We recently had to find a board and care home in the east bay for my Uncle. We were overwhelmed by the process and emotionally drained. Then we were referred to Exceptional Senior Placement Services and met David Cohen. He is amazing. He was professional, compassionate and most of all he listened to us when we told him what was important to our family. He found the perfect location for my uncle. David communicated to us throughout the time it took to get my uncle settled. David followEd up to make sure all was well afterwards. Our family was so very grateful to David and glad we were referred to this company. read more

In mid-2022 it became apparent that it was time to start thinking about a new home for my husband. His physical condition was deteriorating due to a neurological disease. Where to start our search? Yelp reviews led me to ESP and the owner, David. At the time, I was very stressed. Between daily visits to my husband in the skilled nursing facility where he ended up after breaking his hip and trying to imagine a realistic solution, I needed help. David from the very first phone call was reassuring and supportive. He asked great questions to gain an understanding of our needs. He understood that the very idea of my husband moving to assisted living was wrenching for both of us. David came up with several recommendations. He created a comprehensive list showing the benefits and disadvantages of a number of nearby assisted living facilities. He kept in mind that it was important to remain in our city. Ultimately, he made appointments for me at two places in Concord. Oakmont at Montecito was right down the street from our present home. To my delight, I learned that I would be able to live there with my husband in a two or three bedroom apartment. We could stay in our neighborhood! And be close to many long-time friends. David helped me figure out the timing to get on the waiting list and then followed up with me as my husband progressed with rehab. Ultimately, my husband surprised everyone and aced the stairway climbing exercises so he was able to return home. We still planned to move to the assisted living facility, but as we had selected one of the largest types of apartments, we knew it would be a wait. Sadly, my husband passed away the week before I was to take him on a tour of the facility. One of the most heartbreaking things to me about his death, was that he was so excited about moving to Montecito with me. David had helped me find what I knew and my husband believed would be a perfect home. David was very kind after my husband's death and encouraged me to think about my own needs. I am in good health, so I don't anticipate a move to assisted living for many years, but I have given David's info to my family in case I need a nudge to make a change. I would 100% recommend Exceptional Senior Placement Services for anyone looking for professional and compassionate assistance in finding a home for older family members. read more

If I could give them 10 stars, I would! My husband and I were looking to move my mother-in-law from Virginia to an Assisted Living Facility in California. We had no clue where to even start - and then I came across Exceptional Senior Placement Services on Yelp. A true GIFT. I called immediately and David picked up. He asked me questions to gain an understanding of the situation. He was very helpful in explaining the process of moving an elder into an AL facility specific to California. He answered all of the questions I had. We exchanged emails after that and his amazing wife, Rachel, stepped in to help get us a list of wonderful assisted living facilities in the areas we were looking. Every time I had a question, a rambled thought, or just needed insight or advice, I would reach out to them. They are SUPER responsive and thorough. The trust was immediately built as their warmth and knowledge come across in every interaction. They scheduled site tours for facilities that were within our specifications based on what my MIL wanted and needs. I felt an instant connection with them from day one and would HIGHLY recommend their services to everyone. We've had to postpone my mother-in-law's move to California for the time being, however, as soon as we're closer to the move date I will most definitely be reaching out to Rachel and David for their further guidance and expertise. Words can't express our gratitude for your help! Something as personal as this really could not be handled by a better-suited team of kind, professional, personable, knowledgeable and responsive individuals. read more

I can't say enough about Mona. Her patience, thoughfulness, understanding, and soothing manner all won the day. My 72 year old Dad is not your average bear - an eccentric fellow with serious hippie tendencies and a life that had gone from robust and wide to small, cluttered, confused, and taken advantage of by predators. It all ended one day with a flood, and that was the catalyst for our work with Mona. Mona arranged tours for my father at several places in the east bay and we found a great fit. Dad will be moving in in the next couple of weeks and many of the worries and midnight demons that have plagued me for the last year will be over. THANK YOU, Mona, for treating my Dad with decency and compassion and me with patience and grace. You are a lifesaver and a star. FIVE STARS, and I'd gve more if I could. read more

