Renowned as one of the safest cities in the country and one of the best places to retire, Naperville, Illinois, is a great option for senior living. Located just a stone’s throw from Chicago, Naperville is an engaging community offering ample entertainment and dining options for seniors and their family members and friends — not to mention the surrounding natural beauty they can enjoy.
If you’re looking for a nursing home for you or your loved one, it is important to know that the term is often used for a variety of senior living arrangements, but it is actually in reference to skilled nursing facilities. A nursing home provides 24-hour medical care to residents. But if that’s not what you or your loved one need, you might be searching for services that are aligned with a senior living community that specializes in memory care or assisted living.
Memory care facilities provide around-the-clock specialized care and long-term housing for residents with memory loss, and assisted living facilities support seniors who are somewhat active but need some help with activities of daily living.
If this is the kind of care you’re looking for, A Place for Mom partners with 38 assisted living and memory care facilities within 10 miles of downtown Naperville. In this guide, we’ll go over what you and your loved ones can expect from nursing homes, assisted living communities, and memory care facilities, your options for paying for them, and the rules and regulations that govern these facilities. We’ll also touch on everything Naperville has to offer you and your loved ones.
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Naperville community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
The average cost of a Naperville-based skilled nursing home (a facility that provides around-the-clock short- and long-term care for patients) costs an average of $6,996 per month for a semi-private room and $8,060 for a private room.[01]
However, many people who are seeking care options under the umbrella term “nursing home” might actually need assisted living or memory care services. According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, assisted living in Naperville costs an average of $5,127 per month, and memory care in Naperville costs an average of $5,609 per month.[02] These figures take into account all fees and service fee add-ons to represent a total monthly cost.
Figuring out your payment options for senior living facilities in Naperville can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are several options available that can make these costs more manageable.
In this section, you’ll find information on resources that can help you finance assisted living or memory care, including private pay, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid.
When planning for nursing homes, assisted living, or memory care expenses, one of the first resources often considered is private pay. This method involves using personal income sources, which can include savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, returns from investments, and more. These options may provide the necessary funds to cover the cost of care and allow families greater flexibility in their facility options.
Choosing the right combination of private pay methods depends on the individual’s financial situation and the type of care needed. It’s essential to consider all options before making any decisions and fully understand the terms and conditions of each. With the right approach, seniors can maintain financial stability while receiving high-quality care.
You can explore additional funding options below.
Number of veterans who live in Naperville
About 23% of Naperville veterans are 75+
Naperville veterans and their spouses may be eligible for certain benefits to help cover the cost of skilled nursing care, assisted living, and memory care.
The VA Pension is a benefit that can help cover the cost of some housing or health-related needs. You can check online to see if you or your loved one is eligible for the VA Pension. To apply for the VA Pension, fill out an online application, mail VA Form 21P-527EZ to the VA Pension Intake Center, or take your application to your regional VA office.
The VA Aid and Attendance Benefit is a benefit added on top of the monthly Pension that can be used to offset the costs of care. Eligibility for this benefit is based on medical conditions, income, and assets. It can be used for anything that improves the vet’s quality of life. To apply, you can submit a VA Form 21-2680 to the pension management center or take it to your regional VA office.
Another option from the VA is disability compensation. This is for veterans who became disabled as a result of their service. To apply, mail VA Form 21-526EZ-ARE to the regional VA office or bring it in person. The form can also be filed online.
For in-depth information on VA benefits, be sure to check out the Illinois veterans’ benefits guide.
As the application process can be quite complex, it’s crucial to seek the assistance of experienced individuals when applying for these benefits. Veterans service officers can provide much-needed guidance. These experts help veterans and their families understand and apply for VA benefits. Whether you believe you qualify or not, reaching out to a veterans services officer should be your first step before beginning your application so you can make sure you don’t miss out on any benefits you might be eligible for. To get in touch with one, contact a VA office or veterans services organization (VSO).
Resources for Naperville veterans
Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs – Wheaton Office
421 N. County Farm Road, Room 2600-A
Wheaton, IL 60187
Phone: 630-690-9449
Email: Marcus.Woodward@illinois.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs – North Aurora Office
IDES Building
2 Smoketree Plaza
North Aurora, IL 60542
Phone: 217-836-6967
Email: Frank.Delatorre2@illinois.gov
Hours: Tuesday and Thursday, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs – Chicago OfficeGeorge Dunne County Building
69 W. Washington St., Suite 1620
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-814-2460
Email: Cynthia.Mckee@illinois.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
American Legion Post 43
10 W. Chicago Ave.
Naperville, IL 60540
Email: AmericanLegionPost43@naperlegion.org
Judd Kendall VFW Post 3873
908 W. Jackson Ave.
Naperville, IL 60540
Phone: 630-355-7664
Email: vfwpost3873@sbcglobal.net
VFW Department of Illinois
2122 W. Taylor St., Room 105
Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: 312-980-4284
Email: Derek.Giffin@va.gov
In Illinois, the Medicaid program is known as HealthChoice Illinois. It offers financial assistance for nursing home care, including covering the custodial costs, such as room and board.
