medicare (You are responsible for these costs)
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Refund policy for deposits, community fees, and prepaid rentThe Sequoias has several contract options available with a 50% repayment option.
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 30, 2026.
Admission documents available in other languagesHealth questionnaire · Lab tests · Financial statements
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.

Monthly cost breakdownWith a studio and basic help · room, care and fees$5,588likely a month

Room

Daily care

Sharing the room

Memory care is not priced here: a dementia-care designation is not on file for this home. Ask the home.

Starting monthly rate$5,588this home
The home lists this starting rate on its own website for studio, seen October 27, 2026.
Basic help with daily careUsually includedup to $600
Basic help is usually part of the starting rate. Homes that price care by level start around $600 a month (44 California homes publish a care-level range, seen in September 2026).
One-time move-in fee$2,500one time · likely $0–$4,000
Homes that list a one-time entry or community fee charge a median of $2,500 (133 California listings; middle half $1,000–$4,000). Many homes list none — ask.

Likely monthly totalLikely $5,588–$6,188: $5,588
First monthWith a one-time move-in fee · likely $5,588–$9,750: $8,088

How people payPrivate pay, Medi-Cal waiver, SSI/SSP, veterans, insurance

MedicareDoes not pay for room and board in a care home. It can still cover hospice or home-health visits inside one.
Private payMost residents pay from savings, a home sale or family help. Ask for the rate and what it includes in writing.
Medi-Cal Assisted Living WaiverThis home is not on the DHCS participation list dated October 1, 2026. Ask the program about current options. The waiver pays for care services, not room and board.
SSI/SSPCalifornia’s 2026 standard is $1,626.07 a month; $1,444.07 of it goes to the home and $182 stays with the resident. Whether this home accepts it is not on file — ask.
VeteransVA Aid & Attendance can add to a veteran’s or surviving spouse’s pension. Ask whether residents here have used it.
Long-term care insuranceMost policies pay for licensed care homes. Ask what paperwork the home provides for claims.

If the money runs out, what Medi-Cal covers

Rates at nearby homes15 nearby homes publish starting rates of $4,950 to $15,000

15 homes like this within 10 miles publish starting rates mostly between $5,200–$11,950.

Palo Alto CommonsPalo Alto · 6.0 mi · Large community
$7,050Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026
Bridgepoint at Los AltosLos Altos · 6.0 mi · Large community
$5,250Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026
Ivy Park at Palo AltoPalo Alto · 6.0 mi · Large community
$6,595Listed on its own website · private studio & companion suites available floor plans · seen October 27, 2026
Webster HousePalo Alto · 6.3 mi · Large community
$6,500Listed on Seniorly · independent living shared bedroom · seen September 9, 2026
Gordon ManorRedwood City · 6.4 mi · Large community
$8,500Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026
Oakmont of Redwood CityRedwood City · 6.6 mi · Large community
$6,495Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026
Kensington Place Redwood CityRedwood City · 6.7 mi · Large community
$15,000Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026
Marbella Redwood CityRedwood City · 6.7 mi · Large community
$4,950Listed on A Place for Mom · seen September 9, 2026
Moldaw Family Residences at 899 CharlestonPalo Alto · 7.3 mi · Large community
$11,800Listed on its own website · memory care starting price · seen October 5, 2026. We don’t have this home’s dementia-care disclosure. California requires a home that advertises dementia care to describe that care in writing when you ask.
Villa SienaMountain View · 7.4 mi · Large community
$10,800Listed on its own website · assisted living studio · seen October 5, 2026
Hopkins ManorRedwood City · 7.9 mi · Large community
$5,000Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026
Sunrise of SunnyvaleSunnyvale · 8.9 mi · Large community
$5,800Listed on its own website · studio · seen October 27, 2026
Sunny View Retirement CommunityCupertino · 9.2 mi · Large community
$12,285Listed on its own website · seen October 5, 2026
San Carlos ElmsSan Carlos · 9.2 mi · Large community
$6,274Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026
Sunnyside GardensSunnyvale · 9.6 mi · Large community
$5,200Listed on Seniorly · seen September 9, 2026

How this estimate worksWhere this price comes from

The home lists this starting rate on its own website for studio, seen October 27, 2026.

