11500 Dolan Avenue
Downey, CA 90241
252 beds • Est. 2016 (9 years) • Accepts Medi-Cal (ALW) • Get directions
10 serious and 14 minor state citations across 49 state inspections, with 8 substantiated complaints. Last inspected in February 2026.
Safety data last updated July 2026
Part of the FYI Safety Scorecard, the independent safety rating for every California assisted living facility.
Downey Retirement Center is a 252-bed assisted living community conveniently located near PIH Health Hospital-Downey and the Stonewood Shopping Center. The facility offers independent living, assisted living, and a dedicated secured dementia care unit called the Oasis.
Programming is more robust than the straightforward website suggests — the activity calendar includes music and rhythm classes, adult education, arts and crafts, live entertainment, happy hours, theater nights, pet therapy, and therapy gardens. The community has been operating for 9 years and accepts Medi-Cal through the ALW program.
Accepts Medi-Cal through the ALW program
Participates in the Assisted Living Waiver, which can meaningfully offset costs for eligible residents. For a 252-bed community offering multiple care levels including dementia care, ALW participation makes this more financially accessible than many alternatives.
Dedicated dementia unit with its own identity
The Oasis is a fully staffed, secured 24-hour dementia care unit — not just a locked hallway. Having a named, separate unit suggests dedicated staffing and programming for memory care residents. Ask to tour the Oasis specifically and observe its daily routines.
Diverse activity programming
Music and rhythm classes, adult education, arts and crafts, live entertainment including singing and dancing, happy hours, theater nights, pet therapy, therapy gardens, and cognitive therapy. The breadth suggests genuine investment in resident engagement. Verify the actual weekly schedule when you visit.
Hospital proximity and respite care option
Located near PIH Health Hospital-Downey for medical emergencies. Also offers respite care for families who need short-term placement while traveling or during recovery periods. Both are practical features that add flexibility.
Serious safety concerns
10 serious and 14 minor citations across 49 state inspections, with 8 verified complaints. Read the state's full inspection reports and press on what's been fixed before deciding.
252 beds is a very large facility
At this scale, the community operates more like a large institutional setting than a home-like environment. Common areas will be busy, dining rooms crowded, and personal attention naturally more diluted. Visit at meal times and evenings to observe the reality.
Website is minimal and dated
The online presence gives you very little to evaluate. Floor plans, staff bios, daily schedules, and pricing are all absent from the website. You'll need to visit in person and ask specific questions to form a meaningful impression.
Pricing is estimated, please contact the facility to confirm.
11500 Dolan Avenue, Downey, CA 90241
Get directionsLicense data from the California Department of Social Services, Community Care Licensing Division. View full state record
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