About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Nursing Homes in Madison, WI

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Called one of the most “quintessentially American” cities, Madison, Wisconsin, has so much to offer. Between its top-rated museums and art galleries, scenic lakefront views and activities, and historical attractions, Madison is rated the fifth-best city in the nation for the quality of life of senior residents. If you’re looking for quality nursing home care for your loved one, Madison is a great choice.

Typically, “nursing home” is used as a catch-all term to describe many different types of senior care and elderly living facilities. A nursing home refers to a facility providing patients with round-the-clock, hospital-like care to elderly patients.

While A Place for Mom doesn’t partner with any standalone skilled nursing homes, we do partner with assisted living and memory care facilities. Out of these partner communities, two assisted living facilities and three memory care facilities offer on-site skilled nursing care similar to what you might find in a standalone nursing home.

Both options provide on-site care and regular assistance with routine daily activities. In the case of memory care, residents receive specialized care for Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia.

A Place for Mom partners with 31 assisted living and memory care facilities within a 10-mile radius of central Madison. No matter what degree of care your loved one requires, our senior care facilities treat residents with personalized, top-shelf care that provides regular peace of mind. This guide will explore costs, payment options, care-type specifics, and other notable insights about senior living in Wisconsin’s capital city.

Nursing Homes Facilities near Madison, WI
Showing 65 communities
Last Updated: 4/24/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

Best Meals and Dining

Nutritious meals are one of the most important and valued benefits of senior living. Chefs and meal planners provide residents the right balance of vitamins and minerals – and so much more. The best make sure every dish is made with quality ingredients, tastes great and leaves diners excited for their next meal.

