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Home care in San Mateo, CA that leads with the heart.


Helping older adults live the life they love in the place they call home.

I'm interested in home care services for:

4.8 star rating on Google (23 reviews)
(650) 522-8009
A Home Instead Care Pro with an adult.

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Why we’re the most trusted home care service in San Mateo, CA:

We’ve been caring for San Mateo, CA for years, providing trusted senior in-home care to the local community. Many Home Instead clients begin receiving support within 48 hours and choose to stay with us long-term—a reflection of the relationships and confidence we build with those we serve.

Here’s why so many families choose us:


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    Skilled & Trusted Caregivers

    We handpick every Care Pro for their skills, compassion, and professionalism—each one thoroughly vetted, trained, and ready to deliver exceptional care.

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    Flexible & Consistent Care

    Need help during the day? Overnight care? Weekend coverage? We offer flexible options, on-time visits, and reliable care from Care Pros you know and trust.

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    Matches Made to Last

    Because strong relationships lead to better care, we take time to find a Care Pro who’s the right fit—not just for the job, but for the person.

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    Proven Expertise

    Behind every Care Pro is a team of experienced home care advisors, gerontologists, and specialists working to ensure you receive care that’s thoughtful, informed, and personal.

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    Customized Care Plans

    Care isn’t one-size-fits-all. We partner with you to create a personalized care plan that grows and adapts as your needs change.

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    Unmatched Experience

    Founded in 1994, Home Instead has helped older adults around the world age safely and with dignity at home, using a time-tested approach built on connection and compassion.

Read our local Google reviews

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Nicole B.

3 weeks

Doris provided extraordinary attentive care to my dad in his last 10 months of life. In his own words a few months ago: My name is Jordan Bloom. I am 81 and a former attorney. After the passing of my wife in January, I ended up in the hospital and was given 4 days to live! After being sent home under hospice care, I was introduced to care givers from Home Instead, who initially provided me with 24 hour a day care. As I started to notice a significant improvement, one of the caregivers, Doris Ballesteros stayed for 48 hours a week. Her actual caregiving, including cooking, cleaning, gardening, gardening,etc.) was in large part what contributed to my improvement physically and as importantly emotionally. Her wonderful sense of humor and positive attitude are in large part why I'm here today. Even though I have mostly recovered from my physical ailments her continued presence for 16 hours a day for 2 days a week has been of significant value to me personally and emotionally. That is why I elected to retain her services. I wish to commend Home Instead, San Mateo branch, for their wisdom in referring Doris to me. I unequivocally recommend her to anyone seeking caregiving services! Doris was dedicated, calm and deeply caring as Dad’s health declined and with hospice involvement in the end. She worked and communicated well with family and care teams. Our family is extremely grateful.

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Tom B.

3 weeks

Leslie And Ivania are my two caregivers they are always on time and actually work together to take care of me Ivania cooks me breakfast she do my favorite egg and Leslie does the driven me to shopping and appointment and also both take care of my plants and with Ivania I also go walk around the neighborhood with me !!🤗🙂↕️🤠

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Lin Z.

1 month

We had a difficult time finding care for my parents. Seems like some of these services the care giver don't really want to help. We had one from another company take a nap and then get ready to go out on the town during the time she was with my parents. But, Home Instead was different. The caregivers were attentive, friendly, supportive; my parents felt cared for. In particular they really liked, Crisanta, the last one they had from Home Instead. It was helpful to me as well because I could rest assure that they were in good hands. I highly recommend Home Instead.

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Jeff Z.

7 months

We used Home Instead for six years and were very happy with their people

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David B.

12 months

Home Instead provided several extremely kind and professional caregivers for my mother in her final months: Kelly, Penny, Leda, Jane, Orpha, Fely, Rowena, and Fei all did what they could to make my mother safe and comfortable, helping her do the things she could no longer do for herself. She would not have survived as long as she did without them.

Trusted help for everyday needs.


We know it’s the little things that often make life easier. That’s why our approach to senior care includes help with daily tasks and routines, like cooking meals, shopping, and even folding laundry.


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    Light Housekeeping & Meal Prep

    We help with household tasks like laundry, vacuuming, and meal preparation to ensure a clean, safe, and nurturing environment.

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    Errands & Appointments

    Have an appointment, or need groceries from the local store? We offer safe accompaniment to just about anywhere around town.

Helpful FAQs

If you're wondering whether it's time to get a little extra help at home, you're not alone. We talk with families across San Mateo every week who are asking the same question. Sometimes the signs are subtle—a few missed medications, more isolation, or a change in hygiene. Other times, it's a sudden shift after an illness or hospital stay.

At Home Instead, we've helped families recognize those signs and build a care plan that supports independence—not takes it away.

Here are some common signs it might be time to consider in-home care:

  • Missed medications, meals, or appointments
  • Challenges with bathing, dressing, or mobility
  • Increased forgetfulness or signs of memory loss
  • Withdrawal from social activities
  • Stacks of unopened mail or unpaid bills
  • Family caregiver stress or burnout


The good news? Help doesn't have to mean moving out. Our Care Pros help older adults stay safe and supported right in their own homes.