However, for those seeking care in assisted living or memory care facilities, Medicaid does not cover the custodial cost component. home and community based services (HCBS) waivers can offset some medically necessary costs associated with assisted living or memory care, though they do not cover room and board, either. These waivers include, but are not limited to, the following:
For a comprehensive understanding of these programs and how to apply, you can refer to the Illinois Application for Benefits Eligibility website.
Navigating these programs can be challenging, given the complexities and specific eligibility criteria. Local resources such as AgeGuide — the Northeastern Illinois Area Agency on Aging — the long-term care ombudsman, and the home care ombudsman can provide invaluable assistance. These resources offer guidance on eligibility, application procedures, and strategies to optimize the benefits available. It’s important to reach out for support as you navigate the path to securing care.
Naperville resident Medicaid resources
HealthChoice Illinois
Phone: 877-912-8880
Email: hfs.webmaster@illinois.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
DHS Family Community Resource Center in DuPage County
1717 Park St., Suite 105
Naperville, IL 60563
Phone: 630-328-1000
Fax: 331-702-8935
AgeGuide
1910 S. Highland Ave., Suite 100
Lombard, IL, 60148
Phone: 630-293-5990
Fax: 630-293-7488
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
421 N. County Farm Road
Wheaton, IL 60187
Phone: 630-407-6500
Fax: 630-407-6501
Email: ITDOMB@dupageco.org or Trish.Niewoehner@dupageco.org
Illinois Home Care Ombudsman Program
Phone: 800-252-8966
Email: Aging.HCOProgram@illinois.gov
Medicare is a critical resource for seniors 65+ and certain individuals with specific disabilities, including those requiring skilled nursing, assisted living, or memory care. While Medicare does provide some coverage for skilled nursing home care, it’s crucial to note that this coverage is limited to a short-term basis. Coverage is not meant for long-term nursing home care.
Under Medicare Part A, coverage includes skilled nursing care in a skilled nursing facility under specific circumstances for a limited time. It does not, however, cover long-term or custodial care, such as bathing, dressing, and other activities of daily living, whether in a nursing home, assisted living, or memory care setting. However, it can assist with the cost of medically necessary in-home medical needs.
Illinois Medicare Savings Programs can assist eligible seniors with some out-of-pocket medical costs, such as premiums, co-insurance, and deductibles. Applications can be submitted through the Application for Benefits Eligibility website.
Applying for Medicare can be done through your local Social Security Administration office or online. However, understanding Medicare and all its parts, as well as applying for benefits, can be complex and challenging, which is why the Illinois Senior Health Insurance Program (SHIP) exists. SHIP, provided by the Illinois Department on Aging, offers free health insurance and benefits counseling to seniors so they can better understand and navigate the complexities of Medicare. The long-term care ombudsman is also a good resource.
One other program worth noting is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). PACE is a comprehensive program aiming to provide community-based health services for seniors who would otherwise require nursing home care. The Illinois PACE program will launch in June 2024.
Naperville resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration
7440 Providence Drive
Woodridge, IL 60517
Phone: 866-303-2724
Fax: 833-950-2770
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
DHS Family Community Resource Center in DuPage County
1717 Park St., Suite 105
Naperville, IL 60563
Phone: 630-328-1000
Fax: 331-702-8935
AgeGuide
1910 S. Highland Ave., Suite 100
Lombard, IL, 60148
Phone: 630-293-5990
Fax: 630-293-7488
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
421 N. County Farm Road
Wheaton, IL 60187
Phone: 630-407-6500
Fax: 630-407-6501
Email: ITDOMB@dupageco.org or Trish.Niewoehner@dupageco.org
SHIP
Phone: 800-252-8966
Email: aging.ship@illinois.gov
In Illinois, the laws and regulations governing nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and memory care facilities are designed to ensure high-quality care for all residents. It’s crucial to understand these regulations when exploring care options.