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Photo of Eden Vista Madison
77 Photos available
6.6
Review score
41 reviews
6.6
Review score
41 reviews
5 star
37%
4 star
36%
3 star
15%
2 star
5%
1 star
7%
See all reviews
The staff are very caring, and they work very well with our family. Our loved one has had a lot of issues, and they have kept the lines of communication very open. They work well to get her what she needs...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
We are continuing to Admit New Residents, where possible and appropriate, to help residents and families in need.We are offering Virtual Tours of our Community via Zoom, facetime, APFM community APP and Google Duo. If you're interested in learning more or want to get your Virtual tour set up let...
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Photo of Sage Meadow Middleton
1212 Photos available
1.5
Review score
47 reviews
1.5
Review score
47 reviews
5 star
38%
4 star
32%
3 star
17%
2 star
9%
1 star
4%
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The staff members are a 5 plus, they are so friendly and we are getting ready to move our loved one in and she is really looking forward to the arts and crafts. Before we even toured this community we wanted...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Sage Meadow Middleton offers quality care through our assisted living and memory care programs. This is a comfortable, relaxed community with a friendly atmosphere and dedicated, 24-hour staff. With the goal of nurturing mind, body, and spirit, Sage Meadow Living features both structure and...
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Photo of Oakwood Village University Woods
1616 Photos available
5 star
55%
4 star
19%
3 star
13%
2 star
0%
1 star
13%
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Oakwood is a lovely facility, has many amenities and services for all of their residents. We have also appreciated all of the social workers, therapists and caregivers as we have navigated the transition...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Oakwood Village University Woods is located on Madison's west side, set on 30 acres that include a nine-acre nature preserve. It is a part of Oakwood Lutheran Senior Ministries, a not-for-profit, Lutheran organization established in 1948. In addition to independent living, short-term rehab and...
Photo of Sylvan Crossings of Fitchburg
44 Photos available
2.1
Review score
28 reviews
2.1
Review score
28 reviews
5 star
36%
4 star
32%
3 star
14%
2 star
7%
1 star
11%
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The people are really nice at this community. The staff are helpful. Mom likes the food and activities they offer. The community is clean and well maintained inside and out. This community is just the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
For family members, watching a loved one cope with the effects of Alzheimer's or other dementias can be difficult. We want to help. We conduct one-on-one counseling for families, as well as offer family training on redirection of their loved one, and can offer additional resources such as...
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Photo of Sylvan Crossings in Westshire Village
66 Photos available
6.0
Review score
27 reviews
6.0
Review score
27 reviews
5 star
38%
4 star
26%
3 star
22%
2 star
7%
1 star
7%
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There have been a lot of issues finding and maintaining staff just like everywhere else right now. They do their very best - but it has been a struggle. They are having a hard time finding an activities...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
We see in each individual their grand potential to live a life of self-respect and integrity. In like manner we lessen your worry as we provide compassionate skilled care that brings a spirit of self-respect into the life of your loved one. We take our responsibilities seriously at Sylvan...
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Photo of Drumlin Reserve Memory Care
11 Photo available
1.0
Review score
5 reviews
1.0
Review score
5 reviews
5 star
20%
4 star
60%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
20%
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The main reason I chose this community for my loved one is she has her own spacious private bathroom with a walk in tub. The staff have done a great job at making sure my mother feels safe and comfortable in...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Aster Memory Care of Cottage is 24 room memory care community designed exclusively to serve the needs of individuals with memory impairment. Our goal, in everything we do, is to create an environment that feels safe and familiar, empowering and fulfilling. Every detail of the unique, single...
Photo of Cottages of Madison
77 Photos available
5 star
67%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
33%
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When we were looking for a new place to move my mom, cost was a factor. We really liked this community. Her apartment is in the remodeled wing and it is supposed to have extra staff available for the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Cottages of Madison, in operation for more than 20 years, offers CBRF-assisted living, licensed for Alzheimer’s, dementia and related neurological diagnoses.Our warm, welcoming, secure community has the perfect balance of private and public community living space, making it quaint, functional...
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Photo of Coventry Village
2020 Photos available
6.9
Review score
12 reviews
6.9
Review score
12 reviews
5 star
25%
4 star
17%
3 star
33%
2 star
8%
1 star
17%
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It was a vibrant and social community. A wide range of activities are provided. Some improvements that need to be done are new carpeting put in all found levels of apartments. New chairs are needed in the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to the award-winning Sebring Assisted Care and Sebring Gardens Memory Care Residences! Sebring Assisted Care Residence is an integral part of Coventry Village, Madison's premier west-side retirement community.Coventry Village is dedicated to enabling each resident to maximize their...
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Photo of Capitol Lakes Terraces
88 Photos available
1.0
Review score
2 reviews
1.0
Review score
2 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
50%
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The staff there at Capitol Lakes Terraces are super! They are very welcoming, very caring, and very well organized. Their staff is very well trained and they really care and do a great job. The only...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Capitol Lakes Terraces is an assisted living community located in the heart of the city of Madison, Dane County, Wisconsin. Surrounded on both the north and south by Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, respectively, residents of Capitol Lakes Terraces enjoy one of the best views in the city, no matter...
Photo of Chamomile Assisted Living II
66 Photos available
5 star
33%
4 star
0%
3 star
33%
2 star
0%
1 star
34%
See all reviews
The place is bright, clean and goo quality food and care. Meals are made from scratch not shipped in or reheated from a local service.
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Chamomile Assisted Living is an assisted living community located in the lovely and charming Madison, Wisconsin. The two different locations of this community provide you with choice and variety. The lovely private apartments are accommodating and spacious. You can enjoy the beautiful foliage and...