Only prices a home put out itself count: its own website, a listing it supplied, or a price Seniorly says the home confirmed. Prices a listing site shows without saying where they came from are left out.
Nearby homes are the nearest of the same size that publish a rate, widening from 3 to 40 miles until at least 8 do. The estimate starts from what they charge, then adjusts for this home’s size, state care approvals, Medi-Cal waiver participation, years licensed and the area’s prices.
Room, care-level, second-person and move-in lines come from what California homes publish on listing sites. Memory care uses Covelight’s researched premium over assisted living.
Totals add each line’s figure and combine the lines’ ranges as separate charges, because a home is rarely at the top, or the bottom, of every line at once.
We tested this estimate on 1,546 California homes that publish their own starting rate. It was within 10% of the real rate for 3 in 10 homes and within 25% for 7 in 10; the likely range held the real rate for 6 in 10 (September 12, 2026).
It cannot see this home’s specials, how it assesses care, or which rooms are open.

Avoid surprises on the billWhat changes the price, and what to ask

The care level
Some homes charge one all-inclusive rate. Others add levels or points as needs grow. Ask how the level is set, who decides, and what the next level costs.
What is billed separately
Medication management, incontinence supplies, transportation and a second person in the room are often extra. Ask for the list in writing.
Move-in costs
A one-time move-in fee or deposit is common. Ask what it covers and whether any of it comes back if the stay is short.
Increases
California requires at least 90 days’ written notice, with reasons, before a rate rises (Health & Safety Code §1569.655). A change in the resident’s care level is the section’s own exception and can be billed sooner.

Ask for the price

An estimate for planning, not a quote. A home sets the price after hearing about the care needed.

Daily life

Rooms, meals, activities and house rules, in the home’s own words. Open any detail to see where it came from.

Search the home’s details

Rooms & the spaces they will use (12)Room types · Building type · The room opens directly onto a patio, porch or garden

Room typesHospice suite with lounging area · Private hospice suites (for family and friends during a loved one's final chapter) · Hospice suites
Hospice suite with lounging area · Private hospice suites — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 11, 2026.
Hospice suites — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated April 30, 2025.
Building typeCampus
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
The room opens directly onto a patio, porch or garden
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated May 28, 2026.
Single story
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Kitchenette in the unit
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Outdoor spaceAccess to trails at Windy Hill Open Space Preserve · Peaceful gardens (suite views) · Connecting paths · Nearby trails · Foliage-lined pathways · Landscaped grounds · and 25 more
Access to trails at Windy Hill Open Space Preserve — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 11, 2026.
Peaceful gardens · Connecting paths · Nearby trails — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 11, 2026.
Foliage-lined pathways — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated May 28, 2026.
Landscaped grounds · Hiking trails — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Walking trails — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Trees · Plant life · Outside porches · Open pathways · Central colonnade · Outside porch — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Outdoor seating area · Patio — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Open space · Walkable trails — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Nearby walking trails — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Lush grounds — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Private patios · Individual gardens — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Trails — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Beautifully landscaped grounds — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Outdoor spaces · Pathways · Gardens · Outdoor space — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated May 28, 2026.
Personal gardens — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated May 28, 2026.
Private outdoor space at each small home · Pathways through trees and gardens — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Common areasSequoias Gallery · Lounge · Library · Cozy lounging areas (in each hospice suite) · The Sequoias Gallery · Performance venue · and 7 more
Sequoias Gallery — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Lounge · Library — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Cozy lounging areas — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated April 30, 2025.
The Sequoias Gallery · Art room — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Performance venue — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Expansive library — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated June 5, 2025.
Central colonnade gathering place · Central colonnade — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Guest rooms — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Private dining rooms · Meeting rooms — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
LaundryDone by staff
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Visitor parking
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
AmenitiesGuest rooms · Rollaway beds · 24-hour campus security · On-site gift shop · Lounge · Library · and 27 more
Guest rooms · Rollaway beds · Private dining and meeting rooms — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 30, 2026.
24-hour campus security · On-site gift shop · Lounge · Library · Daily newspapers · Beauty/barber salon · Massage therapy · Dry cleaning delivery · Rooms for guest stays · Carport parking — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Fish tank — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Indoor swimming pool · Spa · Fitness center — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Luxurious amenities — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Art room — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Swimming Pool — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Performance venue — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Expansive library — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated June 5, 2025.
24-hour emergency call systems — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Fitness and wellness activities · Private dining · Meeting rooms — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Amenities — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
On-site clinic — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Hot Tub Spa · Greenhouse · Gift Shop · ATM machine · Private community rooms — reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Housekeeping
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Salon or barber
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.

