10 Best Memory Care Facilities in Madison, WI

Who are you searching for?

Madison, Wisconsin, offers excellent memory care options to seniors with dementia. As the capital of Wisconsin, Madison has a strong senior living infrastructure and is ranked as one of the top 25 U.S. cities to retire in.

A Place for Mom partners with multiple memory care facilities within Madison, Wisconsin. In these communities, you can find comprehensive, attentive care for your loved one with memory loss. This guide includes the cost of memory care in Madison, tips on how to pay, local laws and regulations, transportation options, health care, and senior-friendly activities.

Madison Memory Care Facilities | 2512 Reviews

Our methodology

How we rank order the Madison community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Madison community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:

Proximity to your search location
Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
The amount of detailed community information available

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information

350,000+ reviews

We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities

Read our full methodology

Table of contents

Costs of memory care in the Madison area
What families are saying about memory care in Madison
How people pay for memory care in Madison
Understand laws and regulations for memory care in Madison
What to expect from memory care living in Madison
Madison memory care services and amenities
Explore senior care with confidence
Unfamiliar with Madison? Highlights for seniors

Costs of memory care in the Madison area

Memory care in Madison costs on average $6,460 a month. This monthly fee includes the following services:

Rent for a private or semi-private room
Personal care services, such as mobility assistance
Dementia-specific care services
Daily meals and snacks
Housekeeping and maintenance
Access to amenities, such as a gym

Memory care tends to be more expensive than assisted living because it requires more staff training and specialized environments. In Madison, assisted living costs $6,200 a month on average.

Madison, Wisconsin, is an affordable city with a cost of living index that reflects the national average. However, it’s one of the most expensive places to live in Wisconsin. Local senior living costs reflect this, as memory care on average in Wisconsin costs $5,000 a month.

The following charts illustrate the baseline cost of memory care in Madison, before any additional fees. We recommend reading this chart as a comparison between Madison and nearby areas.

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, vs. state and national averages

Madison, WI

$6,926/mo

Wisconsin state

$7,352/mo

U.S. national average

$6,999/mo

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, vs. other senior living options

Assisted Living

$6,353/mo

Memory Care

$6,926/mo

Independent Living

$3,605/mo

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, by floor plan type

Semi-Private

$6,139/mo

Studio

$6,343/mo

1 Bedroom

$6,626/mo

2 Bedroom

$7,086/mo

Senior living costs in Madison vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.

Column communityType: Community type

Column destination: Madison, WI

Column state: Wisconsin

Column national: U.S.

Community type	Madison, WI	Wisconsin	U.S.
Memory Care	$6,926/mo	$7,352/mo	$6,999/mo
Assisted Living	$6,353/mo	$5,889/mo	$5,830/mo
Independent Living	$3,605/mo	$3,028/mo	$3,520/mo

Memory Care

Madison, WI:$6,926/mo

Wisconsin:$7,352/mo

U.S.:$6,999/mo

Assisted Living

Madison, WI:$6,353/mo

Wisconsin:$5,889/mo

U.S.:$5,830/mo

Independent Living

Madison, WI:$3,605/mo

Wisconsin:$3,028/mo

U.S.:$3,520/mo

Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly memory care costs have shifted over the past five years in Madison and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Madison, WIWI stateNational

Memory care cost trends in Madison, WI

The table below shows how monthly memory care costs in Madison have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 average costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.

Column location: Location

Column cost2024: 2024 average cost

Column cost2023: 2023 average cost

Column percentChange: Percent change

Location	2024 average cost	2023 average cost	Percent change
Madison, WI	$7,310/mo	$7,126/mo	+2.6%
Wisconsin	$7,031/mo	$6,777/mo	+3.7%
National	$6,685/mo	$6,446/mo	+3.7%

Madison, WI

2024 average cost:$7,310/mo

2023 average cost:$7,126/mo

Percent change:+2.6%

Wisconsin

2024 average cost:$7,031/mo

2023 average cost:$6,777/mo

Percent change:+3.7%

National

2024 average cost:$6,685/mo

2023 average cost:$6,446/mo

Percent change:+3.7%

Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

What families are saying about memory care in Madison

Recent reviews for memory care in Madison

Hallowstone at Middleton

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 ...

Our House Senior Living Senior Apartments - Portage

4.8

Our mom has dementia and has been there a few years now. The office staff and most of the employees are very good with her. She loves the feeling of living on her own and being able to have her dear cat with her and Our House gives her that. She would like more in house friends, but seems to ...

Spero Heritage in Watertown, WI

4.7

Heritage Homes is my choice for the place I call "home". It offers the amenities I value, such as central air conditioning, a parking garage that is easy to navigate in, craft room usage for my prized stash of craft materials, spacious living in square footage the size of a house, quiet home ...

Reviews mention these favorite features of communities

Well-staffed memory care facilities. Several reviews mention the importance of adequate staffing in memory care facilities to ensure proper care for residents. At Dimensions Living Stoughton, the staff is described as working hard and caring, with some individuals having been employed for a long time. However, at Oak Park Place ...

Engaging activities for memory care residents. Residents in memory care communities appreciate various activities to keep them engaged and stimulated. For instance, at Dimensions Living Stoughton, residents enjoy activities like Elvis impersonators and cowboy sing-a-longs. At Heritage Middleton, however, the activities offered were not m ...