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Photo of Sylvan Crossings at Chapel Valley
22 Photos available
6.0
Review score
3 reviews
6.0
Review score
3 reviews
5 star
0%
4 star
33%
3 star
0%
2 star
67%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Sylvan Crossings had availability quickly when I was needing to move my loved one. The staff here is very good. They seem to handle his care well if not better than where he was at previously. I would...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
We see in each individual their grand potential to live a life of self-respect and integrity. We also strive to lessen your worry as we provide compassionate skilled care that brings a spirit of independence into the life of your loved one. Our priority is to provide the highest level of care...
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Photo of Waunakee Valley Senior Living
1212 Photos available
5 star
23%
4 star
23%
3 star
15%
2 star
0%
1 star
39%
See all reviews
There are multiple different things offered here like independent living, assisted living, higher levels of care and even a rehab unit and that was something we like. There are plenty of activities going on...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to Waunakee Manor, a Continuing Care Retirement Community serving the Greater Madison area since 1974. At Waunakee Manor, we strive to ensure that throughout all of life’s stages, we’ve got you covered. We offer senior living solutions across the Continuum of Care ranging from short term...
Photo of Oak Park Place Madison West Nakoma
33 Photos available
5.6
Review score
17 reviews
5.6
Review score
17 reviews
5 star
6%
4 star
12%
3 star
24%
2 star
6%
1 star
52%
See all reviews
What we like the most about the Oak Park Place is that it is very welcoming and the staff members are so friendly. My brother is very happy there. He is enjoying the community and other residents who live...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
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Photo of Sunny Hill Health Care Ctr
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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There have been changes to the staff but they have been for the better. The staff is very friendly, and do their best to provide for each of the clients different needs daily. The CNA's know each of the...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Walnut Grove North
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
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0%
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0%
1 star
0%
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The Arbors was a wonderful community. It was a very nice place. The staff here were very caring. I would highly recommend them. They have assisted living and memory care in the building next door too, so...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
8.0
Review score
1 review
8.0
Review score
1 review
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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We have been so impressed with Vista West Memory Care! The facility is beautiful (and only 2 years old), the caregivers are very friendly and helpful, and the food is great! Whenever I visit, there are...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
When living at home is no longer an option, it just means it's time for a different home. Vista West encourages residents to continue to live a meaningful life. Rest easy knowing your loved on is in a safe and secure environment, customized to meet the specific needs of those living with...
Photo of KindredHearts of Cottage Grove
5 star
33%
4 star
67%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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My mother in law was alright with it, but we never moved her stuff there because it didn't have a warm feeling and it was also harder for me to get to (I'm the primary care giver). I wasn't sold on it for...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
KindredHearts is built on more than 25 years of achieving excellence in meeting today's senior needs, and anticipating those of tomorrow. We are dedicated to meeting the diverse needs of today's elderly by offering assisted living, memory care and independent living in a personalized, home-like...
Photo of Saint Mary's Care Ctr
5 star
0%
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100%
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My mother is there and it's going well. It's skilled nursing there. I have an overall good opinion of them. They've changed their food system lately which is a lot better. I think they do a good job there...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Kindredhearts Of Cottage Grove
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My mother was there when she lived in Wisconsin it was good but it was like a 4 out of 5 compared to the place mother moved to in California. There were not nearly as many volunteers at Harbor House and the...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Oakwood Seasons €“ Oakwood East
5 star
0%
4 star
50%
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50%
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0%
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Madison Heights Senior Community
5 star
23%
4 star
23%
3 star
31%
2 star
14%
1 star
9%
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I really enjoy living at Madison Heights! The atmosphere and house is very comfortable. The staff is very nice, the other residents are great and I love the food! I would highly recommend it to others.
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Madison Heights Senior Community is a memory care home creatively designed to meet the challenges of Alzheimer's and other related dementia diagnosis in a residential setting. Our homes and staff help residents enjoy and savor their individuality,even as they and their loved ones cope with memory...
Photo of Four Winds Assisted Living
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Four Winds Assisted Living is an assisted living community that is located in a quiet residential neighborhood of Verona, WI. Verona is located just 10 miles outside of the downtown area of Madison, WI. You get the quiet neighborhood with the ease of being able to visit Madison if the need...
2.0
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5 reviews
2.0
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5 reviews
5 star
0%
4 star
20%
3 star
20%
2 star
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the love my life last months were spent at the villa at Middleton village. The care and love she was given were second to none. the facility is clean, modernized. [name removed] the daytime nurse a true...
Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
On behalf of our team of caregivers and support staff, thank you for considering our healthcare center. We offer a full range of medical services to meet the individual needs of our residents, including short-term rehabilitative services and long-term skilled care. Working with the resident's...
Photo of Madison Health and Rehabilitation Center
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Provides: Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Tennyson Senior Living
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.