Meals, preferences & familiar food (13)Dining style · Special diets supported · Meals are cooked in the home's own kitchen

Dining styleRestaurant style
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Special diets supportedDietary needs and preferences · Dietary needs/preferences · Low fat · Vegan · Gluten-free
Dietary needs and preferences · Dietary needs/preferences — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Low fat · Vegan · Gluten-free — reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Meals are cooked in the home's own kitchen
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Vegetarian or vegan optionsVegetarian options · Vegetarian
Vegetarian options — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Vegetarian — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Meals provided per day1
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
All-day or flexible dining
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Residents choose between options at each meal
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Dishes the home names, on a published menu or in its own description of its foodFresh, seasonal meals
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Meals served in the room
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Family may eat with the resident
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Meals provided
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Places to eat on sitePatio for outdoor dining · Patio · Dining room
Patio for outdoor dining — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Patio · Dining room — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Dining atmosphereDining experiences focused on nutrition and wellness
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated June 17, 2026.

Activities & the rhythm of a day (6)The shape of an ordinary day, as the home describes it · Activity types offered · Activities tailored to the individual

The shape of an ordinary day, as the home describes itActive and engaging lifestyle with various amenities and activities.
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Activity types offeredOpportunities for volunteering, creativity, and purpose · Fitness and movement programs designed for active aging · Lifelong learning opportunities and educational experiences · Wellness programs supporting physical, emotional, intellectual, and social health · Guided headset activities visiting family homes, favorite travel destinations, or places where staff grew up · Art gallery and artists' studio outings · and 147 moreWe don’t have this home’s dementia-care disclosure. California requires a home that advertises dementia care to describe that care in writing when you ask.
Opportunities for volunteering, creativity, and purpose · Fitness and movement programs designed for active aging · Lifelong learning opportunities and educational experiences · Wellness programs supporting physical, emotional, intellectual, and social health — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated June 17, 2026.
Guided headset activities visiting family homes, favorite travel destinations, or places where staff grew up · Virtual reality experiences to visit or revisit places significant to residents — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Art gallery and artists' studio outings · Paint n' Sip · Art · Outings to art galleries · Local Bay Area artists' studios · Watercolor and oil painting — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Resident-led groups · Committees · Trips and excursions · Lawn bowling · Garden activities · Hiking · Bird-watching — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Swimming Pool · Holiday Decorating · Holiday Events and National Days · Volunteering · Creative Writing · Quilting and Knitting · Live musicians and performers · Educational and Cultural lectures with renowned speakers · Play Reading · Jigsaw Puzzle · Bridge · Movie Nights · Discussion Groups · Painting or Drawing · Themed Parties (luaus, barbeques, Cinco de Mayo, and many more) — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Personal assessment · Wellness lectures and programs — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Outdoor activities · Arts and crafts · Social gatherings · Performances · Trips · Hiking nearby scenic trails · Resident gardening · Scenic hiking trails nearby · Resident gardeners · Games of bridge · Mahjong · Other card games — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Contacting a committee representative or the Life Enrichment team to learn about joining a committee · Learning · Creating · Contributing · SSNC Philanthropy Liaison · Sequoia Living Board Advisory Committee · Dining Services · Past Presidents · Special Events · Portola Valley Town Council Liaison · Nominating Committee · Budget Committee · Audit Committee · Executive Committee · Welcoming new residents and helping them navigate their home and community · Facilities · Welcoming Committee · Resident committees — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Side-by-side art projects · Paint n' Sip events · Outings to local artists' studios · Charcoal and pastel drawing · Pottery · Sculpting · Woodworking · Seasonal art · Resident artwork exhibits · Art program · Outings to local Bay Area artists' studios · Seasonal art projects · Papier mache and decoupage — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Weekly guided virtual reality activities · Revisit childhood homes · Revisit favorite vacation destinations · Visit family homes · Visit favorite travel destinations · See where staff grew up · Virtual reality experiences to help residents overcome social isolation by visiting or revisiting significant places — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Committee involvement · Card games · Craft opportunities — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Organized trips · Groups · Excursions · Lawn bowling and garden activities on campus · Hiking and bird-watching in Windy Hill Preserve — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Holiday Events · National Days · Quilting · Knitting · Learning about art · Discussing artists · Oil · Watercolor · Ceramics · Textiles · Party planning committee · Movies · Games · Music · Shuffleboard · Line Dancing · Themed parties · Painting — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Engaging programs — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Personal assessments · Wellness lectures · Wellness programs · Fitness center with personal assessment — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Excursions to San Francisco and Monterey · Ballet performances · Opera performances · Concerts · Quartet performances · Lectures · Exercise classes · Quilting club · Excursions to see San Francisco and Monterey · Performances of ballet · Opera · Talks · Live concerts · Quartet · Lecture · Exercise class · Other crafts · Hiking on nearby scenic trails · Other craft opportunities · Gardening — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Fitness and wellness activities — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 30, 2026.
Activities engaging mind, body and spirit · Hiking trails — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Lifelong learning — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Classes · Activities · Experiences — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Fitness · Wellness — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Tabletop & Other Games/Programs · Horticultural Activities · Golf · Billiards · Table tennis · Swimming · Shopping — reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Activities tailored to the individual
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Exercise or fitness programStrength · Flexibility · Balance · Endurance · Group exercise classes · Lawn Bowling · and 20 more
Strength · Flexibility · Balance · Endurance · Lawn Bowling · Shuffleboard · Swimming · Swimming Pool · Balance Class · Joint Effort · Line Dancing — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Group exercise classes · Exercise · Yoga — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Stretching · Hiking · Exercise classes — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Aquacise — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Cardiovascular strength · Resistance training · Balance classes · Yoga classes · Fitness classes taught by a certified instructor · Balance training — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Fitness and wellness activities — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
General fitness — reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Trips outside the home
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Resident-run activities
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.