Cleanliness and maintenance. Cleanliness is a crucial factor in the overall living experience for senior community residents. At Dimensions Living Stoughton, the facility is described as being clean, while at The Terraces at Coventry Village, the cleanliness of rooms and bathrooms fell short of expectations. At Homeste ...

Compassionate and friendly staff. Kind and compassionate staff members are essential in providing a positive living experience for senior community members. At Dimensions Living Stoughton, the staff is described as friendly and helpful, while at Drumlin Reserve Memory Care, they were criticized for not engaging enough with r ...

Individualized care plans. Personalized care plans tailored to individual resident needs are crucial in memory care communities. At The Terraces at Coventry Village, concerns were raised about the inconsistent application of care plans for residents, while at Oak Park Place Madison, the staff was seen as addressing re ...

Communication with families. Clear and consistent communication between staff and families is vital for peace of mind and ensuring proper care for loved ones. At Brookdale Madison West, families appreciate the regular updates and photos shared on Facebook, while at Dimensions Living Stoughton, some families wished for m ...

AI generated from the text of family reviews

Madison review score based on 327 family reviews

7.3

Review score218 facilities327 reviewsWrite a review

This proprietary review score is based on 327 reviews of 218 Madison memory care communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.

The Madison review score informs your search by letting you see at a glance how memory care residents and family members rate memory care in your area. Compare review scores in multiple locations to understand how overall satisfaction rates differ from city to city. Based on recent reviews, the maximum possible score is 10.Methodology: How we calculate our city review scores

Madison review score compared against nearby cities

7.3

Madison, WI218 facilities

7.4

Portage, WI185 facilities

7.6

Monroe, WI177 facilities

Review subcategories for Madison memory care

When memory care residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 327 reviews of 218 Madison memory care communities. This chart helps you compare Madison resident and family memory care satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.

Madison, WI averageNational average

Cleanliness

3.3

3.7

Friendliness

3.4

3.8

Care services

3.0

3.5

Staff

3.2

3.7

Meals & dining

3.0

3.4

Activities

3.0

3.3

Value for cost*

3.0

3.4

0.01.02.03.04.05.0

*Learn more about cost details

How people pay for memory care in Madison

Paying for a memory care stay can be one of the most arduous aspects of deciding to stay in one. You can help your loved one pay with personal income or savings, VA benefits, or public options such as Medicare and Medicaid. Here, we’ll explore each payment strategy and introduce resources that can help you finance your memory care.

Private pay methods in Madison

If you’re exploring a memory care facility for your loved one, financing it through personal means can be an effective way to get the process going. This can include using private savings, cashing in on hard-earned Social Security benefits and pension payouts, or leveraging the fruits of an investment portfolio. Try exploring some of the other options below as well.

Caregiver Resources

Using HSA Funds for Long-Term Care ExpensesBy Celia Searles

Assisted Living

Does Long-Term Care Insurance Cover Assisted Living?By Chacour Koop

Senior Living

5 Things to Consider When Selling a House to Pay for Senior CareBy Kevin Ryan

Caregiver Resources

Using a Reverse Mortgage to Pay for Long-Term Senior Care: Pros and ConsBy Nicole Gregory

Caregiver Resources

Using Life Insurance to Pay for Long-Term Care: 5 OptionsBy Nicole Gregory

VA benefits for memory care in Madison

Number of veterans who live in Madison as of 2021

About 26% of Madison veterans are 75+

Upward of 2,500 senior veterans in Madison are 75 years or older.^[03] The city has a slew of options available to those looking to finance memory care stays via VA benefits. For example, the VA Aid and Attendance benefit can help cover costs by adding an additional amount of money to the monthly Veterans Pension. Many of A Place for Mom’s partnering memory care facilities offer discounts for veterans, so be sure to ask as you tour facilities.

An assortment of veterans services offices and organizations (VSOs) can help your family determine what might apply to your loved one’s circumstance. VSOs are VA-vetted organizations that support veterans and their families in applying for benefits. In Madison, reaching out to the Dane County Veterans Service Office, Veterans of Foreign Wars Department or Day Post, and the American Legion can help if you’re unsure whether your loved one qualifies for benefits.

Ask your Senior Living Advisor about the options for veterans in your area. A Place for Mom has partnered with USAA, and together they have led to over $8 million of secured veteran’s benefits for seniors using our service.

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

Online guides

A Place for Mom Veterans Benefits Guide PDF

Service-related ailments PDF

Federal veterans benefits booklet

Madison Medicaid coverage for memory care

Medicaid, the health insurance program for those with low incomes, won’t cover all memory care expenses, but it can help. Wisconsin Medicaid may cover much of the costs for your loved one’s memory care through the Family Care Program, the IRIS Program, or Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.

The Family Care Program and the IRIS Program are similar. They’re both for seniors who need long-term care. Both programs may pay for room and board in a memory care facility, although the amount paid depends on the individual’s income and health status. The IRIS Program allows for more individual choice about where seniors receive care, but pays for less of the care overall than the Family Care Program. Seniors who need skilled nursing care in Madison should consider the Institutional Medical Assistance program.

Memory care residents 65 and older who are in need of prescription assistance can sign up for the state’s SeniorCare program for $30 a year. The assistance is based on income and is for people who are 65+.

You can view a highly comprehensive Wisconsin Medicaid eligibility handbook, which also contains helpful details on how to apply. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services also offers a Job Center to assist those trying to determine eligibility and navigate the application process.

