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

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Not many midsize U.S. cities provide the wide variety of perks that Wisconsin’s state capital has to offer. With its scenic lakefronts, the state’s largest university, and array of engaging cultural and historical attractions, it’s no surprise that Madison is known as the 24th-best major city for retirees.

Madison’s assisted living communities offer long-term living options for seniors as well as individualized care from trained professionals. Although many assisted living residents are somewhat active individuals, they may require help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as getting dressed or bathing. Besides this assistance with everyday activities, seniors in Madison’s assisted living communities will have access to a variety of helpful services and activities. These include medication management, facility trips and outings, special dietary options, and more — ensuring residents have highly convenient living arrangements tailored to their needs.

In this guide, A Place for Mom lists partner facilities in Madison and discusses payment and support options, local health care options, transportation information, and the city’s sights and sounds.

Madison Assisted Living Facilities | 1039 Reviews

Showing 71 communities
Last Updated: 10/25/24
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Best of Senior Living

The highest-rated senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care and home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top reviewed senior care providers nationwide based on reviews submitted by residents and families.

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Photo of The Waterford at FitchburgCommunity card badge
2020 Photos available
88 Floor plans available
9.6
Review score
114 reviews
9.6
Review score
114 reviews
5 star
54%
4 star
32%
3 star
7%
2 star
4%
1 star
3%
See all reviews
My husband and I have lived here now for 15 months. All the residents seem happy and we enjoy being with people our own age. We appreciate the free transportation they give us to our many clinic appointment...
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.
Get to know the warm, friendly environment at The Waterford at Fitchburg and you'll see how thoughtful amenities and world-class services come together in harmony. Residents at our Independent Living and Assisted Living community in Fitchburg, WI, are afforded the privacy and freedom to live a...
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Photo of The Ridge at MadisonCommunity card badge
1111 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
9.1
Review score
60 reviews
9.1
Review score
60 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
23%
3 star
15%
2 star
7%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
my mother has been a resident for about 4-5 years. She has been going very well since her move to the larger common are and with mom's contact with others. There have been challenges, however they have been...
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.
At The Ridge, our mission is simple: creating environments where moments of joy, independence and wellness are the focus each and every day. We have a Med Staff on site 24 hours a day, dedicated to your health, safety and well-being. Located in Fitchburg, we serve all of Madison and the...
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Photo of Timberwood Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care
1414 Photos available
9.0
Review score
7 reviews
9.0
Review score
7 reviews
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I would highly recommend the Timberwood Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care community. Staff is very friendly and helpful. Place is clean. My Mom is very well taken care of. The place now has a dog,...
Provides: Memory Care, Residential Care Home
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.
Care Homes: Residential 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.
Timberwood Lodge Assisted Living is a new Assisted Living & Memory Care Community in the Madison, WI area that offers an intimate setting. Located in a residential area (Country Grove Neighborhood), Timberwood Lodge was opened in 2018 - within walking distance of restaurants, pharmacies, and...
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Photo of Brookdale Madison West
1717 Photos available
99 Floor plans available
8.7
Review score
88 reviews
8.7
Review score
88 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
28%
3 star
14%
2 star
3%
1 star
2%
See all reviews
Overall we are becoming happier with my moms care at Brookdale. [name removed] the interim Director is a breath of fresh air! We have seen quite the improvements in a short period of time and It’s nice to...
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.
A Beautiful Place to Call HomeImagine trading in your household chores and responsibilities for a lifestyle rich in quality friendships, exciting activities and personalized care. Wouldn’t that be the dream?Here at our assisted living and memory care community in Madison, Wisconsin, your dreams...
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Photo of Charter Senior Living of Madison
2525 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
8.7
Review score
13 reviews
8.7
Review score
13 reviews
5 star
38%
4 star
47%
3 star
15%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
This facility has a very caring staff, a capable administrative team, and is an excellent quality facility. The needs of my sister-in-law were fully met. I would highly recommend this community for any...
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.
Charter Senior Living of Madison provides truly person-directed care, taking the time to know and work with each resident as an individual and providing them with care that’s as unique as they are. In Assisted Living, our caring, compassionate staff, first-rate amenities, new community and...
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Photo of Coventry Village
2020 Photos available
8.0
Review score
18 reviews
8.0
Review score
18 reviews
5 star
22%
4 star
33%
3 star
28%
2 star
6%
1 star
11%
See all reviews
Coventry Village is a nice place, beautifully appointed. The staff seemed to be over-worked. Sometimes it would take an hour for someone to come after the call button was pushed. My mother was not a...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to the award-winning Sebring Assisted Care and Sebring Gardens Memory Care Residences! Sebring Assisted Care Residence is an integral part of Coventry Village, Madison's premier west-side retirement community.Coventry Village is dedicated to enabling each resident to maximize their...
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Photo of Heritage Monona