Faith, culture & language (1)Languages spoken by caregivers

Languages spoken by caregiversEnglish · Spanish
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.

Pets, routines & independence (6)Residents may bring a pet · Visiting hours · Pet types allowed

Residents may bring a pet
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Visiting hoursOpen anytime
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated April 30, 2025.
Pet types allowedOther small pets · Dogs (dogs and cats are allowed within weight limits; other small pets may be accepted) · Cats (dogs and cats are allowed within weight limits; other small pets may be accepted) · Other small pets that do not pose a danger to residents and staff (dogs and cats are allowed within weight limits; other small pets may be accepted)
Other small pets — reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 30, 2026.
Dogs · Cats · Other small pets that do not pose a danger to residents and staff — reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Overnight guests
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 30, 2026.
Family may bring a pet to visit
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
Pet types the home excludesSmall dogs
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.

Visiting & staying involved (10)Events the home invites families to · Transport for group outings · Office or phone hours as published

Events the home invites families to
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 11, 2026.
Transport for group outings
Reported on Caring.com · seen September 9, 2026.
Office or phone hours as publishedMon-Fri 9am-5pm
Reported on Network of Care · seen September 9, 2026.
Neighborhood or area namedSan Francisco Peninsula in San Mateo County
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Support services for families
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated April 30, 2025.
Transportation
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.
Tour scheduling link
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 11, 2026.
Open on the website
SettingCampus
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated April 30, 2025.
Contact form
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated September 11, 2026.
Open on the website
Notes on visiting accessJust 15 minutes from home
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.

About the home (2)Brand or trade name · For-profit or nonprofit

Brand or trade nameThe Sequoias Portola Valley
Reported on sequoialiving.org · source dated January 21, 2026.
For-profit or nonprofitNonprofit
Reported on sequoialiving.org · seen October 27, 2026.

Where it is

501 Portola Road, Portola Valley, CA 94028Address from the public record · October 25, 2026. Confirm the entrance with the home before visiting.

Opening the neighborhood map…

Stanford Health CareHospital · General acute care, on the state’s list4.8 mi

Straight-line distances; check the drive or the walk. Hospital: the nearest general acute care hospital on the state’s list (CDPH, September 16, 2026).

Open directions

The state record

California inspects every licensed home and publishes what it found. A citation does not make a home unsafe, and an empty file does not make a home good.

CDSS public record, read October 25, 2026 · License #410500567 · See the state’s own record

The last 36 months — 6 of 7 documents

20254 state visits · 4 documents

Nov 21, 2025Facility evaluation reportCase Management - Annual ContinuationReport on file

Type of visit: Case Management - Annual Continuation

On 11/21/2025, Licensing Program Analyst(LPA) John Calandra arrived at the facility to continue the 1-year required Annual Inspection. LPA Calandra was greeted by Pam Marron, Director of Residential Services and explained the purpose of the visit. Amanda Martinez, Nurse Manager arrived later during the visit. LPA toured the physical plant. This facility has 30 buildings on the campus(2 of which are memory care and Assisted Living). The facility has a bowling green, spa/pool, putting green, Health Center, Dining room, Skilled Nursing Facility(not licensed by the Department), and Library. LPA inspected random rooms in Memory Care(The Gardens) and Assisted Living(The Lodge). All bedrooms had the required furniture and sufficient lighting. No accessible bodies of water or hazards were observed. All bathrooms inspected had slip resistant flooring and grab bars in the showers. Hot water temperature was measured within the required 105-120 degrees Fahrenheit. The facility's fire alarms and carbon monoxide detectors were observed to be in working order. The facility's fire extinguishers were observed to be fully charged and last inspected on 4/7/2025. The facility had the required 7 days of non perishables and 2 days of perishables on hand. No food was expired. All sharp objects, soap, poisons and medications were observed to be locked and in-accessible to persons in care. LPA received the following documents: Current LIC 500, Administrators Certificates, Emergency Operations Plan A review of Centrally Stored Medications indicated that medications for residents were properly labeled with instructions on dosage and times of day and matched the Centrally Stored Medication Records(CSMR) kept at the facility. No deficiencies cited during today's visit. An exit interview was conducted. This report was reviewed with facility representatives and a copy provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Nov 21, 2025