In addition to these resources, the state’s Board on Aging and Long-Term Care and corresponding Ombudsman Program, and the local Area Agency on Aging, are ready to help. These resources can help you apply for benefits other than medical coverage, too.

Madison resident Medicaid resources

Local Medicaid services

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 memory care coverage in Madison

Medicare is a federal health insurance program available for individuals who are disabled or over age 65.^[05] Medicare won’t cover the cost of a memory care facility, but it can still be helpful. Medicare covers medical needs for people over 65. This includes things such as necessary medical equipment, medications, hospice care, and preventive health services.^[06] Medicare will also cover some in-home health services for residents of a memory care facility.^[07]

You can find plenty of help in Madison to understand your loved one’s benefits and even get help with the application process.

Use these options to find Medicare coverage in Madison:

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), offers free counseling to those who call the Medigap Helpline or Medigap Part D and Prescription Drug Helpline.
The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Dane County is another helpful resource when applying for public benefits.
Wisconsin’s Board on Aging and Long-Term Care has an Ombudsman Program that helps answer questions about aging and elder rights.
Local Social Security offices can also provide specific information regarding Medicare eligibility and coverage.
Wisconsin’s Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program can help pay for Medicare premiums and copayment for low-income seniors. Medicare members diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia can get some of their memory care costs paid for, though not all.^[08]
My Choice Wisconsin offers five different managed care programs to help people with a variety of long-term care needs. Your loved one can apply for My Choice Wisconsin over the phone, in person, or by mail. Lastly, Wisconsin’s SeniorCare helps with some prescription coverage and costs just $30 a year.

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 laws and regulations for memory care in Madison

Madison’s memory care facilities in Madison follow strict laws to keep residents safe and healthy and family members involved. Memory care facilities across Wisconsin are regulated by the Department of Health, and are classified as a type of assisted living. There are three types of assisted living in the state:

Residential Care Apartment Complexes: This assisted living type is defined as one that provides room and board, personal care, up to 28 hours a week of supportive care, and nursing services.
Community-Based Residential Facilities: These offer room and board, support services, and supervision, as well as up to three hours of weekly nursing care.
Adult Family Homes: These are for a small group of just three to four residents. This includes room and board, care and treatment, and up to seven hours per week of nursing care.

These are all expected to maintain a license and fall under the jurisdiction of the Wisconsin Division of Quality Assurance. The Bureau of Assisted Living (BAL) inspects senior living facilities every two years. Their inspections can be unannounced. You can check a facility’s compliance on this provider search website. If you have additional questions, contact the DQA Bureau of Assisted Living Regional Offices.

Memory care regulations

In addition to assisted living requirements, memory care facilities must also meet the following requirements:^[09]

Facilities must be staffed enough to meet residents’ needs on a 24-hour basis.
All staff that offer memory care must complete training in managing the medical and psychological needs of those with dementia. This training must be completed within 90 days of employment.
Administrators and care staff must all receive 15 hours of continuing education each year.
Facilities should reach out to family members with updates regularly.

Wisconsin’s Caregiver Law established specific caregiver programs that were created to ensure the staff and these types of facilities have what they need to provide the best possible care.

Wisconsin Department of Health contact information

Wisconsin Department of Health Services

1 W. Wilson St.
Madison, WI, 53703

Phone: 608-266-1865
Hours: Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Why do licensure and inspection reports matter to families?

State regulations — and a community’s track record with inspections and licensing — offer important insights into safety and quality of care in senior living communities.

Download the Guide to Senior Living Licensure and Inspection Reports to learn what to look for in inspection reports and what questions to ask when touring communities. This resource explains how to use state licensure and inspection information to evaluate a community’s compliance, care standards, and responsiveness to issues.

COVID-19 regulations for Madison memory care facilities

There are currently no COVID-19 mandates for memory care facilities in Madison. However, there are some Wisconsin state guidelines to help with prevention.

Vaccinations. Vaccinations are not required for people living in or visiting memory care facilities.

Masking. Memory care residents and guests are encouraged, but not required, to wear masks when within the facilities.

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

CDC guidelines. The CDC guidelines are fluid. To stay updated to any changes or see additional information, click here.

What to expect from memory care living in Madison

Memory care facilities offer personal care to people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other kinds of dementia. What makes memory care facilities different from assisted living facilities is that the staff specialize in working with people who have memory loss. Daily activities are tailored to soothe and engage seniors with dementia. Memory care facilities often also have features designed specifically for dementia patients, such as circular hallways to allow for wandering.

Madison memory care residents can expect someone to be available to help them at all hours of the day or night. Exactly 100% of A Place for Mom’s partnering memory care communities in Madison have 24-hour awake staff who are there to comfort and redirect residents. You can also expect safe and secure indoor common areas. Depending on the community, this may include secure courtyards or a wander management system. Since Madison experiences cold winters, almost all of A Place for Mom’s partnering memory care facilities offer indoor walking spaces.

Residents have access to on-site specialists dedicated to speech therapy, medication administration, and disorientation care. Memory care facilities in Madison tend to have more security features than assisted living facilities to prevent elopements.