What families are saying about nursing homes in Madison

Recent reviews for nursing homes in Madison

Charter Senior Living of Madison

4.0
I would say that my experience had been very good. Cedarhurst is the place I visited that was the best. I would recommend to others.

Brookdale Middleton Century Avenue

5.0
Thrilled with the care and attention my Mother received while at this Brookdale. It felt like I was pet of a family! The food is wonderful and I enjoyed that when visiting. They also have fun activities for residents and their family members. Thanks for all you did and I would highly suggest ...
Read more

Milestone Senior Living Stoughton

4.0
The staff that is there are wonderful, they have done a great job given the circumstances but there is a high turnover rate outside of the day to day staff. The director is trying her best, but communication with the staff and families has started to lack. The life enrichment coordinator is ...
Read more

Costs of nursing homes in the Madison area

Stays at senior living facilities vary based on what type of care patients require. The monthly median cost of a private room in a Madison nursing home was $9,551 in 2021.[02] This cost includes room and board, personal care assistance, medication administration and oversight, round-the-clock supervision, therapies and rehabilitation, and skilled nursing care.

According to our proprietary data, the median cost of a one-bedroom assisted living apartment in Madison communities that partner with A Place for Mom was $4,950. The median cost of a one-bedroom memory care apartment in a partnered Madison community is $6,877 a month.[03]

The total monthly cost for assisted living and memory care includes service fees and add-ons. With their investment, tenants can expect 24-hour security, customized care plans, room and board, meals prepared with dietary stipulations in mind, and more. In the case of memory care, services include specialized Alzheimer’s and dementia care.

Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Madison, WI vs. nearby cities

Madison, WI
$4,691/mo
$4,580/mo
$4,580/mo

Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Madison, WI vs. the state and national average

Madison, WI
$4,691/mo

Average monthly cost of Nursing Homes in Madison vs. other types of senior living

$4,640/mo
Nursing Homes
$4,691/mo

Median monthly costs of Nursing Homes in Madison, WI by room type

$6,400/mo
$5,512/mo
$5,293/mo
$5,654/mo

Average cost of Nursing Homes in Madison over time

Madison, WIWI stateNational

How people pay for a nursing home in Madison

If the prospect of paying for a senior living facility is a daunting one, rest assured that several options can help. Whether you’re going to a skilled nursing facility or require a less intensive level of care, such as assisted living or memory care, your loved one’s stay can be financed privately or federally through avenues like Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, Medicaid, or Medicare. In these tabs, we’ll explore how these payment strategies can apply.

Private pay methods in Madison

If you’re searching for the most red-tape-free way to pay for skilled nursing, assisted living, or memory care, look no further than your own accrued wealth. Whatever personal savings you or your loved ones might have on hand can apply to whatever care is needed. Now, what if that alone won’t make ends meet? Try leveraging other options like Social Security benefits and pensions or cashing in on side investments like a stock portfolio or real estate assets. You can even tap into long-term care insurance or life insurance to help make monthly payments. Some other common ways families pay for long-term care can include:

Caregiver Resources
Can You Use Your HSA for Long-Term Care Costs?
By Celia Searles
Caregiver Resources
Reverse Mortgages and Long-Term Care: The Pros and Cons
By Merritt Whitley, senior living writer and editor
VA benefits for nursing homes in Madison

With more than a quarter of the city’s veterans older than 75, it’s appropriate for Madison to have a strong support network for seniors who served their country at home or abroad. If your loved one is a veteran in need of senior living facility care, VA benefits can be a reliable resource.

Ask a local veterans services officer about the VA Aid & Attendance benefit.[05]. If qualified, an additional monthly amount will be added to their VA Pension.

