Amber Homecare in San Diego, CA

7417 Cowles Mountain Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92119

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.5 from 46 reviews
5 stars
38
4 stars
2
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 stars
5

Assisted Living

Overall Review of Amber Homecare

Pros

  • pro Lakela is one of the best nurses the reviewer has ever dealt with; she is kind, very friendly, and an all-around nice person.
  • pro Anna Dawson is very professional and genuinely cares about how patients are doing; she gradually increases exercises and is a joy to work with.
  • pro Erica is professional, friendly, and caring; she takes the time to address questions and concerns and helps with prescription issues and other services.
  • pro Jay is the best physical therapist the reviewer has had in years; he motivates and gets patients moving.
  • pro Maryann is a lovely occupational therapist who was a delight to work with and very capable.
  • pro Marsha Kalka is an exceptional home health aide who is courteous, helpful, on time, and makes clients feel safe; she assists with showers and other tasks.
  • pro Shay is an absolute delight for showers; she is thorough, patient, professional, and compassionate.
  • pro Paige Beveridge, OT, is outstanding, punctual, and provides helpful tips to support recovery after surgery.
  • pro Andrew Case, PTA, is a great provider who helps patients get back to a good place and is highly regarded.
  • pro Jaquetta Romero, RN, is fantastic in her care; very caring and kind.
  • pro Selena is a home health nurse who provides five-star care.
  • pro Amber Home Health Care staff are described as amazing, knowledgeable, and highly capable in patient care.
  • pro Marsha Kalka is a blessing to her clients, with evident passion to help others from the first visit.
  • pro Subrata is a very capable physical therapist who earned five stars.

Cons

  • pro The reviewer described Amber Home Health Care as "like pulling teeth" to get anything done.
  • pro They reported persistent communication failures and conflicting information about fax transmissions and calls.
  • pro The staff were described as dismissive of legitimate complaints.
  • pro A physical therapist was criticized for not wearing shoe coverings, entering with dirty shoes, and not sanitizing his hands.
  • pro The agency was alleged to have poor follow-up on medications and little after-hours support.
  • pro The hospice service was labeled the worst ever, with frequent staff turnover and medication issues.
  • pro They advised others to stay away from Amber Home Health Care.

Review

Amber Home Health Care in San Diego is best suited for families seeking in-home, hands-on care that blends nursing, therapy, and personal aide services into a cohesive rehabilitation and daily-support package. The community shines when a senior needs post-hospital recovery, ongoing home health oversight, or hospice-adjacent support that emphasizes safety, dignity, and practical independence. The strongest value comes from a culture of attentive staff who deliver consistent shower assistance, timely assessments, and collaborative therapy planning, all aimed at keeping a loved one at home with quality care.

Alternatives should be considered for families that prize absolute reliability in scheduling and unambiguous, prompt issue resolution. Several reviews flag inconsistent administrative responsiveness, gaps in communication, or difficulty advancing paperwork and referrals. If a family cannot tolerate even sporadic gaps in follow-up, or if a caregiver's availability fluctuates enough to disrupt routines, exploring other providers with more centralized scheduling and stronger after-hours support would be prudent. Location-specific performance also matters; what works well in San Diego may not mirror experiences elsewhere, so a local, in-person staff assessment is essential.

The core strengths lie in the care team's clinical proficiency and the genuine, human touch delivered by nurses, therapists, and aides. Lakela, Erica, and Jaquetta are repeatedly praised for kindness, patient listening, and practical problem-solving. Physical therapy, when guided by Jay, feels purposeful and motivating, while occupational therapy with Maryann delivers thoughtful, person-centered approaches. The Home Health Aide team, especially Marsha Kalka, is described as consistently on time, respectful, and able to address safety concerns - ranging from shower safety to daily living tasks with a calm, reassuring presence. These elements collectively offset the inconveniences that can arise from bureaucratic friction.

Additional positives reinforce the decision: a well-regarded therapy complement includes Subrata as a PT and Cheryl "Sherry" as an OT who are seen as highly capable and dedicated. Client comments about Andrew Case PTA and the broader therapy team emphasize progress and practical outcomes, such as regained mobility and quicker return-to-function after surgery. The office and field staff receive praise for professionalism and dependable communication, and several families express deep appreciation for the seemingly "lifesaver" quality of the aides during intimate care tasks. When staff synchronize with nursing and therapy plans, the path to safer, more independent living becomes tangible.

Yet caution is warranted where care quality and responsiveness appear inconsistent. A subset of reviews notes experiences with a clinician who did not observe proper sanitation protocols or who spoke or behaved in ways that felt dismissive of family concerns. There are mentions of scheduling lapses, unreturned calls, and a sense that complaints were not prioritized by the agency. While these voices represent a minority relative to the strong majority, they underscore the need for families to actively manage care: request a dedicated care manager, insist on clear visit windows, and establish a dependable escalation path for any after-hours concerns. Such due diligence helps ensure the strongest possible experience.