Your loved one’s local memory care facility will provide at least some of following amenities to support their quality of life, along with opportunities for engagement with other residents:

An activity director
Arts and crafts center
Enclosed courtyard
Indoor and outdoor common areas
A library
TV Lounge

Assisted living and memory care

There are 16 assisted living communities throughout Madison that offer memory care, making this the city’s most popular and available type of care in our partner network. Residents can expect memory care treatment along with daily assistance on needs such as bathing, dressing, and administering prescription medications.

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

Seen as a more modern form of care, the three hybrid-style facilities we partner with have options for seniors needing daily assistance in memory care and assisted living, or elderly tenants who are still able to live with little to no help in independent living. Senior tenants are all afforded on-site housing and meals, with varying types of on-site care available as needed to allow for changing needs to be met easily.

Madison memory care services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Madison memory care communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Madison, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select care services in Madison memory care

Memory care communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of memory care partners in Madison that offer these care services compared to the percentage of partners that offer them nationally.

Madison, WINational

Full medication management

61.5%

63.8%

Doctor on call

13.3%

47.2%

24-Hour awake staff

97.7%

82.2%

Diabetic care

98.6%

98.2%

*Visiting health care professionals

67.9%

69.9%

Home care agency on-site

24.8%

28.4%

Non-ambulatory care

98.6%

89.4%

Respite or short term stays

61%

59.1%

Hospice available on-site

68.3%

69.5%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

*Including nurse, dentist, OT, PT, speech or podiatrist

Availability of select dementia care services in Madison memory care

Our community partners provide many services to keep residents with dementia or other memory concerns safe and engaged. Below, take a look at what percentage of Madison Memory Care partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.

Madison, WINational

Dementia behaviors care

57.8%

72.2%

Specialized memory care training for staff

31.2%

45.6%

Secured community and/or wander guard

47.7%

68%

Memory care only community

27.5%

26.2%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Madison memory care

Memory care communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Madison partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.

Madison, WINational

Nutritionist / dietician

12.4%

28%

Low / no sodium

34.9%

44.8%

No sugar

33%

41.4%

Vegetarian

33.5%

50.4%

Pureed meals

10.6%

22.8%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Madison memory care

Our memory care communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Madison communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.

Madison, WINational

Professional chef

17.9%

32.1%

Restaurant style dining

31.2%

40.1%

Room service

23.9%

37.6%

Anytime dining

12.4%

23%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Madison memory care

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered memory care communities in Madison offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.

Madison, WINational

Activity director

36.7%

45.5%

Pet-focused programs

26.6%

33.2%

Community service programs

17.9%

29%

Devotional activities on-site

60.6%

53.2%

Parties / BBQs / happy hour

49.5%

51.1%

Outings / off-site activities

59.6%

59.7%

Piano or organ

34.4%

39.7%

Arts and crafts center

29.8%

35.8%

Educational speakers / life long learning

27.1%

36.8%

Clubs / games / karaoke

41.3%

47.1%

Live performances

46.3%

47.3%

Dances

21.6%

32.1%

Fitness center

14.2%

22.4%

Fitness classes

42.7%

46.3%

0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Explore senior care with confidence

Know where to start.

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

Take our care quiz

See what you can afford.

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

Learn how to pay for senior care

Find top facilities for you.

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

Talk with a local expert

Tour your favorite facilities.

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

Download touring checklist

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

$25,775

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

Health care for seniors in Madison

Two well-known major medical centers in Madison can provide general, geriatric, and other types of care for city residents along with the local VA hospital.

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

University Hospital in Madison

University Hospital in Madison is the top-ranked health care provider in Madison. Memory care doctors offer dementia care on-site and participate in research at the University of Wisconsin.

Find a doctor
Find a location

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 specialties and procedures.

Find a doctor
Find a location

William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans’ Hospital

Madison’s VA hospital received the highest national award for patient experience in 2022. The hospital offers a wide-variety of care including cancer, cardiology, emergency, geriatrics, mental health, neurology, orthopedics, primary care, transplant surgery, social work and more.

Find a doctor
Find a location

Transportation for seniors in Madison

Though memory care residents require a more watchful eye for their own safety, it’s critical that they have some kind of outlet to travel outside of the facility. No senior with dementia should ever travel alone though, even on public transportation.

According to our research, about 81% of the memory care facilities we partner with have at-cost transportation for residents. Some of these communities offer complimentary transportation as well — a total of 29% of our partnered communities offer complimentary transportation.

The County Coordinated Group Rides (CCGR) services cater to adults with developmental disabilities, frail adults, and adults with developmental disabilities enrolled in Long-Term Support through either Family Care, Family Care Partnership, or IRIS. Visit their website for more information about the application process and reservation details for additional transportation provided by Dane County Human Services. Families can reserve rides for their loved ones.

Senior activities in Madison

Seniors with memory loss can benefit immensely from indoor and outdoor activities, both of which Madison has in spades. Whether your loved one is enjoying on-site classes or activities within the memory care facility, or spending the day out on the town with a friend or loved one, there is something for all seniors in this quintessential town. We recommend always joining your loved one for outings, or ensuring that they have a caregiver or a friend who can support them.