Also, note that certain ailments suffered during combat might make additional benefits available to your loved one. Review the Presumptive Disability Benefits fact sheet to see if any of these criteria apply.[06]

Madison is host to multiple veterans services organizations (VSOs) and facilities that can help navigate some of these questions. The VFW Department of Wisconsin is a state-wide support system for veterans and can be especially helpful for those needing help financing their senior living facility stays. In Madison, connecting with the local VFW or American Legion branches can help point older veterans in the right direction.

9689

Number of veterans who live in Madison

About 26% percent of Madison veterans are 75+ as of 2021

Resources for Madison Veterans

VSOs and veteran resources in Madison

Dane County Veterans Service Office
1709 Aberg Ave., Suite 2
Madison, WI 53704
Phone: 608-266-4158
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Wisconsin
4622 Dutch Mill Road
Madison, WI 53716
Phone: 608-221-2576

Veterans of Foreign Wars Day Post 7591
301 Cottage Grove Road
Madison, WI 53716
Phone: 608-221-9326

Severson-Cairns American Legion Post 501
105 Dempsey Road
Madison, WI 53614
Phone: 608-244-7716

Madison Medicaid for nursing homes

Low monthly income should not preclude your loved one from affording a nursing home, assisted living, or memory care stay.

Wisconsin Medicaid is available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents living in Wisconsin who meet one of the following criteria:[07]

  • Be aged 65 or older
  • Have a disability
  • Have someone with a disability living in your home

The amount of support Medicaid can cover for your loved ones’ stay is dependent on the type of medical care needed.

Medicaid coverage for nursing homes

Wisconsin Medicaid will cover nursing home care at Medicaid-accredited facilities if a patient’s financial assets and income fall below a certain level and if a screening process determines they require skilled nursing-level care.

Should your loved one meet both criteria, they’ll receive the following coverage during their nursing home stay:{{citation:7}

  • Room and board
  • Medications
  • Medical care
  • Skilled nursing care
  • Therapy services

Those interested in applying for Wisconsin Medicaid can review the state’s eligibility handbook for application details.[08]

Medicaid coverage for assisted living and memory care

In Wisconsin, there is also a waiver called home and community-based services (HCBS), which keeps a waiting list of potential qualifiers and provides skilled nursing quality care at home or in an assisted living or memory care facility.[09] HCBS recipients must fall under certain financial thresholds and demonstrate a need for assistance with activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

Assisted living and memory care tenants can receive Medicaid coverage through HCBS waivers and apply that funding to help conduct ADLs and IADLs.

Though coverage depends on the facility chosen, Medicaid will typically help assisted living and memory care residents with the following:

  • ADLs
  • Medication oversight
  • Appointment transportation
  • Behavioral therapy
  • Other approved services

Additional resources

Those who are 65 and older can also tap into Wisconsin’s SeniorCare program to get help with prescription drug costs.

For help checking into which benefits your loved one might qualify for, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services offers assistance at the Job Center. The Ombudsman Program through the Board on Aging and Long-Term Care Local Area Agency on Aging are both ready to provide help, too.

Madison resident Medicaid resources

Local Medicaid services

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Job Center
1819 Aberg Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
Phone: 888-794-5556
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Board on Aging and Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
1402 Pankratz St., Suite 111
Madison, WI 53704
Phone: 800-815-0015

Dane County Area Agency on Aging
2865 N. Sherman Ave., Northside Town Center
Madison WI, 53704
Phone: 608-261-9930
Email: AAA@countyofdane.com
Office hours: Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Medicare nursing home coverage in Madison

Medicare is federal health care coverage available to people aged 65 and over, people under 65 receiving Social Security, or anyone at any age living with ALS or who has been diagnosed with end-stage renal failure.