Nov 20, 2025Facility evaluation reportRoutine visitReport on file

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

On 11/20/2025, Licensing Program Analyst(LPA) John Calandra arrived at the facility, to conduct the Annual 1-year required inspection. LPA Calandra was greeted by Suzanne Wasley-Fairley, Executive Director and Amanda Martinez, Nurse Manager explained the purpose of the visit. LPA reviewed 6 staff files and 5 resident files. All were observed to be complete. LPA collected the following documents during the visit: Current LIC 500(Personnel Summary Report), Liability Insurance and Administrator Certificates for S1, S2, and S3. During record review, LPA observed that S1 did not have TB results. A Type A citation was provided for this citation. Deficiency is cited under the California Code of Regulations(CCR), Title 22. Failure to correct the Deficiency by the Proof of Correction(POC) due date may result in Civil Penalties. This Annual will be completed at a later date. An exit interview was conducted. This report was reviewed with facility representatives and a copy provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Nov 20, 2025

May 1, 2025Facility evaluation reportCase Management - IncidentReport on file

Type of visit: Case Management - Incident

On 5/1/2025, Licensing Program Analyst(LPA) John Calandra arrived at the facility to conduct a case management visit follow up on an incident reported to the Department on 4/24/2025 regarding a resident who slipped and fell in their room and injured themselves. LPA Calandra was greeted by David Nelson, Clinic Manager and explained the purpose of visit. Through document review and interview, LPA learned that R1 who lives in independent living fell on 4/17/2025 and injured themselves. R1 contacted a family member who contacted the facility to inform them of the fall and staff responded promptly. Community Care Licensing Division(CCLD)/California Department of Social Services(DSS) does not provide oversight into the independent living portion of the facility. During the visit LPA reviewed and obtained copies of the following documents: - R1's physician report -R1's Appraisal of Needs and Services No deficiencies were cited during today's visit. An exit interview was conducted. This report was reviewed with David Nelson, Clinic Manager and a copy of the report left at the facility.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, May 1, 2025

Mar 7, 2025Facility evaluation reportCase Management - IncidentReport on file

Type of visit: Case Management - Incident

On 3/7/2025, Licensing Program Analysts(LPAs) John Calandra and Yi Sam Jian, arrived at the facility to conduct a Case Management visit in regards to a self-reported incident report received by the Department on 2/25/2025, regarding a resident who sustained multiple fractures. LPAs were greeted by David Nelson, Director of Clinical Services. LPAs received copies of the following documents: - Care notes for R1 - LIC 602: Physician's Report for R1 - Service Plan for R1 - Admissions Agreement No deficiencies cited during today's visit. An exit interview was conducted. This report was reviewed with David Nelson, Director of Clinical Services and a copy of the report provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Mar 7, 2025

20241 state visit · 1 document

Nov 25, 2024Facility evaluation reportRoutine visitReport on file

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

On 11/25/2024, LPA Grace Donato made an unannounced annual visit to the facility. LPA met with Clinic Manager David Nelson, Linda West and Gloria Heimlich. LPA explained the purpose of the visit. LPA toured the facility inside and outside including a random sample of resident rooms, common areas, and kitchen area. Kitchen is located in the independent living building. Food is delivered in assisted living and memory care building. LPA observed residents engaged in different activities. Hot water temperatures were tested at 106 degF. The residents have adequate amount of linens and incontinence care items. All personal belongings are intact. Facility has sprinkler system. All fire extinguishers have been checked and current. Resident bedrooms and bathrooms were observed to be in good repair. Bathrooms are equipped with grab bars and non-skid floors. There is adequate amount of food, 2 days for perishables and & 7 days non-perishable. Eight resident records and eight staff records were reviewed. Resident records are updated, complete and signed. Staff records are complete. Facility accepts hospice residents and are in compliance with the required waiver requirements. Medication review was done, and all medications are accounted for, and centrally stored medication records are updated. LPA requested the following documents: LIC500 Personnel Report & Liability Insurance. No deficiencies are cited at this time. Report is reviewed and a copy is provided.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Nov 25, 2024