In the end, Amber Home Health Care offers a compelling platform for comprehensive in-home support, particularly for seniors navigating recovery, chronic-management needs, or end-of-life care within a familiar environment. The standout staff - Marsha Kalka and the therapy and nursing professionals - provide a level of warmth, attentiveness, and skill that moves care from basic assistance to meaningful, person-centered recovery and daily living support. To optimize outcomes, families should vet candidates individually, confirm staff consistency, and set explicit expectations around scheduling, communication, and responsiveness. If a consistent, closely supervised home care model is the goal, Amber is a strong match; if the priority is flawless, uniformly reliable operations with minimal chance of scheduling hiccups, exploring a few alternate providers or requesting a longer-term, clearly defined care plan with guaranteed coverage may be worth the extra step.

Features

Housing

  • 6 resident community capacity 6 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.

Amenities

  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • San Diego International-Lindbergh (12 miles away) San Diego International-Lindbergh (12 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Amber Homecare is an assisted living community located in San Diego, CA. Our community offers a range of amenities to ensure the comfort and convenience of our residents. The dining room provides a spacious and welcoming environment for meals, which can be customized to accommodate special dietary restrictions. Each living space is fully furnished, offering a cozy and home-like atmosphere for our residents.

Our community also features a beautiful garden and outdoor space where residents can relax or engage in outdoor activities. Housekeeping services are provided to maintain cleanliness and tidiness throughout the community. Additionally, move-in coordination is available to assist new residents with transitioning into their new home seamlessly.

We understand the importance of staying connected in today's digital age, which is why we offer telephone and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access to all residents.

At Amber Homecare, we prioritize the well-being of our residents by providing comprehensive care services. Our highly skilled caregivers offer assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. We also coordinate with health care providers to ensure that our residents receive the necessary medical attention. For individuals with diabetes, we provide specialized meal plans that cater to their dietary needs.

Nutrition is an essential aspect of overall health, which is why our community focuses on meal preparation and service. Our dedicated staff ensures that each meal is not only delicious but also meets individual dietary requirements.

Residents can enjoy various activities organized by our team through scheduled daily activities. These activities promote socialization, engagement, and overall well-being among our residents.

Located in close proximity to cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, and hospitals; Amber Homecare conveniently allows easy access to essential services and amenities for our residents.

At Amber Homecare in San Diego, CA; we strive to create a warm and supportive environment where our residents can thrive while receiving top-quality care from our dedicated team of professionals.

Nearby Places of Interest

Restaurants

  • Jack In The Box (1.1 miles)
  • BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse (2.4 miles)
  • Black Bear Diner El Cajon (2.4 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.4 miles)
  • Raising Cane's Chicken Fingers (2.5 miles)
  • Olive Garden (2.6 miles)
  • Phil's BBQ (2.6 miles)

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (1.2 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • Sharp Grossmont Hospital Pharmacy (2.4 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.5 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2.7 miles)

Cafes

  • The Simple Coffee House (1.8 miles)
  • Starbucks (3.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (4.1 miles)
  • Starbucks (5.6 miles)
  • The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (6.7 miles)
  • Starbucks (8.2 miles)
  • Communal Coffee (8.5 miles)

Hospitals

  • Stanford Court Nursing (2.2 miles)
  • Sharp Grossmont Hospital Brier Patch (2.3 miles)
  • Kaiser Permanente San Diego Medical Center/Kaiser Foundation Hospital (4.9 miles)
  • Sharp Soc (6.7 miles)
  • Rady Children's Hospital (8 miles)
  • Rady's Children's Hospital San Diego Large Waiting Room, Frost Street, Entrance 8 (8 miles)
  • Sharp Memorial Hospital (8.2 miles)

Transportation

  • Grossmont Transit Center (2.3 miles)
  • Montgomery Field Airport (MYF) (7.3 miles)

Places of Worship

  • El Camino Grace Church (2.9 miles)
  • Foothills Christian Church (2.9 miles)
  • Skyline Church (6.1 miles)
  • Our Lady Of Perpetual Help Cathollc Church (7 miles)
  • Saint Gregory The Great Catholic Church (8.6 miles)

Parks

  • Town Center Community Park (3.2 miles)
  • Mount Helix Park (3.8 miles)
  • Shadow Hill Park (4 miles)
  • Semillon Boulevard. Mini Park (7.9 miles)
  • Civita Park (8.2 miles)
  • Lindbergh Park (8.4 miles)
  • Cal's Point (8.8 miles)

Physicians

  • Fereshteh Jahanpanah Medical Clinic (3.6 miles)
  • Dr Dominguez And Dr Ancona-Young Office (3.9 miles)
  • Elahe Toulouie, MD (4.6 miles)
  • Kaiser Permanente Vandever Medical Offices (5.2 miles)
  • Pushpanjalie Wijeratne, MD (5.4 miles)
  • Kaiser Permanente Viewridge Medical Offices 2 (6.3 miles)
  • Sharp Rees-Stealy San Diego Radiology (8.3 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Mission Valley 2 (8.4 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Amber Homecare?

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