While Medicare doesn’t cover skilled nursing custodial costs (e.g., room and board) or needs (i.e., dressing, bathing, eating, etc.), it could provide support for individuals with the following services in nursing facilities for up to 100 days:[10]

  • A semi-private room
  • Nutritional support and meals
  • Skilled nursing care
  • Physical therapy (if needed to meet their health goal)
  • Occupational therapy (if needed to meet their health goal)
  • Speech-language pathology services
  • Medical social services
  • Medications
  • Medical supplies and equipment used in the facility
  • Ambulance transportation (if it’s the safest option)

Part A

In addition, Medicare Part A is the equivalent of hospital insurance and will cover any skilled nursing facility needs deemed medically necessary. This coverage will kick in for a hospital-related medical condition. Medicare Part A will support your loved one’s care, but it will not pay for an assisted living facility stay or any assistance with ADLs during the stay. It won’t cover custodial care, but Part A will fund some skilled nursing needs for assisted living or memory care residents if done by a certified nurse or doctor in an assisted living or memory care facility.

Additional resources

Medicare’s different plans and specifications might seem overwhelming at first. Luckily, the Madison area has several resources that you can use to help your loved ones find coverage. Wisconsin’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) makes counselors available in person and on the phone for people needing information on the intricacies of Medicare and its programs. The program outlines examples of how it can support you and your loved one on its Counseling Success Stories page.

The Wisconsin Medicare Savings Program is a qualified beneficiary provider through Dane County, and SeniorCare focuses specifically on prescription medication needs. There are application forms available online to take advantage of this cost-savings program, details on how to apply can be found on the SeniorCare online application.

MyChoice Wisconsin sets members up with resources in their communities to find the best care at the most affordable rates. There’s also a Social Security office in Madison, as well as the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Dane County (ARDC), and the long-term care ombudsman through the Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long-Term Care.

No matter your situation, there’s someone in Madison ready to help you get the care your loved one needs.

Resources for Madison Medicare recipients

Medicare-related assistance offices

Madison Social Security Administration Office
6011 Odana Road
Madison, WI 53719
Phone: 866-770-2262
Fax: 833-950-3737
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Aging and Disability Resource Center of Dane County
2865 N Sherman Ave.
Madison, WI 53704
Phone: 608-240-7400
Fax: 608-240-7401
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:45 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Board on Aging and Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
1402 Pankratz St., Suite 111
Madison, WI 53704
Phone: 800-815-0015

Understand Wisconsin laws and regulations for nursing homes

The Wisconsin State Legislature defines nursing homes as places where five or more unrelated people live because they need some level of nursing care 24/7. These facilities have to follow a long list of regulations that govern everything from staff training requirements to care standards.

Here are some of the standards nursing homes must follow:

  • No nursing home in the state may operate without a licensed administrator.
  • Each nursing home will employ a charge nurse at all times who is a licensed, practicing nurse.
  • Staff-to-resident ratios are mandated to be 1:5 during waking hours, and 1:8 at night, providing at least one staff member awake and providing care at all times.[11]
  • Facilities must conduct background checks for employees and vendors who have any regular or direct content with patients or residents.[12]
  • Hours of care provided must meet specific requirements that depend on the level of care needed (not including feeding).
  • A registered nurse or licensed practical nurse must provide a portion of the skilled nursing care that the resident receives.

Both federal and state regulations govern nursing homes. To find out about any Madison nursing home’s compliance, take a look at the annual Consumer Information Reports compiled by the Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) to help consumers determine the quality of care at all nursing home facilities. You can also use this online provider search tool and filter the results by nursing homes. Or, you can reach out to the DQA’s Bureau of Nursing Home Resident Care Regional Office, which is responsible for licensure and inspection of nursing homes.

Laws and regulations for assisted living and memory care facilities

The DQA’s Bureau of Assisted Living is the branch in charge of licensure and inspection of assisted living and memory care facilities. Facilities are inspected at least once every two years to check for compliance with laws and regulations. To see how facilities fared, use the online provider search tool, or reach out to the DQA’s Bureau of Assisted Living Regional Offices.

