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 2026 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 2026 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 2026 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 239 communities
Last Updated: 9/19/26
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Photo of Heartland Country Village
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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 Cambridge Courts
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Cambridge Court is really a one of a kind place. My aunt has lived there for over 3 years and I can't express my gratitude to Joy and the staff at Cambridge Court. Every time I visit my aunt they are...
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 Larson House
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The staff was friendly and really knew what they were doing. Very satisfied. Would give a very positive rating.
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.
Larson House in Columbus, Wisconsin is an assisted living center with one and two bedroom apartments that provides quality care to the elderly. They accept all kinds of payment for insurance including Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurances. Each room or suite has many amenities. We have a 24...
Photo of St. Clare Friedensheim
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My mom was at the facility for 1 year it was an amazing experience for her. The caring staff always went above and beyond. They made my mom feel as an important member of the family. Everyone there was...
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.
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The reason why I picked this community is that my Grandma actually stayed here and it is close to my mom’s home. My Mother is so happy here and she is doing well. The staff is so nice and the nurses have...
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.
Glenwood at Mulberry Glenwood at Mulberry is an attractive assisted living community surrounded by a gorgeous wooded area. Located in Whitewater, Wisconsin, the residence provides assisted living services, while allowing residents to remain independent. Located near the University of Wisconsin...
Photo of CrestRidge Assisted Living
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I am so pleased with Crestridge Assisted Living as a wonderful place for my mother to spend her older years! She has now been there for over a year. She attends as many of the twice daily activities as she...
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.
Photo of Sun Valley
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We Could Not Of Done This Emotional Rollercoaster Of Emotions Without Every Staff Currently And Not Currently. [name removed] You Are A Godsend And Truely Amazing And I Can Honestly Say Your Heart Of Gold...
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.
Photo of Main Street Senior Living
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I do not have anything negative to say about this community. The staff team make themselves available when I call if I have questions. My mother was very reluctant to go to assisted living, however they made...
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.
Oregon, Wisconsin is home to Main Street Quarters Assisted Living residence. According to Money magazine, the residence is located in one of the best places to live. Surrounded by historical buildings and homes, the residence is conveniently located close to downtown and only twenty minutes from...
Photo of Riverwalk Senior Living
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It's a newer, clean facility that offers the basics. Expected activities are offered (bingo, crafts, seasonal events, etc.). The 'common areas' are basic, tv/sofas, simple coffee bar, dining area, a...
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.
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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.
Taking care of your loved ones in their twilight years is a lot easier thanks to the helping hands at Marvin's Hands, LLC, an assisted care facility located on East Clark Street in Brandon, Wisconsin. This 12-unit facility believes in providing the best care for seniors and building programs that...
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Photo of Ridgestone Terrace RCAC and The Gardens at RidgeStone Memory CBRF
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My 94 year old father-in-law, [name removed], lived in assisted living at Ridgestone Terrace (Elkhorn) for 2 years. I visited every assisted living facility within a 50 mile radius and chose Ridgestone. We...
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.
RidgeStone Terrace Assisted Living is a Residential Care Apartment Complex, located in Elkhorn, Wisconsin offering up to 28 hours of service per week to each resident with their activities of daily living in a beautiful homelike setting.  Assistance is based on each resident's...
Photo of Beloit Senior Living
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My parents are in Independent Living there. I appreciate the staff. My parents are happy there. I think it is a good place. The food is not good, my dad complains about it every day. The room sizes are good....
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.
Beloit Senior Living is a Assisted Living facility that opened August 2016 in Beloit, WI. The company has been providing quality assisted living and memory care to seniors for over 15 years at our other locations in Milton, WI and Waterford, WI. We are very excited to provide quality services to...
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I’ve been living here a short time, but I can’t imagine a better home! The staff is compassionate and caring. The administrator frequently works the floor right along with caregivers. She is a blessing! ...
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.
Matthews of Horicon is a 30 bed RCAC (Residential Care Apartment Complex)/Assisted Living community. We offer 3 styles of studio apartments, Small, Medium and Large units. All units have their own private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and private patio/balconies. We provide 3 meals per day in the...
Photo of Willows Nursing and Rehab Ctr
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My dad was recently here for rehab. Their rehab is very good. The therapist has been there for a long time. However, my dad got the wrong medication when I was actually sitting in the room. He took and I...
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.
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My dad loves living at Rock Haven. The food is good and they offer a variety of choices. His health has improved and he has even gained some weight. The caregivers are wonderful. This community offers long...
Provides: Assisted Living
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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.
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Very, demanding and challenging, and always put the patients loves ones safe and comfortable. Helping them throughout the day with daily activities and fun games.
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.
Prairie Ridge Beaver Dam was made with you in mind. This is a special place where we celebrate your accomplishments, your family and your life. It's where seniors can enjoy more years in their lives and more life in their years. You're invited to join us!
Photo of Saint Mary's Care Ctr
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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, 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.
Photo of Haack's Tendercare, Inc.
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We have had an excellent experience since my mothers move to this community. Everything is working out very well since her move here. She may not like because it is not home, but I know she is in good hands....
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 Serenity Homes - Stoughton
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My father is in late stages of Alzheimer's and he is at the Serenity Homes. The value is great! That's one of the reasons we moved him there. I don't know how many bed there are, maybe 20 or 15. At this...
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.
Encore is nationally recognized for our progressive approach to Alzheimer's care, known as the Rediscovery ™ program. Distinctly different from other settings, we've created an environment that is both calming and understandable to those with Alzheimer's and other dementias. Rediscovery...
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Nursing Homes
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.
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.
Tivoli is a community within our community.Tivoli is an exceptional residential facility. It is a place with modern and comfortable amenities for residents and visitors alike. Built in late 2010, each Tivoli community within features special staff, services and amenities to meet residents'...
Photo of Cedar Crest
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
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.
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 Golden Living Center Beaver Dam
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Beautiful apartments, good food, health care when needed, plenty of activities, send service when needed, bus rides to and from doctors appointments.
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.
Nursing homes are many things to many people. Whatever your needs, our goal is to provide compassionate nursing care in a clean, comfortable setting where you will feel at home. Individualized attention begins as soon as you are admitted, and our skilled nurses meet with you regularly to discuss...
Photo of Highview In the Woodlands
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There were lots of nurses on staff but it was costing a lot of money. There were so many people that if my dad was in the sitting area it would be wall to wall people so that you couldn't hardly get a...
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.
Photo of The Meadows Assisted Living
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Things are going pretty good since my mother moved into this community. They had a Christmas party last week, and it was very nice. From visiting on regular basis, I've noticed that the facility is very nice...
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.
The Meadows Assisted Living provides quality living solutions to seniors in south central Wisconsin. The Meadows offers assisted living and memory care services to seniors who want to remain independent but need extra attention and care in their day-to-day lives. Located in the...