20231 state visit · 1 document

Dec 16, 2023Facility evaluation reportRoutine visitReport on file

Type of visit: Required - 1 Year

Licensing Program Analyst (LPA) Christina Valerio arrived unannounced to conduct an annual required inspection. LPA entered through the main lobby, met with front desk staff, and explained the purpose of the visit. Front desk staff contacted security to escort LPA to the Lodge and the Gardens area of the facility. LPA then met with lead nurse, which contacted Administrator April Thompson. April directed LPA to contact Sue Fairley, Executive Director (ED). ED Fairley appointed Nursing Staff Carmen and Flora to carry out the visit. The current census is 300 for the entire community. For the Assisted Living and Memory Care areas, the census is currently 40. LPA Valerio and facility staff toured The Gardens and The Lodge to ensure compliance with Title 22 regulations. LPA observed The Gardens. Exit doors were equipped with working alarm systems and required a lock code to exit. LPA observed toxins, cleaning supplies, sharps, and medications locked away and inaccessible to residents in care. Resident bedrooms were observed to be fully furnished. Bathrooms were observed to be clean, sanitary, and have necessary grab bars and hygiene supplies. Hot water temperature was measured to deliver hot water at 112.3*F, which is within the regulatory range of 105-120*F. LPA observed the Activity Director carrying out activities with residents. No health or safety concerns observed for The Gardens. LPA observed The Lodge side of the facility. Common areas, resident bedrooms, dinning area, medication room, and staff offices were observed. LPA observed residents in their bedrooms, sitting in common areas, walking out to the community, and eating lunch. Hot water temperature was measured at 113.0*F. No health or safety concerns observed for The Lodge. Fire pull alarm system, fire extinguishers, carbon monoxide detector, and fire detectors were observed to be in working condition for both areas of the facility. Continues on LIC 809 - C... Page 1 of 2 Continued from LIC 809 LPA reviewed 4 resident files. 4 out of 4 resident files were observed to be out of compliance. A copy of the LIC 811 was provided to staff for ED Sue Fairley for review. All staff on shift were observed to be fingerprinted and cleared. LPA Valerio spoke to Administrator April Thompson via cell phone. Administrator April informed LPA Valerio of an Administrator Change. LPA to inform San Bruno Regional Office LPA Jaime Vado and LPM Cara Smith. LPA Valerio requested the following annual documentation be sent to the San Bruno Regional Office: LIC 500 - Personnel Report LIC 308 - Designation of Facility Responsibility LIC 402 Surety Bond (if applicable) Qualifications of Administrator for ED Sue Fairly LIC 200 - Change of Administrator Application LIC 610E - Emergency Disaster Plan Copy of Liability Insurance Per California Code of Regulations (CCR) - Title 22, Division 6, Chapter 8, deficiences were observed and are being cited today on the attached LIC 809 - D page. Appeal rights were provided. An exit interview was held, and a copy of the report was provided to Nursing staff Flora and Carmen.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Dec 16, 2023

Earlier years2023 · 1 document

20231 state visit · 1 document

Oct 6, 2023Complaint investigation reportSubstantiated

Allegation investigated: Facility is not accepting resident back after discharge from a skilled nursing unit

On this day Licensing Program Analysts (LPA) Jaime Vado and John Calandra conducted an unannounced complaint investigation visit to deliver the findings regarding the allegation received. LPA met with Resident Services Director Pam Marron and explained the purpose of today's visit. During the course of the investigation interviews were conducted with the faciilty, the resident, the complainant, and other outside agencies. Interdepartmental agencies also assisted in the investigation in order to reach a finding. The resident was seeking placement back into an independent living unit. Per facility assessments and policy he is not able to return to independent living due to ambulatory status. The resident has been in the facility's SNF for several months. The facility has not complied with the transfer process required by health and safety code as outlined. The facility has not followed the transfer process as indicated in health and safety code. Per the records reviewed and recommendations provided the resident should be discharged from the facility SNF and transferred to assisted living to meet his/her needs. The allegation is substantiated. Based on LPA interviews, items, and letters received, the preponderance of evidence standard has been met, therefore the above allegation is found to be SUBSTANTIATED. California Code of Regulations, Title 22, Division 6, are being cited on the attached LIC9099D. Report is reviewed with Pam Marron Substantiatedthe state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Oct 6, 2023 · control 14-AS-20230316122510