Memory care is classified as a form of assisted living, and there are three distinct types of assisted living in Wisconsin:

  • Residential Care Apartment Complexes: This assisted living classification provides personal care, room and board, and up to 28 hours a week of supportive care and/or nursing. They must adhere to these rules and regulations.
  • Community-Based Residential Facilities: This type offers less nursing care (up to three hours per week), but still has support services and supervision along with room and board. Here are the rules and regulations that apply to these facilities.
  • Adult Family Homes: This falls in the middle when it comes to nursing care. Up to seven weekly hours can be provided in addition to room and board. Adult Family Homes are limited to a maximum of four residents. These communities also have several rules and regulations that govern this type of assisted living.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services lays out a comprehensive list of resources to help you find more information about each type.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services

1 W Wilson St.

Madison, WI 53703

Phone: 608-266-1865

Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Madison nursing homes

Madison does not have strict COVID-19 guidelines regarding tenants of nursing homes, memory care, and assisted living facilities in Madison. That said, the city does acknowledge CDC guidelines and takes every step to help ensure tenants and employees take the proper precautions.

Vaccinations. Patients and visitors are not required to be vaccinated.

Masking. Masking is encouraged but not required. Individuals are asked to assess their own personal care needs before choosing to wear a mask

Facility cleanliness. Staff members are asked to regularly disinfect themselves and common areas.

Get to know senior living in Madison

31Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.6/5.0 average in-network rating
30% of communities in market offer on-site physician or comparable
55% of communities offer reminiscence programs for memory care
61% of communities offer Hoyer lifts
100% of these Madison partner communities offer on-site activities
3463
Number of people we have referred in market in Madison in 2022
82
Average age of resident we have referred in Madison
Gender split: 60% female

What to expect from nursing homes in Madison

Madison is a beautiful town to settle down in; it’s got a small-town feel with big-city amenities. Considering that there are also 31 assisted living and memory care facilities partnered with A Place for Mom within a 10-mile radius of downtown Madison, there are many options for your loved one to find the perfect fit.[03]

A variety of perks for any senior

Madison’s senior living facilities offer a variety of activities and amenities to keep residents healthy and engaged:[03]

  • Private outdoor areas
  • A beauty salon so your loved one can look their best
  • Special dining programs
  • Live musical performances
  • A recreation room
  • Holiday parties and other communal celebrations

Residents have semi-private or private rooms with bathrooms attached. They have access to both indoor and outdoor common areas to mingle with their fellow residents and entertain guests.

Opportunities for continuity of care

The kind of care that your loved one might need can evolve over time, which is why there are a wide variety of partnered facilities in Madison that offer a combination of care types:[03]

  •  Fourteen facilities combine assisted living and memory care.
  •  Eight are standalone assisted living facilities.
  •  Two facilities combine assisted living and independent living.
  •  Four facilities combine assisted living, independent living, and memory care — a highly progressive layout.
  •  Two memory care-only facilities are nearby.
  • One group home in the area provides memory care.

Stand-alone memory care facilities

Within Madison, there are two standalone memory care facilities. Memory care communities are designed to care for and treat residents with memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, or other types of dementia. These facilities provide closer supervision for seniors and memory-focused therapy programs. Memory care facilities are often equipped with special security measures to keep your loved one safe and secure, regardless of circumstance. They also employ therapies to reduce confusion and agitation.

Assisted living and memory care

There are 14 partner facilities combining assisted living and memory care throughout Madison, making this the most available type of care. Residents can expect memory care treatment along with daily assistance on needs such as bathing, dressing, the administering of any prescription medications, and other services. Those who don’t need memory care will receive general assisted living services.

Combination of assisted living, independent living, and memory care facilities

Seen as a more modern form of care, these tiered care facilities have options for many seniors. These facilities are great for seniors who may not currently need care now but would like to age in place and want security knowing they can access care if they need to down the line. Senior tenants are all provided on-site housing and meals, with varying types of on-site amenities, and convenient services and care available as needed. If care needs change, a move to another facility won’t be necessary.