In Illinois, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and memory care facilities are required to be licensed. They are regulated and licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). This requirement is in place to ensure facilities adhere to state regulations and provide the highest quality of care to residents.
Nursing homes are also subject to federal regulations if they accept Medicare and Medicaid payments. Compliance with federal rules and regulations is assessed by IDPH, under a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Regular inspections are conducted by IDPH to evaluate the adequacy of each facility and its staff, equipment, policies, procedures, and finances. Illinois licensure surveys usually span three to four days, assessing more than 1,500 specific state and federal standards. These inspections include reviewing resident rights, access to care, activities, assessment and care plans, health care and dietary services, housekeeping, staffing, quality of care, and quality assurance.
The IDPH puts together quarterly reports of nursing home violators. The report lists facilities in violation of the state’s Nursing Home Care Act and the disciplinary actions they faced. You and your loved one can also research local nursing homes by utilizing Medicare’s provider search tool. You’ll also be able to find out more about the rights of nursing home residents and what protections they have.
For Naperville assisted living and memory care facilities, you may file a Freedom of Information Act Request in order to see inspection reports.
Illinois has specific staffing regulations in place for nursing homes. The Department of Public Health establishes minimum staffing ratios for each facility to specify the number of staff hours per resident. Staff-to-resident ratios include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, certified nurse assistants, psychiatric services rehabilitation aides, rehabilitation and therapy aides, psychiatric services rehabilitation coordinators, assistant directors of nursing, and a portion of the director of nurses’ and social services directors’ time.
Each resident of any senior living facility must have a comprehensive care plan developed with the participation of the resident and/or their guardian. This plan includes measurable objectives and timelines to meet the resident’s medical, nursing, mental, and psychosocial needs, identified in the resident’s comprehensive assessment.
Memory care facilities in Illinois fall under assisted living and have to adhere to the same rules and regulations. But additional regulations apply to ensure staff members are trained on how to provide care specifically to people with memory loss and the behaviors that go along with it. This specialized training ensures the safety of your loved ones because, for example, staff will know how to redirect when residents are agitated or try to wander.
Illinois Department of Public Health
122 S. Michigan Ave., Seventh and 20th Floors
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: 312-814-2793
69 W. Washington St., 35th Floor
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-814-5278
There are no COVID-19 regulations specific to skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, or memory care facilities in Naperville. DuPage County recommends following the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) guidelines to prevent the transmission of virus.
The CDC recommends being vaccinated and keeping up-to-date on boosters.
The CDC suggests proper ventilation be top of mind to ensure the prevention of the spread of COVID-19.
The CDC suggests wearing masks when in crowded areas, but it is not mandated.
Routine COVID-19 testing and access to personal protective equipment may be required to ensure residents’ safety.
Nursing homes, also known as skilled nursing facilities, provide a high level of 24/7 medical care to residents. While A Place for Mom does not partner with standalone nursing homes, we have assisted living and memory care partner communities that offer assistance with daily activities, medication management, and visiting health care professionals.
The right choice will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. No matter what those may be, Naperville offers a range of high-quality care facilities to choose from.
Facilities offering skilled nursing provide full-time care for those who require constant medical attention. Residents of these types of facilities typically have chronic conditions or short-term health needs that require ongoing medical management. At the assisted living and memory care facilities we partner with in Naperville, 84% have on-site nursing available, and all of them have visiting physical and occupational therapists, as well as podiatrists. Full medication management is available at nearly all of our partner facilities.
Assisted living is an excellent choice for seniors who need help with activities of daily living but don’t require constant medical attention. In Naperville, assisted living communities strive to balance independence with support, offering assistance with activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management. Nearly all our partner communities have an activity director who organizes programs to keep residents engaged and stimulated. These activities often include stretching classes, trivia games, barbecues, and picnics, all contributing to a vibrant community.
For seniors experiencing memory-related conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, memory care facilities offer a safe, supportive environment; in fact, 82% of our partners offer a secure community. These facilities provide a higher level of care compared to assisted living, with specialized staff trained to handle the unique challenges of residents with memory loss.
Most of our partner facilities in Naperville provide some aspect of memory care, focusing on creating routines that provide comfort and familiarity to residents. Regular activities often include memory-boosting games and exercises.
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Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Naperville
Median annual income for Naperville seniors 65 and older
Lauded for expertise in spinal fusion surgeries and heart care, Edward Hospital ranks among the top medical facilities in Illinois.
From general surgery to internal medicine, this hospital is lauded for hip and knee replacements because of its high success rates. It also excels in heart failure treatments.