Culture and history

Seniors can reminisce with their family, admire art, and participate in crafts at these locations:

Wisconsin State Capitol. Seniors can tour the Wisconsin State Capitol for free on most weekdays without a reservation. If you plan on going with a group larger than 10 people, call ahead to make sure there’s space. The Capitol also offers virtual tours of the rooms, art, and history of the building on their website.
Wisconsin Veterans Museum. This museum honors the veterans from across the state. The museum is free to all visitors and is open every day except for Mondays. This museum doesn’t offer wheelchairs for visitors but is handicap accessible.
The Wisconsin Historical Museum. The museum is currently undergoing extensive renovations, the Wisconsin Historical Museum is currently operating pop-up exhibits around the city for free. You can find the hours and locations on the museum’s website.
The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. This museum has free admission and is open from Thursday to Sunday after noon. The museum doesn’t offer accessible, on-site parking, but the museum is wheelchair accessible.
Chazen Museum of Art. The Chazen Museum of Art is on the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Admission is always free, and there’s a café and coffee shop on-site.

Outdoor attractions

Seniors and their loved ones can also explore Madison’s natural beauty together. There are outdoor spaces that are senior-friendly in all weather conditions.

The Picnic Point on Marsh Loop Trail is an outdoor path that’s easy to navigate. Families may also consider exploring the UW arboretum and the Howard Temin Lakeshore Path. All seniors with dementia should bring a companion with them when walking outside.

You and your loved one may also enjoy some of Madison’s many accessible outdoor parks, such as the Washington Manor Park, Vilas Henry Park, and Warner Park.

Senior activities in Madison

Memory care patients are a vibrant group that can hugely benefit from indoor and outdoor activities, both of which Madison has in spades. Whether your loved one is enjoying on-site classes or activities within the memory care facility of your choice, or spending the day out on the town with a friend or loved one, there is something for all seniors in this quintessential town.

The Wisconsin State Capitol, Wisconsin Veterans Museum, The Wisconsin Historical Museum, The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, and Chazen Museum of Art are all fun, cultured adventures that memory care residents and their loved ones can experience together. The Madison Senior Center also has craft sessions, movie matinees, and a slew of other relaxed activities for elderly visitors and their families.

Memory care patients and their loved ones can also explore Madison’s natural beauty together. Stroll through Picnic Point on Marsh Loop Trail, the UW arboretum, and Howard Temin Lakeshore Path, for a start. You can also visit some of Madison’s many accessible outdoor parks like Washington Manor Park, Vilas Henry Park, and Warner Park. Here you’ll find plenty of peaceful outdoor space to enjoy a quiet stroll with your loved ones, sit and watch the people, or just take in the fresh air.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Waterford at Fitchburg, Ridge at Madison and Eden Vista Madison are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near Madison, WI. These Memory Care facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Memory Care in Madison is $6,926 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

The 218 memory care facilities near you in Madison, Wisconsin typically provide housing, therapies, and care tailored to those who have Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. To find memory care in Madison, Wisconsin, browse our detailed listings showing photos, floor plans, amenities, activities, and reviews from real families.

Browse A Place for Mom’s listings for memory care in Madison, Wisconsin, to take a virtual tour. Our local senior living experts can arrange for a live tour of these communities as well.

The cost of memory care facilities in Madison, Wisconsin ranges from $2000 to $9450. The average Memory Care cost in Madison, Wisconsin is $6,926. Prices often vary based on care provided, amenities, unit size, and more.

The cost of memory care in Madison, Wisconsin typically starts at $2000. A Place for Mom’s local, expert senior living advisors can help you find affordable memory care facilities near you and offer advice on how to lower costs and pay for care with VA benefits or public payment options.

References

WalletHub. (2022). Best & Worst Places to Retire.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population Estimates 2021: Madison, Wisconsin [Data set].
Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, March 8). Medicaid Programs for Seniors.
United States Department of Health & Human Services. (2022, December 8). Who’s eligible for Medicare? HHS.gov.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What Medicare covers. Medicare.gov.
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Home health services. Medicare.gov.
Alzheimer’s Association. Medicare.
Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2015). Compendium of residential care and assisted living regulations and policy: 2015 edition.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals in Madison, WI.
U.S. News and World Report. (n.d.). UW Health University Hospital: Geriatrics.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital-Madison.

More questions?

Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.

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.

https://hydra.prod.aplaceformom.com/graphql

2devne7t7k73

J7PEVho1wGm72cc3oBCuh78lk22e3qNf

/image/web-lighthouse/prod/Best-Of-2026-small-badge.png?t=default

desktop

alzheimers-care

Madison

madison

Wisconsin

wisconsin

Cities

449.471787

DestinationHeader

Destination Page

SEO

true

false

true

1349128

53916

false

true

72784

53590

false

true

102529

53597

false

419235

16769

normal

53703

false

true

Dane County

-89.3931,43.0826

2026

DESTINATION_PAGE

universalSearch.0ff6e5d8133d1509d052.js

ALZHEIMERS_CARE

{"city":[6594,6834,6290,6680,7050,7310,7129,7013,7219,7232,7895,6895,7281,7314,6759,7510,6967],"state":[6295,6472,6113,6741,6735,6724,6914,6734,7101,6921,7439,6661,7202,7366,7005,7496,7416],"national":[5890,6041,6016,6099,6386,6387,6464,6546,6660,6725,6659,6697,6889,6860,6910,7046,7181],"years":[2022,2022.25,2022.5,2022.75,2023,2023.25,2023.5,2023.75,2024,2024.25,2024.5,2024.75,2025,2025.25,2025.5,2025.75,2026]}

destinationBelowTheFold.0850142b8d1dca8d471f.js

false

“Our Senior Living Advisor, Rochelle, was very professional and so helpful in finding a memory care facility for my dad that would meet his needs.”