2525 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
8.0
Review score
71 reviews
8.0
Review score
71 reviews
5 star
35%
4 star
39%
3 star
18%
2 star
4%
1 star
4%
See all reviews
Actually, my folks moved the end of August because my Mom needed memory care and they did not have a unit in memory care that would fit 2 people. Med passers and activities staff were very friendly. They...
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.
Within the doors of Heritage Monona, you'll find a warm and gentle community where daily assistance is provided with love and the utmost respect for the personal integrity of our residents. Our compassionate staff has been specially selected and carefully trained to serve with an open heart and a...
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Photo of Courtyard at Fitchburg
1818 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Courtyard at Fitchburg consists of two stand-alone communities on our campus. A CBRF Assisted Living and a Memory care. The communities have towering windows overlooking McKee Farms Park which give our residents spectacular nature views and a place to safely take walks. Our memory care...
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Photo of BrightStar Senior Living of Madison
1515 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
8.0
Review score
17 reviews
8.0
Review score
17 reviews
5 star
59%
4 star
35%
3 star
6%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
The common areas, dining, etc. was very clean. The cleanliness of my loved one's apartment fell a little bit short of our expectations. The staff are friendly, engaging, and they treat the residents as...
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.
BrightStar Senior Living is an assisted living community in the welcoming, scenic city of Madison, Dane County, Wisconsin. Our beautiful community is centrally located in a quiet residential area near the West Beltline Highway, providing easy access to area attractions and the nearby cities of...
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Photo of All Saints Assisted Living
11 Photo available
8.0
Review score
6 reviews
8.0
Review score
6 reviews
5 star
83%
4 star
17%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
A room opened up and so we moved her. All Saints has a very well-established and robust memory program. Mom seems to be happy there. These retirement communities are super expensive. That said, All Saints...
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.
All Saints Assisted Living and Memory Care offers seniors Spirited Community Living! The residence is part of the All Saints Neighborhood, which offers living options like cottages, condos and apartments for those 55 and better. As a person's needs change, the assisted living residence has...
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Photo of Azura Memory Care of StoughtonCommunity card badge
1616 Photos available
9.9
Review score
77 reviews
9.9
Review score
77 reviews
5 star
82%
4 star
17%
3 star
1%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
All five stars for [name removed] and the team who work at Azura. They all have expert knowledge about writing and reading about dementia.
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.
Transforming the Culture of Memory CareProviding compassionate care begins with a secure, warm setting. When people with memory loss feel at home, they respond more positively and interact more with others.Our relationship-based care philosophy called MOSAIC recognizes each person is an...
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Photo of Charter Senior Living of Verona
1111 Photos available
9.2
Review score
30 reviews
9.2
Review score
30 reviews
5 star
43%
4 star
17%
3 star
17%
2 star
10%
1 star
13%
See all reviews
My brother was warmly welcomed into the community and he’s receiving the care he needs. He has significant health conditions and the staff is taking good care of him. He has repeatedly told me that he’s...
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.
Charter Senior Living of Verona is a senior living community located in Verona, Dane County, Wisconsin, a short drive southwest of Madison. The community features apartment-style living designed to offer residents a high degree of comfort and independence, all while they benefit from the support...
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Photo of Brookdale Middleton Stonefield
77 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
9.1
Review score
37 reviews
9.1
Review score
37 reviews
5 star
51%
4 star
27%
3 star
14%
2 star
0%
1 star
8%
See all reviews
All fives for all categories. We had a very short stay at Brookdale Middleton, but the staff was fantastic with our loved one.
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.
Built for Comfort and FamiliarityRegardless of where your family member is on life’s journey, they deserve to enjoy their golden years surrounded by comfort, peace and beauty. If they join us at our warm and welcoming memory care community in Middleton, Wisconsin, that is precisely the kind of...
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Photo of Cardinal View Senior Living
88 Photos available
8.9
Review score
14 reviews
8.9
Review score
14 reviews
5 star
79%
4 star
0%
3 star
14%
2 star
7%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
The staff at Cardinal View Senior Living are amazing! My loved one's room is cleaned once a week and the facility is also clean. Communication with the family is great. The move in process went very smooth....
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.
See what life can be like at Cardinal View Senior Living. From our 5-Star restaurant-style dining room to our full theater, everyday is a gift waiting to be unwrapped.We train our staff to cater to your every need, providing an experience that seamlessly blends comfort, convenience, and care. Our...
Photo of Talamore Sun Prairie
2222 Photos available
Pricing promotion
8.7
Review score
19 reviews
8.7
Review score
19 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
26%
3 star
11%
2 star
5%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
The facility is very clean. Staffing is all in house no travelers. Food I think is an issue with all facilities lots of preprocessed and not much variety. The actives are very good there is someone there...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
At Talamore Senior Living our engaging environment is thoughtfully designed to enrich the rhythms of our residents' lives. We focus on fostering meaningful relationships, creating engaging experiences, and providing exceptional care.Our brand new community is designed to be welcoming for...
Photo of Homestead Living, Inc.
1111 Photos available
8.5
Review score
13 reviews
8.5
Review score
13 reviews
5 star
54%
4 star
15%
3 star
15%
2 star
8%
1 star
8%
See all reviews
