Lori Gross
Co-Founder, Gold Coast Senior Options, Inc.
In January of 1995, we relocated from New York to Santa Maria. We became close friends with our neighbors Phil and Betty. They adopted our girls as their own grandchildren. Gary's parents passed away many years ago. Phil and Betty had no children of their own but lovingly and proudly took over the grandparent role. They participated in every part of our girls lives. Soon after, Phil was diagnosed with Alzheimer's. Betty asked if I would help them stay in their own home. For over 10 years, I was their primary caregiver, helping them with: Medical Appointments, Shopping, Finances, Personal Care, etc. When Phil passed away, I was there to help Betty with all the arrangements. After a fall and brain surgery, Betty was transferred to a local nursing home for recovery. It was clear that Betty would not be able to return to her own home so we started preparing for Betty to come and live with us but she was never able to regain her strength and soon passed away. Phil and Betty were both Veterans. I prepared and handled both of their military funerals. I also learned first hand the important issues of being a full time care giver as well as how to handle the difficult challenges of Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease.
My company is a testimony of the Love, Friendship, and Respect that Betty and I had for each other. Betty was the mother-in-law, I never knew and my best friend. After Betty passed away a large void was left in my life. I realized that I could fulfill my passion and desire for helping families find the right solution for their loved ones. I know that going through the process of finding the right care is hard because I have been there. It is extremely rewarding to know I can make a difference in people's lives when they are faced with making this difficult decision. Our team is here to help and guide you through the process.
My company is a testimony of the Love, Friendship, and Respect that Betty and I had for each other. Betty was the mother-in-law, I never knew and my best friend. After Betty passed away a large void was left in my life. I realized that I could fulfill my passion and desire for helping families find the right solution for their loved ones. I know that going through the process of finding the right care is hard because I have been there. It is extremely rewarding to know I can make a difference in people's lives when they are faced with making this difficult decision. Our team is here to help and guide you through the process.
Gary Gross
Co-Founder, Gold Coast Senior Options, Inc.
After retiring from my first career, my wife Lori and I moved from New York to California in 1995. Not long after, we became caregivers for our neighbors, Phil and Betty – Phil was just diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Walking beside them through that journey changed our lives forever and opened our eyes to how complex and emotional senior care decisions can be.
When Phil and Betty passed away, Lori and I founded Gold Coast Senior Options to help other families facing similar challenges. Our goal was simple: to provide guidance, compassion, and hope to families navigating the next chapter of care for their loved ones.
Over the years, I’ve continued to stay deeply involved in Alzheimer’s advocacy and community service. I served as Chair of The Walk to End Alzheimer’s for 16 years and continue as an honorary chair today. I also facilitated an Alzheimer’s support group, and I serve on the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer’s Association, along with two additional nonprofit boards that focus on helping low-income and underprivileged communities.
This work is deeply personal to me. Every family I meet reminds me why we started – to make sure no one has to face these decisions alone.
When Phil and Betty passed away, Lori and I founded Gold Coast Senior Options to help other families facing similar challenges. Our goal was simple: to provide guidance, compassion, and hope to families navigating the next chapter of care for their loved ones.
Over the years, I’ve continued to stay deeply involved in Alzheimer’s advocacy and community service. I served as Chair of The Walk to End Alzheimer’s for 16 years and continue as an honorary chair today. I also facilitated an Alzheimer’s support group, and I serve on the Board of Directors for the Alzheimer’s Association, along with two additional nonprofit boards that focus on helping low-income and underprivileged communities.
This work is deeply personal to me. Every family I meet reminds me why we started – to make sure no one has to face these decisions alone.
Finding the Right Fit for
Your Loved One
At Gold Coast Senior Options, we know that choosing the right level of care can feel overwhelming – but you don’t have to make that decision alone. Our mission is to guide seniors and their families with honesty, compassion, and expertise every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Respite Care, or Skilled Nursing, we’ll help you understand each option clearly and connect you with trusted communities that meet your loved one’s needs, preferences, and budget.
Because helping seniors isn’t just what we do – it’s why we exist.
Because helping seniors isn’t just what we do – it’s why we exist.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Assisted Living?
At Gold Coast Senior Options, we help families understand what Assisted Living really means – a supportive lifestyle that allows seniors to maintain independence while receiving help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and meals. Assisted Living communities combine the comfort of a private residence with the peace of mind of 24-hour care, along with opportunities for social connection, recreation, and wellness. At its heart, Assisted Living is about balance – offering just the right amount of support so seniors can continue living life on their own terms, surrounded by community, safety, and compassionate care.
What is Independent Living?
At Gold Coast Senior Options, we believe Independent Living is about freedom, community, and peace of mind. These communities are designed for active seniors who want to enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle without the worries of home upkeep, cooking, or cleaning. Independent Living offers private apartments, vibrant social activities, and a variety of amenities – all in a safe, welcoming environment where residents can make the most of every day. It’s an ideal choice for those who are ready to simplify life and focus on the things they love most.
What is Memory Care?
At Gold Coast Senior Options, we understand the unique challenges families face when a loved one is living with Alzheimer’s or another form of Dementia. Memory Care communities provide a secure, structured environment designed to support both safety and dignity, with staff specially trained in memory support and compassionate communication. Residents benefit from personalized care, daily routines that encourage familiarity, and programs that promote engagement and joy. Memory Care is more than assistance – it’s a specialized approach that helps each individual live with purpose, comfort, and respect.
What is Respite Care?
At Gold Coast Senior Options, we know that caregiving is both rewarding and demanding. Respite Care offers short-term relief for family caregivers by providing temporary stays in a supportive, professional environment. During a respite stay, seniors receive the same attentive care and access to amenities as long-term residents – including assistance with daily needs, nutritious meals, and opportunities for social engagement. Whether for a few days or a few weeks, Respite Care ensures loved ones are safe, comfortable, and cared for while their families take time to rest, travel, or recharge.
What is Home Care?
At Gold Coast Senior Options, we work closely with trusted Home Care Agencies to help seniors maintain their independence in the comfort of their own homes. Home Care provides non-medical support tailored to each person’s needs – from help with meals, bathing, and dressing to companionship, medication reminders, and transportation. It’s a flexible option for families who want to ensure their loved ones are safe and supported while continuing to enjoy familiar surroundings and routines.
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