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

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.

Nursing homes costs in Madison, WI, vs. state and national averages

Madison, WI
$6,237/mo
U.S. national average
$5,847/mo

Nursing homes costs in Madison, WI, vs. other senior living options

$6,926/mo
Nursing Homes
$6,237/mo

Nursing homes costs in Madison, WI, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$5,952/mo
Private
$6,285/mo

Senior living costs in Madison vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 4 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Madison, WI
Column state: Wisconsin
Column national: U.S.
Community typeMadison, WIWisconsinU.S.
Nursing Homes$6,237/mo$6,162/mo$5,847/mo
Assisted Living$6,353/mo$5,889/mo$5,830/mo
Memory Care$6,926/mo$7,352/mo$6,999/mo
Independent Living$3,605/mo$3,028/mo$3,520/mo
Nursing Homes
Madison, WI:$6,237/mo
Wisconsin:$6,162/mo
U.S.:$5,847/mo
Assisted Living
Madison, WI:$6,353/mo
Wisconsin:$5,889/mo
U.S.:$5,830/mo
Memory Care
Madison, WI:$6,926/mo
Wisconsin:$7,352/mo
U.S.:$6,999/mo
Independent Living
Madison, WI:$3,605/mo
Wisconsin:$3,028/mo
U.S.:$3,520/mo
Table showing 5 of 4 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 4 items. Click to show less.

Nursing homes costs in Madison, WI, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly nursing homes 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

Nursing homes cost trends in Madison, WI

The table below shows how monthly nursing homes 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
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Madison, WI$6,608/mo$6,483/mo+1.9%
Wisconsin$6,343/mo$6,152/mo+3.1%
National$6,098/mo$5,866/mo+4.0%
Madison, WI
2024 average cost:$6,608/mo
2023 average cost:$6,483/mo
Percent change:+1.9%
Wisconsin
2024 average cost:$6,343/mo
2023 average cost:$6,152/mo
Percent change:+3.1%
National
2024 average cost:$6,098/mo
2023 average cost:$5,866/mo
Percent change:+4.0%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

What families are saying about nursing homes in Madison

Recent reviews for nursing homes 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 ...
Read more

Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge in Madison, WI

4.0
The week day staff is compassionate and well trained and employed by Oakwood. The weekend staff is hired from an agency and the care and compassion is lacking. They are working on fixing this but claim there are not enough people interested in this type of work.

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 ...
Read more

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:

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.

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.

Madison nursing homes services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Madison nursing homes 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 nursing homes

Nursing homes communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of nursing homes partners in Madison that offer these care services compared to the percentage of partners that offer them nationally.
Madison, WINational
Full medication management
Full medication management
56.5%
2.5%
Doctor on call
Doctor on call
13.4%
9.7%
24-Hour awake staff
24-Hour awake staff
90.8%
23.7%
Diabetic care
Diabetic care
90.8%
24%
*Visiting health care professionals
*Visiting health care professionals
63.6%
10%
Home care agency on-site
Home care agency on-site
23%
0.8%
Non-ambulatory care
Non-ambulatory care
91.6%
20.4%
Respite or short term stays
Respite or short term stays
56.9%
6.9%
Hospice available on-site
Hospice available on-site
65.3%
17.5%
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 nursing homes

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 Nursing Homes partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.
Madison, WINational
Dementia behaviors care
Dementia behaviors care
52.7%
4%
Specialized memory care training for staff
Specialized memory care training for staff
28.5%
0.3%
Secured community and/or wander guard
Secured community and/or wander guard
44.4%
5.5%
Memory care only community
Memory care only community
25.5%
1.2%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Madison nursing homes

Nursing homes 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
Nutritionist / dietician
11.3%
0.6%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
31.8%
1.4%
No sugar
No sugar
30.1%
1.4%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
31.8%
3.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Madison nursing homes

Our nursing homes 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
Professional chef
16.3%
0.2%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
28.5%
0.5%
Room service
Room service
21.8%
0.3%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
11.3%
0.7%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Madison nursing homes

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered nursing homes communities in Madison offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Madison, WINational
Activity director
Activity director
33.5%
0.4%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
24.3%
0.3%
Community service programs
Community service programs
16.3%
0.3%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
56.9%
6.5%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
45.2%
0.5%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
54.8%
6.6%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
31.4%
0.4%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
27.2%
0.3%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
24.7%
0.3%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
37.7%
0.4%
Live performances
Live performances
42.3%
0.4%
Dances
Dances
19.7%
0.2%
Fitness center
Fitness center
13%
0.3%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
38.9%
0.4%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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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

The Waterford at Fitchburg, Ridge at Madison and Eden Vista Madison 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 $6,237 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.