From the deficiency page — Deficiency type: Type B · Section cited: HSC 1788(a)(10)(A)-(C) · Plan of correction due date: May 26, 2023

Provisions of Contract - (a) A continuing care contract shall contain all of the following: (10) The procedures and conditions under which a resident may be voluntarily and involuntarily transferred from a designated living unit. The transfer procedures, at a minimum, shall include provisions addressing all of the following circumstances under which a transfer may be authorized: (A) A continuing care retirement community may transfer a resident under the following conditions, taking into account the appropriateness and necessity of the transfer and the goal of promoting resident independence: (i) The resident is nonambulatory. The definition of "nonambulatory," as provided in Section 13131, shall either be stated in full in the continuing care contract or be cited. If Section 13131 is cited, a copy of the statute shall be made available to the resident, either as an attachment to the continuing care contract or by specifying that it will be provided upon request. If a nonambulatory resident occupies a room that has a fire clearance for nonambulatory residents, transfer shall not be necessary. (ii) The resident develops a physical or mental condition that is detrimental to or endangers the health, safety, or well-being of the resident or another person. (iii) The resident's condition or needs require the resident's transfer to an assisted living care unit or skilled nursing facility, because the level of care required by the resident exceeds that which may be appropriately provided in the living unit. (iv) The resident's condition or needs require the resident's transfer to a nursing facility, hospital, or other facility, and the provider has no facilities available to provide that level of care. (B) Before the continuing care retirement community transfers a resident under any of the conditions set forth in subparagraph (A), the community shall satisfy all of the following requirements: (i) Involve the resident and the resident's responsible person, as defined in paragraph (6) of subdivision (r) of Section 87101 of Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations, and upon the resident's or responsible person's request, family members, or the resident's physician or other appropriate health professional, in the assessment process that forms the basis for the level of care transfer decision by the provider. The provider shall offer an explanation of the assessment process, which shall include, but not be limited to, an evaluation of the physical and cognitive capacities of the resident. An assessment tool or tools, including scoring and evaluating criteria, shall be used in the determination of the appropriateness of the transfer. The provider shall make copies of the completed assessment to share with the resident or the resident's responsible person. (ii) Prior to sending a formal notification of transfer, the provider shall conduct a care conference with the resident and the resident's responsible person, and, upon the resident's or responsible person's request, family members, and the resident's health care professionals, to explain the reasons for transfer. (iii) Notify the resident and the resident's responsible person of the reasons for the transfer in writing. 51 (iv) Notwithstanding any other provision of this subparagraph, if the resident does not have impairment of cognitive abilities, the resident may request that his or her responsible person not be involved in the transfer process. (v) The notice of transfer shall be made at least 30 days before the transfer is expected to occur, except when the health or safety of the resident or other residents is in danger, or the transfer is required by the resident's urgent medical needs. Under those circumstances, the written notice shall be made as soon as practicable before the transfer. (vi) The written notice shall contain the reasons for the transfer, the effective date, the designated level of care or location to which the resident will be transferred, a statement of the resident's right to a review of the transfer decision at a care conference, as provided for in subparagraph (C), and for disputed transfer decisions, the right to review by the Continuing Care Contracts Branch of the State Department of Social Services, as provided for in subparagraph (D). The notice shall also contain the name, address, and telephone number of the department's Continuing Care Contracts Branch. (vii) The continuing care retirement community shall provide sufficient preparation and orientation to the resident to ensure a safe and orderly transfer and to minimize trauma. (viii) For disputed transfer decisions, the provider shall provide documentation of the resident’s medical reports, other documents showing the resident’s current mental and physical function, the prognosis, and the expected duration of relevant conditions, if applicable. The documentation shall include an explanation of how the criteria set out in subparagraph (A) are met. The provider shall make copies of the completed report to share with the resident’s responsible person. (C) The resident has the right to review the transfer decision at a subsequent care conference that shall include the resident, the resident's responsible person, and, upon the resident's or responsible person's request, family members, the resident's physician or other appropriate health care professional, and members of the provider's interdisciplinary team. The local ombudsperson may also be included in the care conference, upon the request of the resident, the resident's responsible person, or the provider. This health and safety code requirement has not been met as evidenced by: Facility did not follow the rules as outlined in HSC 1788(a)(10)(A)-(C) regarding resident trasfers.the state’s words, verbatim · CDSS document, Oct 6, 2023

Plan of correction: Facility shall ensure to follow the items outlined under CCRC Provisions of Contract regarding resident transfers. Review and proof of understanding is to be recieved by the Department.