FABULOUS! FABULOUS! FABULOUS! Mona is absolutely amazing at what she does which is: a) Help clarify and understand the needs of your senior b) Provide guidance on the best locations to meet your needs, price, amenities required, etc. c) Facilitate dialogues/negotiations with the providers d) Keep you calm and focused during what can be an incredibly emotionally and financially burdensome process I truly could not have found the fantastic facility I did without her assistance. She is a Godsend. read more

I wholeheartedly recommend Mona Lalchandani at Exceptional Senior Placement! She was tremendously helpful to us in finding a residence for my father. Not only is she knowledgeable about all types of Bay Area senior living options, she listened to what we said about what he needed to match his personality and finances, and she went around with us to various places, guiding us with questions, and providing enormous emotional and practical support. [Most important: she is local! My strong advice: don't start clicking places on the internet; you may inadvertently end up in a relationship with a placement organization halfway across the country that will aggressively pursue you. I believe they get large amounts of money if you've clicked, then spoken to them once, then chosen a place they mentioned.] Mona is "down to earth" -- very easy to talk to. Also, she understands what it's like to be experiencing a family crisis with time being crucial in terms of finding a place. (For us it was my dad going to the ER, then a SNF, then suddenly being told we had 48 hours to find him an Assisted Living place because he had " plateaued out" with his care.) I'm at the age where many of my friends will be helping their folks find an easier place to live--either by choice or necessity. I'm sharing Mona's name with everyone. read more

I needed placement for my cousin who has early dementia. I went back and forth trying to decide between in home care and a board and care. But from the moment I contacted Exceptional Senior Placement and spoke to David I felt relieved. I said that every time I talked to him I felt less stressed. David was knowledgeable about both types of care, the pros and cons of each and the cost consideration. I eventually settled on a lovely board and care where my cousin could have her small dog with her. The board and care was recommended and shown to me by David and it is working out so well. I do not live in the East Bay so I don't know what I would have done if it weren't for this company and their knowledge of senior placement. Thank you so much David! read more

Mona Lalchandani was a complete lifesaver for our family. Our mother who had been in assisted living for 4 years was not getting the care she needed with her advanced disability of Congestive Heart Failure and shorty term memory issues. During a stay at Piedmont Gardens nursing facility Mona was highly recommended by their staff. We did not know where to turn. Mona to the rescue! Everything she said she would do, she did immediately. She had a phone interview with me for over an hour. She lined up two amazing places for us to tour. The first place we went was perfect and our mother has been living there for two months now and is getting the best care ever. Mona knows her stuff. She's open and caring and just seems to know immediately what situation will work for your senior. I cannot believe the peace of mind I have now and how happy my mom is every time I see her. We could not have done this without her. It's been said in other reviews and it's true, Mona is a Godsend. read more

Mona is an amazing and resourceful senior placement expert. She is responsive, knowledgeable, experienced, efficient, and helpful. Our problem: My mom needed a care home, and quickly. Due to a stroke, she needed 24-7 care (mostly for memory related problems). The solution: I e-mailed Mona the details of what I was looking for, and after a brief call, I had appointments at different care homes the very next day. I really liked one of them, and she helped arrange for Mom to stay there. The BIG test: When I brought my mom to the care home, I was nervous at how Mom would react. But my mom really liked the home, the caregivers, and the other people in the home. I knew we were in good hands when while I was doing paperwork with the administrator, I peeked into the kitchen and saw my mom talking with one of the other pleasant residents, and later saw her seated at the table happily eating a delicious dinner. Both of us were relieved and very thankful that Mona helped us find such a great place. How we found Mona: She came highly recommended by someone I knew at the Elder Care Services Program at UC Berkeley. Our prior experience with Mona: I first consulted with Mona a number of years ago. She was patient, and coordinated showings of multiple large care facilities in the Bay Area. At the time, we did not end up signing up for a facility due to my mom's young age, and preference to try to stay at home for as long as she could. But, we were thankful for the time she spent to show us around and educate us on our options, without any pressure. She impressed us with her organization, knowledge, and expertise. When circumstances changed, and we needed to find a new place for mom, we contacted her for help again. The bottom line: Mona saved us time, helped us quickly, and shared her years of experience in senior placement so we could make the best informed choice we could for a place for Mom. We are grateful. Thanks Mona! read more