Homestead has been the answer to our prayers when it came time for my Mother to leave her home. We had her in a couple of other places before arriving here. This environment is more homelike, set up in a way...
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.
Homestead Living is a family owned and operated business that has been serving Dane County's Memory Care needs for 25 years. We are located in the village of Waunakee, WI. The purpose of Homestead Living is to provide a caring place for persons living with Alzheimer's or other dementias. ...
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Photo of Sienna Crest - Waunakee
11 Photo available
8.0
Review score
10 reviews
8.0
Review score
10 reviews
5 star
60%
4 star
30%
3 star
10%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
They were AMAZING. My mom was not here very long, but they really treated her like their own. A few of the staff members cried just as hard as we did when she passed away. We knew that if for some reason...
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.
Sienna Crest of Waunakee is a full service facility located in a small town of the heartland. We have caring staff with decades of combined experience that will treat your family like their own. Our friendly residents will welcome your loved one during our group activities and outings. Sienna...
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Photo of The Koselig House
1111 Photos available
7.9
Review score
24 reviews
7.9
Review score
24 reviews
5 star
37%
4 star
13%
3 star
17%
2 star
4%
1 star
29%
See all reviews
It's a beautiful facility and very clean. I liked the wide hallways and open spaces. The bathroom was very accessible. I liked the country setting with southern exposure. The head chef had been in the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Koselig House Assisted Living and Memory CareNamed in honor of our owner's beloved Grandmother Marion, The Koselig House is the premiere provider of Assisted Living and Memory Care in DeForest, Wisconsin. Our team provides round-the-clock specialized care for seniors looking for assistance...
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Photo of Oak Park Place Madison
1717 Photos available
7.7
Review score
55 reviews
7.7
Review score
55 reviews
5 star
41%
4 star
35%
3 star
15%
2 star
4%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
I am very sure that working on a memory care unit is extremely difficult for staff. Staff have to be mind readers with the patience of a saint when dealing with folks with dementia who can be violent, angry,...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to Oak Park Place! Located on Madison's far east side, Oak Park Place offers options beyond traditional senior living for the lifestyle you or your loved one deserve. Imagine an all-inclusive list of amenities and services that support a carefree, independent way of life for residents...
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Photo of Bay Harbor Memory Care and Assisted Living of Madison
55 Photos available
7.4
Review score
10 reviews
7.4
Review score
10 reviews
5 star
10%
4 star
40%
3 star
30%
2 star
20%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My loved one is currently a resident at Tennyson Retirement Living. Overall, the experience has been positive so far. Like everyone else, they have staffing challenges. But there seems to be some steadiness...
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.
See details
Photo of Madison Pointe Senior Living
1212 Photos available
7.2
Review score
29 reviews
7.2
Review score
29 reviews
5 star
52%
4 star
31%
3 star
3%
2 star
7%
1 star
7%
See all reviews
The staff is very patient and friendly to the residents. They're very good at communication with me as well. The food is good, and they're good about serving a fair amount of fruits and vegetables. A...
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.
At Madison Pointe Senior Living, we strive to provide each of our residents a caring, nurturing environment with dignified and respectful services at a special place that they are proud to call 'home'. We understand there is no greater comfort in life than being around people who care. Our team...
Photo of Capitol Lakes Terraces
88 Photos available
1.0
Review score
2 reviews
1.0
Review score
2 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
50%
See all reviews
The staff there at Capitol Lakes Terraces are super! They are very welcoming, very caring, and very well organized. Their staff is very well trained and they really care and do a great job. The only...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Capitol Lakes Terraces is an assisted living community located in the heart of the city of Madison, Dane County, Wisconsin. Surrounded on both the north and south by Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, respectively, residents of Capitol Lakes Terraces enjoy one of the best views in the city, no matter...
Photo of Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale
88 Photos available
7.0
Review score
1 review
7.0
Review score
1 review
5 star
0%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My parents really enjoy Renaissance place.
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.
Located in the Hill Farms neighborhood on Madison's West Side, Renaissance Senior Living of Hilldale offers Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care. We strive to provide a lifestyle that promotes independence and the opportunity to live life at its fullest!Strategically designed with...
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Photo of Oak Park Place Madison West Nakoma
33 Photos available
5.2
Review score
19 reviews
5.2
Review score
19 reviews
5 star
5%
4 star
11%
3 star
32%
2 star
5%
1 star
47%
See all reviews
What we like the most about the Oak Park Place is that it is very welcoming and the staff members are so friendly. My brother is very happy there. He is enjoying the community and other residents who live...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
See details
Photo of Cottages of Madison
77 Photos available
5 star
67%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
33%
See all reviews
When we were looking for a new place to move my mom, cost was a factor. We really liked this community. Her apartment is in the remodeled wing and it is supposed to have extra staff available for the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Cottages of Madison, in operation for more than 20 years, offers CBRF-assisted living, licensed for Alzheimer’s, dementia and related neurological diagnoses.Our warm, welcoming, secure community has the perfect balance of private and public community living space, making it quaint, functional...
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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 assisted living in the Madison area