This hospital is the closest Veterans Administration medical center to Naperville. It specializes in exceptional mental health care but also provides a wide array of medical services to veterans.
Nursing homes are designed for seniors who require around-the-clock medical care and supervision. Given the level of care required for residents, those in nursing homes typically would not use public transit without being accompanied by a caregiver.
A Place for Mom does not partner with nursing homes in Naperville. However, 66% of our partner assisted living and memory care facilities in Naperville offer complimentary transportation services, while 58% provide these services at an additional cost. These services ensure safe, convenient transport for residents for their medical appointments and other necessary trips.
For seniors in assisted living facilities, having access to reliable transportation can be crucial for maintaining a level of independence. In Naperville, many assisted living facilities include transportation in their services, understanding that safe, reliable transit is a key part of helping residents maintain their connection to the community.
Transportation is a critical service for those in memory care units, whether it’s providing access to a much-needed medical appointment or giving residents opportunities to attend group outings. Given the unique needs and challenges of seniors with memory-related conditions, secure and supervised transportation is often provided by memory care facilities, whether it’s complimentary or provided at cost.
The city operates the Metra train system that connects Naperville to Aurora and Chicago. The Pace bus service is also available, offering a standard city-sponsored bus loop with ADA-compliant vehicles.
Senior residents in Naperville have access to Ride Assist Naperville (RAN), a specialized private transportation service designed specifically for individuals aged 60 and above who need transportation to medical appointments. The dedicated volunteer drivers of RAN provide comprehensive assistance throughout the entire transportation process, from pickup to drop-off, ensuring a personalized and supportive experience to bring peace of mind to seniors and their loved ones.
For seniors and those with qualifying disabilities, the city offers the Ride DuPage program. This lower-cost public transit system requires a specific registration process and charges a base fee with additional per-mile charges. The first companion rider is free of charge, a crucial benefit for individuals in nursing homes, assisted living, or memory care who require the assistance of a family member or caregiver.
The Pace paratransit service caters specifically to riders with physical and cognitive disabilities, staffing its vehicles with drivers who are trained to handle emergencies.
Nursing homes, assisted living communities, and memory care facilities in Naperville feature programs and events tailored to their residents. For instance, on-site activities such as group games, art classes, and musical performances are common. These activities are designed to engage residents physically and mentally, fostering a sense of community.
There are also a plethora of activities out in the community. From cultural performances to recreational events, Naperville offers an array of activities and attractions that seniors and their visiting family members and friends can enjoy if they’d like a day out.
History buffs might enjoy visiting the Naper Settlement. This 13-acre museum gives guests the opportunity to travel through time to learn about the city’s heritage. There are 30 preserved historic buildings visitors can explore while learning from knowledgeable — and costumed — guides. Seniors who are 62 and older can enjoy discounted tickets: $10 from May through October and just $5 from November through April. What’s more, the Naper Settlement is an accessible option for those with limited mobility. There are two non-motorized wheelchairs available at no additional charge that can be checked out from the lobby desk. Many of the historic buildings have lifts and/or ramps, and the visitor center features accessible restrooms and an elevator. Of course, some of the historic buildings have limited accessibility, but the museum provides photo tour albums of the second floors of several of these buildings. To request a sign language interpreter, you can contact the museum with at least 30 days’ notice. For any other accessibility requests, you can call 630-420-6010 with at least four days’ notice.
For those who are more interested in the arts, Singing for Seniors and the Senior Suburban Orchestra provide ample opportunities for seniors to continue to hone their craft and socialize with other seniors who have a shared passion for music. Plus, Singing for Seniors offers transportation if needed.
Recreational opportunities abound in Naperville, including golfing, senior kung fu, and bingo. For more leisurely options, the downtown area offers shopping, dining, and scheduled events including wine walks and car shows. Or you can just take in the riverfront views.
Encore Village of Schaumburg, a CCRC, Encore at South Barrington and Brookdale Des Plaines are the top-rated Nursing Homes facilities near Naperville, IL. 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 Naperville is $5,793 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
City of Naperville. (2022). Awards and Recognitions.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101). American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S2101). American Community Survey.
Healthgrades. (2023). Edward Hospital – Main Campus.
Healthgrades. (2023). Rush Copley Medical Center.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2023). Edward Hines Junior Hospital.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
City of Naperville. (2022). Awards and Recognitions.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101). American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S2101). American Community Survey.
Healthgrades. (2023). Edward Hospital – Main Campus.
Healthgrades. (2023). Rush Copley Medical Center.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2023). Edward Hines Junior Hospital.