Susan at E Senior Placement is truly exceptional. She has spent hours on the phone with me helping me build my understanding of our local facilities as well as arranged and accompanied us on 5 tours! She is incredibly knowledgeable and has great relationships in the area. We are looking to move my grandma from a not-so-great facility out of state to be closer to us in CA and Susan has been phenomenal. I highly recommend! read more

Mona Lalchandani truly does provide an absolutely exceptional (and free) service. It is an emotionally grueling process finding the right place for your loved one and Mona makes it not just bearable, but enjoyable. Mona is extremely knowledgeable about the quality of care and services that the local facilities provide and she will pass that valuable information on to you. Mona is tireless while caring for her clients and is an absolute pleasure to work with. You will be extremely happy that chose her to help you navigate through the challenging world of finding the right place for your family member. Thank you Mona! read more

Update to my previous review. We've been working with David for a year and a half now. While my parents ultimately chose something other than Senior Housing at this time, David still continues to check up on us and inquire. I feel that he uses the "what is best for the family" approach and guiding principle and this always comes across when we speak. I feel that his first priority is how the family is doing and what he can do to support us vs. just finding a place for us. That he truly cares. This has made for an amazing relationship and someone that when you see their name pop up on your phone you get a warm feeling. Could not recommend him any higher he goes above and beyond. read more

I've never written a review on Yelp before but David more than deserves the first one. Caring for a loved one with dementia is so taxing that you hardly have time to think, eat, or breathe. You lose sleep, hair, and probably years of your life just trying to get through the day. The last thing you have time for is planning for the long-term future of your loved one, let alone putting any plans into action. David compassionately and carefully listened to our circumstances and helped find an AMAZING care home for my mother. When I say AMAZING, I mean it. It's truly a home and she is safe and comfortable in a facility that I'm confident I never would have found on my own. It was a dream come true, and it was all due to his efforts and the tremendous outfit he has put together here. Have no doubts. Call David. He is the man. read more

I am extremely appreciative of David and Rachel. They are kind, professional, caring, responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely care about their clients. Thank you both for all your care and hard work. You are a pleasure to work with and truly make a difference in people's lives. read more

David is the BEST! I live in Honolulu and needed to find a memory care facility for my mother in the East Bay. I was so confused and overwhelmed but David stepped in and everything made sense. David worked with me via phone and email to help me find a great place for her. We talked about my mom and her needs and he offered several suggestions and even made appointments for me when I was in town. I had several rough days and David was able to offer wonderful guidance and calm my frazzled nerves. If you are looking to place a loved one in assisted living give David a call. He will make it all so much easier for you and your family. read more

We chose Exceptional Senior Placement Services for their depth of knowledge of all senior care facilities in the Bay Area. Our friend needed a memory care at a beautiful nearby facility for an affordable cost, and Johnell came up with the best fit unique for his financial, social, and medical needs! We literally could NOT have found this perfect and safe facility without Johnell! And she was always there for us, answering our urgent and complicated questions and cheering us on especially during this difficult period of COVID 19. Now our friend is happily living still his best life in a memory care facility nearby where we can see him at a cost that is affordable for years to come. THANK YOU ESP!!! read more

I consider Exceptional Senior Placement my guardian angels. During a very difficult time for my family, Suzie and David helped me navigate, what can be, such a confusing and overwhelming process. They found a perfect place for my mom and made the entire transition a smooth one for us all. It is so comforting to know there are people out there to help when you need it the most. I am forever grateful. read more

I second the reviewer who said they would give Exceptional Senior Placement Services 100 stars! Johnell expertly guided me through care options for a parent. She was extremely professional, knowledgable, and generous with her advice - across physician, in-home, and residential options. She took me to see several places, ultimately helping us find a wonderful option. This is a special organization filled with special people, and I'm forever grateful. read more

Rachel worked tirelessly to help find an assisted living home for my elderly mom with dementia. We had many criteria, but she was always responsive and patient with us. I can't thank you enough for your assistance. I highly recommend their services. read more