- Mike Cagwin

professional helpful

{"wpSlug":"destination-page-inline","form":{"analytics":{"formId":"top-lead-form-challenger","formType":"long","moduleId":"Destination Page Top Lead Form Challenger v1.0","sourceId":38,"subSourceId":6257,"channel2":"SEO","pageType":"Destination Page","formVersionId":1,"formVersionDate":"12/18/2024","lastBulkUpdateTime":1758223062,"ranDisclaimerUpdates":true},"canonicalUrl":"Destination Page | A Place For Mom","commonData":{"thankYouShort":{"title":"Thanks, {{firstName}}","titleHtml":"One of our expert Senior Living Advisors will be reaching out to support your search.","paragraphs":["Your personalized listings are below."],"image":"/image/web-lighthouse/prod/SLA-IN-17991.jpg","searchLinkText":"See my listings","searchLinkUrl":"#top-of-community-list"},"thankYou":{"titleHtml":"Thanks, {{firstName}}Based on your selections we recommend you speak with a Senior Living Advisor ","image":"/image/web-lighthouse/prod/progressive-v1-thankyou.jpg","listSection":{"list":["We will reach out as soon as possible during normal business hours below","Need to talk to someone right away? Call us at {{apfmPhoneNumber}}","Our service is 100% free of charge to you and your family as we are paid by the communities in our network"]},"searchLinkText":"Show me listings near {{city}}"},"formBlock":{"disclaimer":"By sharing your contact information, you agree to our <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"/terms-of-use\">Terms of Use</a> and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"/privacy\">Privacy Policy</a>. You also consent to receive texts and calls from us and our community customers, including telemarketing and/or advertising, even if your number is on a Do Not Call list. Outreach may be during quiet hours under all applicable laws, auto-dialed, or may use pre-recorded or artificial voice. Your consent is not a condition to using our service. Msg and Data Rates may apply. Msg frequency varies. Text HELP for Help. Text STOP for Stop."},"thankYouAddOn":{"image":"/image/web-lighthouse/prod/ty-sla.jpg","title":"Hi, {{firstName}}","paragraph":"Thanks for contacting us; We are calling you now to understand your situation better","countdownText":"Our call will arrive within: 00:10","avatarText":"Get insight from a local","quote":"“I love having the knowledge to empower and educate families, so they are confident in their long term care decisions.” - Keri, Senior Living Advisor","searchLinkText":"Show me my listings"},"formBlockBP":{"disclaimer":"By sharing your contact information, you agree to our <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"/terms-of-use\">Terms of Use</a> and <a target=\"_blank\" href=\"/privacy\">Privacy Policy</a>. You also consent to receive texts and calls from us and our community customers, including telemarketing and/or advertising, even if your number is on a Do Not Call list. Outreach may be during quiet hours under all applicable laws, auto-dialed, or may use pre-recorded or artificial voice. Your consent is not a condition to using our service. Msg and Data Rates may apply. Msg frequency varies. Text HELP for Help. Text STOP for Stop."}},"description":"Destination Page | A Place For Mom","dynamicHeadlines":{"locationCurrentlyLivingQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"Where is Mom living?","FATHER":"Where is Dad living?","SELF":"Where are you living?","SPOUSE":"Where is your spouse living?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Where is this person living?"}},"wheelchairPropelQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"Can Mom propel her wheelchair on her own?","FATHER":"Can Dad propel his wheelchair on his own?","SELF":"Can you propel your wheelchair on your own?","SPOUSE":"Can your spouse propel their wheelchair on their own?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Can this person propel their wheelchair on their own?"}},"wheelchairTransferQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"Can Mom transfer from her wheelchair to a bed or couch on her own?","FATHER":"Can Dad transfer from his wheelchair to a bed or couch on his own?","SELF":"Can you transfer from your wheelchair to a bed or couch on your own?","SPOUSE":"Can your spouse transfer from their wheelchair to a bed or couch on their own?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Can this person transfer from their wheelchair to a bed or couch on their own?"}},"assistanceQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"Does Mom need help with the following?","FATHER":"Does Dad need help with the following?","SELF":"Do you need help with the following?","SPOUSE":"Does your spouse need help with the following?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Does this person need help with the following?"}},"behaviorsExperiencedQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"Has Mom experienced any of the following behaviors related to memory loss?","FATHER":"Has Dad experienced any of the following behaviors related to memory loss?","SELF":"Have you experienced any of the following behaviors related to memory loss?","SPOUSE":"Has your spouse experienced any of the following behaviors related to memory loss?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Has this person experienced any of the following behaviors related to memory loss?"}},"financialResourcesQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"How does Mom plan to pay for senior living?","FATHER":"How does Dad plan to pay for senior living?","SELF":"How do you plan to pay for senior living?","SPOUSE":"How does your spouse plan to pay for senior living?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"How do you or this person plan to pay for senior living?"}},"veteranQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"Is Mom or her spouse a wartime Veteran?","FATHER":"Is Dad or his spouse a wartime Veteran?","SELF":"Are you or your spouse a wartime Veteran?","SPOUSE":"Are you or your spouse a wartime Veteran?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Is this person or their spouse a wartime Veteran?"}},"resident1AgeQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"How old is Mom?","FATHER":"How old is Dad?","SELF":"How old are you?","SPOUSE":"How old is your spouse?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"How old is this person?"}},"getAroundQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"How is Mom getting around?","FATHER":"How is Dad getting around?","SELF":"How are you getting around?","SPOUSE":"How is your spouse getting around?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"How is this person getting around?"}},"resident1NameQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"What is Mom’s name?","FATHER":"What is Dad’s name?","SPOUSE":"What is your spouse’s name?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"What is this person’s name?"