300 of 328 beds were occupied at the October 6, 2023 state visit — a count on that day, not an opening.

License holder

Sequoia Living, Inc., licensed since 1985.

Operates 3 licensed homes in California. Running more than one home is common and is neither good nor bad on its own.

Tamalpais · Greenbrae
The Sequoias San Francisco · San Francisco

The state’s totals for this licenseSince 1985, as the state’s facility page counts them

State visits on file: 7
Total complaints: 1
Substantiated allegations: 1
Type A citations: 0
Type B citations: 1

These are the state’s own totals for this license since 1985, per CDSS records. The state counts them apart from the documents above, and they can differ from what those documents show; the documents say what each visit found. One complaint can contain several allegations.

Compare with homes the same size

	This home	Typical
Type A citations	0	0
Type B citations	1	1
Substantiated allegations	1	2
Total complaints	1	6

“Typical” is the statewide median for licensed homes this size. It does not adjust for years licensed, and older licenses have had more visits and reports. The median is across the 1,354 licensed larger communities (16+ beds) in the state record. The figures compared are the state’s totals, not the documents.

What the state’s words mean

Routine visita visit the state records as “Required” — a scheduled visit, not one made in answer to a complaintSubstantiatedthe state found the allegation more likely true than notUnsubstantiatedthere was not enough evidence to prove a violation occurred — not a finding of wrongdoingUnfoundedthe evidence showed the allegation was false, could not have happened, or had no reasonable basisType A citationa violation that poses an immediate risk to health, safety or personal rights if it is not correctedType B citationa violation that could become a risk if not corrected, or one involving records, resources or required services

CDSS citation definitions (PDF) ↗ · CDSS complaint outcomes ↗

An “unsubstantiated” complaint is not a finding of wrongdoing — it means the state investigated and could not confirm the allegation. Outcome words are the state’s own; we never grade, score, or color a record, and we publish no reviews — the state’s dated documents stand in their place.

Open CDSS facility search ↗Report a record error Operate this home? Respond or correct, free →

Frequently asked questions

A citation does not make a home unsafe, and an empty file does not make a home good.

Quick answers about The Sequoias-Portola Valley

Is The Sequoias-Portola Valley licensed?

The state lists this license as “Licensed,” per CDSS records as of October 25, 2026.

How many residents is The Sequoias-Portola Valley licensed for?

328 residents — a large community, per CDSS records as of October 25, 2026.

Has The Sequoias-Portola Valley been cited?

0 Type A and 1 Type B citation since 1985, per CDSS records as of October 25, 2026. Those records count 7 state visits over the same years.

Is The Sequoias-Portola Valley still open?

This license was on the CDSS roster as of November 12, 2026.

What does The Sequoias-Portola Valley cost?

$5,588 a month to start — listed by the home on its own website · October 27, 2026.

The home lists this starting rate on its own website for studio, seen October 27, 2026.

Among 21 other homes of a similar licensed size across San Mateo County that publish a starting rate, the middle half runs $4,988 to $8,025 a month, and the middle figure is $6,495 (n = 21 other homes publishing a starting rate).

Each of those is a home’s own published figure, gathered on its own date between September and October 2026 — not an average of ours, and not a survey. Similar size means small and mid-size homes counted together, and large communities counted on their own, because they are different markets.

A home outside the band is not overcharging or underpricing: a starting rate covers different things in different homes, which is the first thing to ask about.

The price is made in the phone call. Nothing here is a quote, an offer or a discount.

A starting rate is the room and the base care. California homes commonly bill care levels, medication management, supplies, transport and a second person in the room as extras. Many also charge a one-time fee at move-in. Ask for that list in writing before anything is signed.

Only prices a home put out itself count here: its own website, a listing it supplied, or a price a listing site says the home confirmed. Prices a site shows without saying where they came from are left out.

Does The Sequoias-Portola Valley take Medi-Cal?

On Medi-Cal’s Assisted Living Waiver: this home is not on the DHCS participation list dated October 1, 2026. Ask the program about current options. The waiver pays for care services, not room and board.

Who holds the license?

The license is held by Sequoia Living, Inc., per CDSS records as of October 25, 2026. See the homes licensed to Sequoia Living, Inc. — at least 4 on the state roster.

Is there a hospital nearby?

Stanford Health Care is 4.8 miles away in a straight line, per the CDPH licensed-hospital list dated September 16, 2026. See licensed care homes near it.

Can The Sequoias-Portola Valley keep a resident on hospice?

Hospice care is approved on this license, covering up to 15 residents, per CDSS records as of October 25, 2026.