ESP is an excellent elderly care referral agency. I think they are very lucky to have Johnell to be part of their team. She is not only beautiful, but also very efficient, knowledgeable, reliable and most of all, she is very compassionate and loves what she is doing, that is to help people to find the right place for their love one. When I called her I was desperately needed a place for my husband because the present facility wasn't working out. Johnell was suppose to leave the next day for her vacation, but she still took the time to call me back with a lot of advise and email me a list of the facilities that is more capable to handle my husband's condition. It was very valuable to me, because now my husband is in a much better place and settling in slowly. I am very grateful to be able to have some time to recover my own ordeal due to the stress that I was going through to deal with my husband's situation. I wish there are more agencies can have someone like Johnell who truly care about others when they are in need. read more

These folks lived up to their company name "Exceptional Senior Placement Services"! My husband and I live in Hawaii and we needed assistance to relocate his mother from a senior living facility in Washington State to California. My mother-in-law had very specific requests and we had a group of 4 family members involved in helping with the relocation process. None of us had experience in the arena. As soon as we contacted David, he jumped right in to help coordinate our group. One of my mother-in-laws requests was to have her moved into her new place by the end of September, which only have us about a month and a half. David found locations that best fit my mother-in-laws requests.... at times the requested changed daily... but David was patient and accommodating. David even helped us find people to unload and unpack her belongings. His follow-up and response times were amazing. I am happy to say, that we moved her into her new place in Livermore, CA this past weekend... as scheduled... the 3rd week of September. We are all very happy with her new living facility. I highly recommend Exceptional Senior Placement Services!! read more

We worked with Johnell Davidson at this service for a number of months, first looking for respite care for my husband, who has Parkinson's and now dementia. By the beginning of this year, it was clear to me and our children that it wasn't safe for him or me to care for him full time at home. Johnell helped us determine the best residential care options for him here in San Francisco, visited them with us, and helped us sort through our complicated feelings about moving him, and come to a decision. Since then, she's kept in touch to see how both my husband and I are doing. Great service! read more

I do not know how my family would have moved my father on such short notice without Mona's help! I do know that Dad wouldn't have ended up at such a wonderful place and we would have hit many more obstacles along the way without her. Thank you Mona! read more

I worked with Rachel. She is just the loveliest and most understanding young women. She helped me to navigate the difficult world of senior placement for a person with Alzheimer's and she was amazing.Rachel showed genuine empathy for our situation and showed me what was available for my 88 year old mother. Her help raised my knowledge levels and lessened my stress so that I could make the right decisions for my mom. I highly recommend the service. There are many different places and they all look fairly similar, but Rachel knows the inside information and will help you negotiate the best one for your families needs. read more

David at Exceptional Senior Placement Services was incredibly helpful in finding the right home for my mother. When her care needs increased, it was time for her to move to a more supportive community. We were not looking for a renovated building with a sports bar and Tuesday Taco Night (though that would have been great for her 10 years ago). We were looking for a reliable facility that would lovingly and consistently care for my mothers complex needs including advanced mental and physical challenges. David asked the right questions and quickly understood what our family was searching for. David's written description of various homes in Northern Marin County helped refine our list of places to tour and we ended up choosing the facility that initially resonated most from his accurate description. He was thoughtful and thorough and even meet with my family via zoom to answer any questions. He vetted facilities, organized tours and once we made a decision, negotiated details of our move in. Thank you David! read more

I had never heard of aa senior placement service but had become desperate as to what to do for my mother. In my first call with David, I realized I aaa talking to a compassionate person who truly could and wanted to help me. In a very short amount t of time, I had a solution, ultimately with the additional help of Johnell. I, who never ever thought to place my mother in a care facility, now had a home for my mother and I could take confidence in my choice. I wish I had acted sooner. I urge anyone struggling with this very serious and personal matter to rest assured that peoole like me have had a superb experience and that this is an organization you can trust. read more

I used Exceptional Placement Services at a very difficult time in my life. I had had a stroke two months earlier and had to find an assisted living facility in the peninsula, on very short notice. David provided extraordinary service under very difficult circumstances. I ended up in a wonderful assisted living facility, thanks to his help. David was very thorough in assessing my needs and matching them with different facilities. He made every step of the process easy. It is clear that his work is guided by a sense of compassion and care. I would recommend his service without reservations. read more

The Cohens came highly recommended to me and Rachel seemed very capable and compassionate during a phone call. Unfortunately that was the last I heard from her despite a follow up email and phone call on my part. (2 others I know of also did not hear back when they made initial inquiries.) read more