The average cost of our Madison partner assisted living facilities is $6,181 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[02] This price includes service fees, add-ons, and care costs, but please note that individual costs may vary based on a resident’s chosen floor plan and additional services.

This monthly fee paid by assisted living residents in Madison may cover the following:[02]

• Room and board
• 24-hour care and assistance
• Housekeeping
• Laundry
• Maintenance and repairs to living spaces
• Healthy meals
• Community amenities and on-site activities

The following represent baseline fees for assisted living facilities across the greater Madison area and don’t account for additional expenses.

Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Madison, WI vs. nearby cities

Madison, WI
$4,527/mo

Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Madison, WI vs. the state and national average

Madison, WI
$4,527/mo
U.S. national average
$4,792/mo

Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Madison vs. other types of senior living

Assisted Living
$4,527/mo
$4,673/mo

Median monthly costs of Assisted Living in Madison, WI by room type

Semi-Private
$5,840/mo
Private
$5,500/mo
Studio
$5,689/mo
1 Bedroom
$5,632/mo
2 Bedroom
$5,872/mo

Average cost of Assisted Living in Madison over time

Madison, WIWI stateNational

What families are saying about assisted living in Madison

Recent reviews for assisted living in Madison

Brookdale Middleton Century Avenue

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

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

5.0
My grandmother loves The Ridge at Madison! My visits are always uplifting. Staff is informative, compassionate, and empathic to my grandma's needs. She tells me every visit how she feels at home and welcomed there! Management takes a team approach with staff to effectively engage them in ...
Read more