Want help starting the conversation? Download our What's Next Toolkit for tips, checklists, and conversation starters that make these discussions easier.

Still unsure? A care consultation is a great place to start. We'll listen, answer your questions, and help you explore your options—with no pressure or obligation.

If you're doing your best to support a loved one at home, it's normal to wonder if bringing in help means giving something up. But in our experience working with families in the San Mateo area since 1996, we've seen the opposite: in-home care can help you get back what matters most—quality time, peace of mind, and space to breathe.

Here's when home care might be the right step:

  • You're juggling caregiving with work, family, and your own well-being
  • Your loved one's needs are growing beyond what you can manage alone
  • You're noticing signs of burnout, frustration, or fatigue
  • You want a consistent, trusted partner to rely on

Home Instead Care Pros provide support that fits your routine—not the other way around. Whether it's meal prep, a walk, or help getting to appointments, our care is designed to enhance—not replace—your role.

You don't have to wait for a crisis. Most families who start care with us say they wish they had done it sooner.

There's no one-size-fits-all answer—but if your loved one wants to stay in their own home, in-home care can be the most personal, flexible, and reassuring option.

In San Mateo, staying home isn't just about comfort—it's about staying connected to what matters.


In-home care vs. assisted living

Assisted living can be great for those who want a communal setting and are ready to relocate. But if your loved one wants to stay at home, in-home care offers:

  • One-on-one attention in familiar surroundings
  • A flexible schedule that fits your lifestyle
  • Support with meals, mobility, personal care, and companionship
  • Help from Care Pros who get to know your loved one—building trust and routine


In-home care vs. hiring a private caregiver

Hiring an independent caregiver can seem less expensive—but it comes with risk. As the employer, you'd be responsible for payroll, insurance, and coverage when they can't show up.

With Home Instead, we handle everything:

  • Professional hiring, training, and supervision
  • Background checks, insurance, and 24/7 backup support
  • Personalized matches and no long-term contracts

We've delivered countless hours of care across San Mateo—and we're proud to offer a team you can count on.

In-home care is all about helping your loved one stay independent, comfortable, and safe—right in the place they know and love. From simple companionship to specialized dementia support, our Care Pros are here to help make life easier.



Here's how it works with Home Instead San Mateo:
  1. We start with a conversation. We'll meet with you in your home—and listen closely. What does your loved one need help with? What do they enjoy? What's most important to them? This free consultation helps us create a customized care plan.
  2. We build your care team. We'll match your loved one with a trained, compassionate Care Pro based on skills, schedule, and compatibility. Many of our Care Pros speak Spanish and bring years of experience supporting chronic conditions or memory care.
  3. We start care quickly. We can often begin care within 48 hours. Services may include bathing, dressing, transportation, meal prep, medication reminders, and more. We also offer 24-hour care, dementia support, and hospice assistance.
  4. We stay connected. Our San Mateo office is available 24/7 for support. Your dedicated Care Manager will stay in touch to make sure everything's working—and adjust care as needs change.

It's care on your terms. Ready to get started?

At Home Instead, we don't just send a caregiver—we introduce you to a Care Pro. It's a title we take seriously, because our team members bring more than just help—they bring heart, consistency, and respect for the life your loved one has built.



Here's what sets our San Mateo Care Pros apart:
  • They're trained and trustworthy. Each Care Pro goes through a thorough background check, drug screening, and extensive training—including how to support Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and chronic health conditions.
  • They're employees—not contractors. That means we handle taxes, scheduling, and supervision. We also provide liability insurance and workers' comp, so you're fully protected.
  • They're matched with care. We take time to match each Care Pro based on your loved one's personality, preferences, and needs. It's not just about filling a shift—it's about building a relationship.
  • They show up, and we've got your back. If your regular Care Pro can't make it, we'll send a qualified backup—no scrambling on your end. Our 24/7 support line means help is always a call away.

Whether it's help with a shower, a ride to your local medical center, or someone to listen to stories from the garden, our Care Pros are here to bring comfort, dignity, and connection. We’ve been caring for the community since 1996.

Serving San Mateo, CA and the surrounding area.



Since 1996, Home Instead has been part of the community, providing quick access to top-rated home care in San Mateo.

Proudly caring for communities near you:

Brisbane, Burlingame, Colma, Daly City, El Granada, Foster City, Half Moon Bay, Hillsborough, Millbrae, Montara, Moss Beach, Pacifica, San Bruno, San Francisco, San Mateo, South San Francisco

…to name a few.

Get started with the most trusted home care in San Mateo, CA



We're here to listen and guide you through every step of the decision-making process. Our San Mateo caregivers make everyday life easier, safer, and more enjoyable, helping with errands, appointments, and the activities your loved one has always treasured.

Staying connected to the San Mateo community

Caregivers can help older adults stay active in your area, whether that's spending time outdoors at nearby parks such as Central Park, or participating in local senior programs. They can also offer safe accompaniment to errands or medical appointments at local hospitals such as Mills-Peninsula Medical Center or Stanford Health Care.

Call Home Instead San Mateo at (650) 522-8009 or request a free consultation to begin creating a personalized care plan.
Woman assists another woman in a walker.