I would give Mona ten stars if I could. She helped us find a room and board place for my mom when we felt truly helpless. She will talk with you and understand your unique situation, coming back with a few options that will be in your range for you to consider. I recommend her to anyone in the Bay Area needing help for memory care options for their loved one. read more

Mona is an angel! Before I met Mona, I did't know where to turn. I have never been in this situation before, and I didn't know anyone who had good advice. People I knew had either handled their family planning differently, or they had never been in need of having their parent placed in a care facility. Everywhere I turned, everyone I asked, no one knew where I could go for help. My Mom had limited resources, and unfortunately my Mom and Dad did not plan properly for their senior years. Then, someone told me to write this number down. They said call Mona at Exceptional Placement. She will help you. You won't be disappointed. Well, I had heard similar things before that turned out not so helpful. I kept Mona's number for about two weeks before I finally decided to call. I thought what have I got to lose. I didn't get a voicemail, or routed around in a phone tree, or left on terminal hold, I didn't even get a secretary. Mona answered. I could tell she was very busy, most likely catching her with a family in route to a facility. I later learned, as I spent more time with her, Mona never stops. She is working constantly. She worries about every family she helps, as she tries her best to match our Mom's and Dad's with the appropriate facility. Mona took my information, and we had a short, but detailed conversation giving her a short summary of my Mom's situation. Then she promised she would give me a call the next day, and reassured me that she would help my Mom. She seemed to understand everything that I told her. Mona was so hands on, and always a telephone call or a text away. She really put my mind at ease. I got a sense that I just met a living angel. And, I felt confident that she would help my Mom, not just someone telling me what I want to hear, only to put me off like so many people I had met before her. Mona walked me through the entire process. She was very professional, and explained things so that I had a complete understanding of everything that was happening. She met with me right away and got the ball rolling. I depended on her so much, but you won't hear Mona complain. She loves what she does! Mona says, "It's my life's work". She believes in her heart that this is what she is on this planet for...to help families (some are in real crisis) to find the best care facility/home that is the best fit for Mom or Dad (or family member), within the person's means financially. Mona found the best place for my Mom. Before all this began, I worried about my Mom adjusting to such a dramatic change. But, Mona did such an outstanding job matching Mom with the right facility, Mom moved in with confidence, she is safe (most importantly), and continues to thrive. She is more active than she's been in recent years, and she really likes the staff at the facility. Mona took the time to pay attention to every area of my Mom's needs so that nothing was missed. I know, what does all this special attention cost? Nothing. Mona takes no money from families. She is there to hold your hand through the entire process, and then some. I owe Mona the moon and stars for taking the care that was needed to properly place my Mom in the most appropriate facility. My family and I will be eternally grateful to Mona for her expertise, her endless resources, and her enormous heart. read more

Time spent with Mona is not only enriching but productive. Rather than spending hours upon hours researching facilities, spending time on the phone learning about/with them and need I really go on ... spend it with Mona. She will cut your time drastically, give you your best options, negotiate with the facilities to find the best option within your price point and do so with her lovely and loving persona. She was so helpful when I wanted to bring my Dad up from San Diego. I searched everywhere and even spent a weekend in Modesto and Sacramento looking for affordable facilities. Mona is the real deal and a genuine sweetheart. We are so happy to have her on our team. read more

Mona was an angel from heaven during a stressful and trying time. She was referred by a friend and magically swooped in and took care of everything. Literally, we went from having no place for my parents to go after being released from the hospital to having a beautiful place secured for us. We didn't have to do anything -- Mona took care of everything. It's stressful enough dealing with the health of ones parents, let alone finding a place to take care of them. This was all new territory for me -- I knew nothing about assisted living, costs, locations, amenities etc. so was a bit like a deer caught in a headlight. Mona lifted the burden -- I can't say enough good things. She's well connected and it really helps to have someone with their fingers on the pulse of the elder care community because she makes magic happen. read more