Explore senior care with confidence

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Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.

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See what you can afford.

Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.

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Find top facilities for you.

Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.

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Tour your favorite facilities.

Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.

Unfamiliar with Madison? Highlights for seniors

36721

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Madison as of 2021

13%

Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Madison population as of 2021

25775

Average annual Social Security income for Madison seniors 65 and older as of 2021

Health care for seniors in Madison

Madison residents can attend these two major health care providers for geriatric, general, and other necessary health needs that arise in addition to the VA hospital in Madison.

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University Hospital in Madison

SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, Madison is the No.2-ranked hospital in Madison and the sixth-best medical center in Wisconsin. The system performs highly in lung surgery, spinal fusions, stroke care, and other practices.

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SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Madison

SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital, Madison is the No.2-ranked hospital in Madison and the sixth-best medical center in Wisconsin. The system performs highly in lung surgery, spinal fusions, stroke care, and other practices.

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William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans’ Hospital

A national award for patient experience went to Madison’s VA hospital in 2022. The facility offers a wide variety of care including cancer treatments, cardiology, orthopedics, and more.

Transportation for seniors in Madison

The assisted living and memory care facilities we partner with offer transportation in different ways. Around 77% offer at-cost transportation options to residents, while over 41% provide complimentary rides. Keep in mind that some communities offer complimentary transportation for some excursions and at-cost transportation at other times. Transportation services for errands and appointments are a nice thing to offer, especially when considering how critical it is to keep elderly residents safe.

Dane County Department of Human Services offers individualized ride options. Those include Older Adult Transportation Assistance (OATA), which provides scheduled door-to-door service to seniors 60 and over, and the Retired Senior and Volunteer Program (RSVP) for people living with disabilities who need drop-offs to medical appointments. Phone numbers for each program are available on the site to make reservations.

Senior activities in Madison

Whether with peers on a community outing or with their families, senior living residents have many entertaining activity options in Madison. The city’s reverence for history, natural beauty, and cultural acumen combine to afford something for everyone to do.

If museums are for youtry a visit to the following:

What about games of chance? Ho-Chunk Gaming is a popular casino offering bingo, electric gaming, and other staples.

And if you need some fresh air, the following offer accessible walking paths:

You can also visit Madison’s accessible outdoor spaces including the following:

Frequently Asked Questions

Azura Memory Care of Stoughton, The Waterford at Fitchburg and Brookdale Middleton Century Avenue are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Madison, WI. These Nursing Homes facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Nursing Homes in Madison is $4,691 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. WalletHub. (2022). Best and worst places to retire.

  2. Genworth. (2021). Cost of Care Survey.

  3. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  4. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population estimates 2021: Madison, Wisconsin. [Data set].

  5. United States Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). VA Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance.

  6. United States Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12) Presumptive disability benefits.

  7. Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, March 8). Medicaid programs for seniors.

  8. Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, April 17). Medicaid eligibility handbook.

  9. Wisconsin Medicaid. (2023, January). Home and community-based services waiver programs.

  10. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. SNF care coverage. Medicare.gov.

  11. Wisconsin State Legislature. (2022). Special provisions applying to licensing and regulation of nursing homes.

  12. Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, February 1). Background check requirements.

  13. U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best hospitals in Madison, WI.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

WalletHub. (2022). Best and worst places to retire.

2.

Genworth. (2021). Cost of Care Survey.

3.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

4.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population estimates 2021: Madison, Wisconsin. [Data set].

5.

United States Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). VA Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance.

6.

United States Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12) Presumptive disability benefits.

7.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, March 8). Medicaid programs for seniors.

8.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, April 17). Medicaid eligibility handbook.

9.

Wisconsin Medicaid. (2023, January). Home and community-based services waiver programs.

10.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. SNF care coverage. Medicare.gov.

11.
12.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, February 1). Background check requirements.

13.

U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best hospitals in Madison, WI.