},"inputPlaceholders":{"resident1FirstName":{"MOTHER":"Mom's first name","FATHER":"Dad's first name","SPOUSE":"Spouse's first name","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Person's first name"},"resident1LastName":{"MOTHER":"Mom's last name","FATHER":"Dad's last name","SPOUSE":"Spouse's last name","OTHER_RELATIVE":"Person's last name"}},"list":{"MOTHER":["We won’t contact your mother"],"FATHER":["We won’t contact your father"],"SPOUSE":["We won’t contact your spouse"],"OTHER_RELATIVE":["We won’t contact this person"]},"tip":{"MOTHER":"We need Mom’s name for our records. We will not contact your Mom.","FATHER":"We need Dad's name for our records. We will not contact your Dad.","SPOUSE":"We need your spouse's name for our records. We will not contact your spouse.","OTHER_RELATIVE":"We need this person's name for our records. We will not contact this person."}},"resident1AmenitiesQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"What would Mom like in a community?","FATHER":"What would Dad like in a community?","SELF":"What would you like in a community?","SPOUSE":"What would your spouse like in a community?","OTHER_RELATIVE":"What would this person like in a community?"}},"notesQuestion":{"headline":{"MOTHER":"What else is important to Mom? (optional)","FATHER":"What else is important to Dad? (optional)","SELF":"What else is important to you? (optional)","SPOUSE":"What else is important to your spouse? (optional)","OTHER_RELATIVE":"What else is important to this person? (optional)"}}},"phases":[{"name":"Phase One","key":"phase_1","theme":"SEOProg","plugins":[{"name":"locationInquiryFields","on":"relationToResidentQuestion","pluginData":{}},{"name":"leadFormCompleted","on":"relationToResidentQuestion","pluginData":{"tyStepName":"thankYou"}},{"name":"getNextPhaseData","on":"moveDateRangeQuestion","pluginData":{"cmsSlug":"destination-page-inline","phaseToLoad":"phase_2","shouldBeCalledOnce":true}},{"name":"getNextPhaseData","on":"lookingReasonQuestion","pluginData":{"cmsSlug":"inline-add-on-v2","phaseToLoad":"phase_3","shouldLoadCss":true,"shouldBeCalledOnce":true}}],"steps":[{"figmaStep":"null","name":"relationToResidentQuestion","qualtricsName":"relationToResidentQuestion","component":"SelectSingleColTwoDestinationSlimFirstStep","controller":"SelectSingleController","progressBarType":"default","on":{"ANY_VALUE":"moveDateRangeQuestion"},"componentData":{"header":"Answer a few questions to get personalized results","title":"Who are you searching for?","options":[{"inquiryField":["relationToResident","relationshipToResidentDetail"],"label":"Spouse","value":["SPOUSE","SPOUSE"]},{"inquiryField":["relationToResident","relationshipToResidentDetail"],"label":"Myself","value":["SELF","SELF"]},{"inquiryField":["relationToResident","relationshipToResidentDetail"],"label":"Mom","value":["MOTHER","MOTHER"]},{"inquiryField":["relationToResident","relationshipToResidentDetail"],"label":"Dad","value":["FATHER","FATHER"]},{"inquiryField":["relationToResident","relationshipToResidentDetail"],"label":"Someone else","value":["OTHER_RELATIVE","OTHER_RELATIVE"]}],"hideProgressBar":true,"hideBackButton":true,"saveToStorage":true},"analytics":{"headerText":"{{title}}","questionType":"Who","formStepType":"question","question":"{{title}}"}},{"figmaStep":"null","name":"moveDateRangeQuestion","qualtricsName":"moveDateRangeQuestion","component":"SelectSingleColTwoDestinationSlimStep","controller":"SelectSingleController","progressBarType":"default","on":{"_0_DAYS":"lookingReasonQuestion","_30_DAYS":"lookingReasonQuestion","_60_DAYS":"lookingReasonQuestion","MORE_THAN_90":"lookingReasonQuestion"},"componentData":{"title":"How quickly do you need to find an option?","options":[{"inquiryField":["moveDateRange"],"label":"ASAP","value":["_0_DAYS"]},{"inquiryField":["moveDateRange"],"label":"Within 30 days","value":["_30_DAYS"]},{"inquiryField":["moveDateRange"],"label":"Within 60 days","value":["_60_DAYS"]},{"inquiryField":["moveDateRange"],"label":"No rush","value":["MORE_THAN_90"]}],"saveToStorage":true},"analytics":{"headerText":"{{title}}","questionType":"Urgency","formStepType":"question","question":"{{title}}"}},{"figmaStep":"null","name":"lookingReasonQuestion","qualtricsName":"lookingReasonQuestion","component":"SelectSingleColTwoDestinationSlimStep","controller":"SelectSingleController","progressBarType":"default","on":{"DISCHARGE_HOSPITAL_REHAB":"budgetQuestion","OTHER":"budgetQuestion"},"componentData":{"title":"Is dementia or a hospital/rehab stay prompting your search?","options":[{"inquiryField":["lookingReason"],"label":"Yes","value":["DISCHARGE_HOSPITAL_REHAB"]},{"inquiryField":["lookingReason"],"label":"No","value":["OTHER"]}],"saveToStorage":true},"analytics":{"headerText":"{{title}}","questionType":"Reason","formStepType":"question","question":"{{title}}"}},{"figmaStep":"null","name":"budgetQuestion","qualtricsName":"budgetQuestion","component":"SelectSingleColTwoDestinationSlimStep","controller":"SelectSingleController","progressBarType":"default","on":{"ANY_VALUE":"formBlock"},"componentData":{"title":"Would you estimate the monthly budget above or below $1,500?","options":[{"inquiryField":["budgetMin","budgetMax"],"label":"Above","value":["2001","2000"]},{"inquiryField":["budgetMin","budgetMax"],"label":"Below","value":["1","1999"]}],"saveToStorage":true},"analytics":{"headerText":"{{title}}","questionType":"Budget Qualifier","formStepType":"question","question":"{{title}}","buttonText":"{{buttonAction.label}}"}},{"figmaStep":null,"name":"thankYou","qualtricsName":"thankYou","component":"ThankYouShort","controller":"ThankYouShortController","componentData":{"showBusinessHours":false,"keepStepVisible":true,"hideProgressBar":true},"analytics":{"headerText":"{{title}}","questionType":"Off-ramp inquiry response error","formStepType":"4 text fields","question":"{{title}}","buttonText":"{{buttonAction.label}}"}}]}],"progress":{"relationToResidentQuestion":0,"moveDateRangeQuestion":50,"lookingReasonQuestion":75,"budgetQuestion":100,"formBlock":null,"thankYouInquiryResponseError":null,"startPhase3":56.52,"offRampTalkToAnAdvisor":8.7,"locationInputQuestion":13.04,"locationCurrentlyLivingQuestion":17.39,"resident1AmenitiesQuestion":21.74,"notesQuestion":26.09,"resident1AgeQuestion":30.43,"resident1NameQuestion":34.78,"getAroundQuestion":39.13,"assistanceQuestion":43.48,"behaviorsExperiencedQuestion":47.83,"eligibilityBreakTwo":52.17,"thankYouOffRampNoResidentName":null,"thankYouOfframpNoCommunities":null,"thankYouOffRampTimerExpired":null,"tempStateFastCarAnswers":null,"secondFinancialResourcesQuestion":60.87,"veteranQuestion":65.22,"budgetRangeQuestion":69.57,"thankYouBudgetRangeQuestionOfframp":null,"eligibilityBreakThree":73.91,"thankYouEligibilityThreeOffRamp":null,"startPhase4":78.26,"is2fAuthOptInQuestion":82.61,"emailConfirmation":82.61,"twoFactorAuthEmailCodeQuestion":86.96,"twoFactorAuthEmailCodeWithoutBackButtonQuestion":86.96,"twoFactorAuthPhoneCodeQuestion":86.96,"thankYouOfframpNoCode":null,"stateDisclosure":91.3,"viewResults":95.65,"thankYouInquiryUpdateOnOffRampSpeakToAnAdvisorFirst":null,"eligibilityBreakFour":100,"communities":null},"title":"Destination Page | A Place For Mom"}}