I have been working with Mona Lalchandani for years. Her company helps seniors find facilities that meet their needs. She does not charge seniors or their families for this service. When someone calls here (often in crisis), she knows just what to do. Her clients can be assured that they are getting the best possible placement for their needs, Once a friend of mine was distraught because her mother was coming home from the hospital with many problems that she was not equipped to handle. Mona was at a dinner party when she called, but spoke to my friend and obtained the information she needed to get her mom an immediate placement. Mona is so astute and knowledgeable about all of the retirement communities and board and care homes in our area. I could not recommend her more highly. read more

Mona is a Lifesaver! Anyone facing the "facility" placement of a family member MUST use Mona. She knows the ins and outs of the local facilities, and is a trusted specialist with the various facilities. I have had to move a family member 3 times, and each time, Mona is right on the job to screen the issues and have a variety of choices. She works very hard, is open and honest, is a good listener and genuinely cares about her "clients." Mona takes a lot of the worry off of you and is truly a kind and caring individual. She definately provides "exceptional" services, but you also feel like she is watching out for you personally. She is a true Saint. I am very grateful for her patience, understanding, listening and help. read more

My Dad and I were completely overwhelmed trying to find a long term care placement for my one hundred year old grandmother. After a visit to the hospital for a fall, we worked with an onsite social worker to find her a care facility. It was a small residential care home that was a terrible fit. For three months they called us almost every day with some issue, needing us to calm my grandmother down via facetime because she was so unhappy being there. It got to the point they asked her to leave. After getting her home and realizing that she still wasn't capable of taking care of herself, I took to researching local facilities, but there were SO many options. We were completely overwhelmed! After a particularly grueling day of taking care of my grandmother and trying to work my way through my mountain of a to-do list at the same time, I logged onto yelp in desperation. Due to a high rating, I was immediately drawn to Exceptional Senior Placement Services and decided to leave them a message. Rachel called me back a short time later, and we had a fantastic conversation. She immediately put my mind at ease! In less than twenty-four hours she sent me a list of possible placement options, with explanations why they would be a good fit for my grandmother. She walked us through the whole process, and even came with us to tour the first and only facility we needed to take a look at before deciding it was a good match. My grandmother put up a real fight about being moved into a care home, but after moving in, she's really happy there (which if you knew her, you would understand what a miracle that is!) and doing great! Our stress level has gone way, way down, and all of this is thanks to Rachel and Exceptional Senior Placement. I would recommend them to everybody! read more

Spoke with David - he was great - definitely knowledgeable and didn't waste my time. He understood what I was looking for and gave 2 ideas without even blinking an eye. They get paid by the facility so their consultation is free. STRONGLY recommend giving them a call. He is going to send me an email with additional options - I am so glad I called! read more

Mona was my ANGEL!!! Father needed immediate assisted care in a home and after searching sites I found the process overwhelming, stressful and emotional. Mona took all that away by steering me in the right direction, making phone calls, etc. She is truly amazing at what she does!!! Followed up with me every single day!! Caring, supportive, calming and focused on getting what my father needed. Never met her but I feel as if I have known her for years! Blessings to this wonderful woman... read more

I have had such positive experiences with Mona that I recently referred a good friend of mine. She personally recommended and toured facilities with him so that he could make the best decision not only for the short term, but the long term as well. I would recommend Mona for her knowledge, expertise, and negotiation strengths which are greatly needed within the aging population. You can't go wrong with Mona. read more

My sisters and I have had to deal with having to move our mother as well as our aunt out of their homes because they needed care and support. Not knowing where to even begin, we were referred to Mona for assistance in resolving our placement dilemma. She was absolutely amazing and knew exactly how to guide us in our decisions. She gave us a variety of choices based on their particular needs and our criteria in terms of geographic location. Mona was with us every step of the way and helped us to find an outstanding assisted living facility for both of them. She is well-respected in the community and her years of experience make her an excellent resource. I can't imagine not having someone like Mona to turn to for placement assistance. We will be forever thankful for meeting her! read more

I cannot recommend Mona Lalchandani enough. I don't know what I would have done without her help when I needed to find an assisted living placement for my mother in a very tight time frame. Mona was supportive, patient, and most importantly, extremely knowledgeable about the options available in the area. She found a wonderful place for my mother in just a couple of days that has turned out to be an absolutely perfect fit for her needs and our budget. Mona was very attentive and responsive throughout the process and even called to follow-up with me once my mother was placed to make sure everything had worked out well. read more