webLeadsInlineAddOn.f73ab2e84d04118a0b9a.css

10 Best Memory Care Facilities in Madison, WI

Madison Memory Care Facilities | 2512 Reviews

Our free advisors can help

Our methodology

How we rank order the Madison community options above

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

350,000+ reviews

Costs of memory care in the Madison area

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, vs. state and national averages

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, vs. other senior living options

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, by floor plan type

Senior living costs in Madison vs. state and national costs

Memory care costs in Madison, WI, over time

Memory care cost trends in Madison, WI

What families are saying about memory care in Madison

Recent reviews for memory care in Madison

Reviews mention these favorite features of communities

Madison review score based on 327 family reviews

Madison review score compared against nearby cities

Review subcategories for Madison memory care

How people pay for memory care in Madison

Understand laws and regulations for memory care in Madison

Memory care regulations

Wisconsin Department of Health contact information

Why do licensure and inspection reports matter to families?

COVID-19 regulations for Madison memory care facilities

What to expect from memory care living in Madison

Assisted living and memory care

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

Madison memory care services and amenities

Availability of select care services in Madison memory care

Availability of select dementia care services in Madison memory care

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Madison memory care

Availability of select dining options in Madison memory care

Availability of select programs and activities in Madison memory care

Explore senior care with confidence

Unfamiliar with Madison? Highlights for seniors

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

Health care for seniors in Madison

Transportation for seniors in Madison

Senior activities in Madison

Culture and history

Outdoor attractions

Senior activities in Madison

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated Memory Care facilities near Madison, Wisconsin?

How much does Memory Care cost in Madison, Wisconsin?

How do I find memory care in Madison, Wisconsin?

How do I take a virtual tour of memory care facilities in Madison, Wisconsin?

What is the cost of memory care in Madison, Wisconsin?

What are ways to find affordable memory care facilities in Madison, Wisconsin?

References

More questions?