Reviews mention these favorite features of communities

Understaffed facilities. Several reviews mention the shortage of staff in various senior living communities, resulting in inconsistent care and long wait times for assistance. At Heritage Middleton, Heritage Middleton, the lack of a consistent leader and adequate staffing leads to challenges in addressing residents' n ...
Read more
Friendly and caring staff. Numerous reviews praise the kindness and attentiveness of staff members in different communities, such as at Brookdale Madison West, where staff members are described as caring and helpful. At Cardinal View Senior Living, the rooftop restaurant/lounge staff were commended for their hospitali ...
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Variety of activities and events. Residents enjoy the diverse range of activities offered at various senior living communities. For instance, at Cardinal View Senior Living, activities like jewelry making, card playing, and movie nights keep residents engaged. At Sienna Crest - Waunakee, the activity director organized fun a ...
Read more
Well-maintained facilities. Some reviews highlight the cleanliness and upkeep of common areas and private rooms in different communities, such as at Madison Pointe Senior Living, where the carpets in the common areas are praised for being clean despite their appearance. At Talamore Sun Prairie, the apartment was noted ...
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Clear communication between staff and families. Families appreciate the open communication between staff and themselves, allowing for informed decision making and addressing any concerns. At Brookdale Madison West, staff were described as open-door policy and kept family members informed about their loved one's care. At Eden Vista Madison ...
Read more
Delicious and varied meals. Quality meals and dining experiences are mentioned as key factors in overall satisfaction with various senior living communities. At Brookdale Madison West, staff accommodate dietary restrictions and individual preferences to make mealtimes enjoyable for residents. At The Waterford at Fitchbu ...
Read more
AI generated from the text of family reviews

Madison review score based on 212 family reviews

6.6
Review score70 facilities212 reviewsWrite a review
This proprietary review score is based on 212 reviews of 70 Madison assisted living 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 assisted living residents and family members rate assisted living 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

6.6
Madison, WI70 facilities
6.8
Maple Bluff, WI91 facilities
6.6
Shorewood Hills, WI68 facilities

Review subcategories for Madison assisted living

When assisted living 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 212 reviews of 70 Madison assisted living communities. This chart helps you compare Madison resident and family assisted living 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
4.0
4.5
Friendliness
4.1
4.6
Care services
3.3
4.2
Staff
4.0
4.5
Meals & dining
3.5
4.1
Activities
3.6
4.1
Value for cost*
3.4
4.1
0.01.02.03.04.05.0
*Learn more about cost details

How people pay for assisted living in Madison

When you’re paying for assisted living in Madison, you have both private and public funding options at your disposal — and many families rely on a mixture of both to fund a loved one’s stay. Payment options include private funding, assistance from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), or Medicare and Medicaid coverage.

Here, we’ll run through the specifics of each option to help you discover what applies to your situation.

Private pay methods in Madison

Whether you’ve amassed the savings needed to pay for an assisted living stay in Madison or have family members willing to help out, private payment options are one way to foot the bill. Overall, personal payment can be one of the least complicated and most direct ways to pay for assisted living stays.

A healthy personal checking or savings account is a solid start. However, if a senior collects Social Security benefits or a pension, that’s another helpful financing stream. Don’t forget to look into investment portfolios or relevant insurance policies as well.

Here are some other methods you can explore if you’re looking to pay for an assisted living stay through private methods:

VA benefits for assisted living in Madison
0

Approximately 9,689 veterans live in Madison, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

About 26% of Madison veterans are 75 or older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Prospective assisted living residents who have served in the military — as well as their spouses — could consider VA-provided benefits when looking into how to pay for assisted living.
Consider the following resources:

• The VA Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit is an especially useful benefit for veterans, as it can boost funding to their Veterans Pension that they could then use to offset costs at assisted living communities.{{citation:4}
• Wisconsin also offers a Military Retirement Benefits Exemption that ensures veterans’ benefits aren’t taxed by the state. Veterans can apply these savings to their monthly fees at assisted living facilities.
• The Dane County Veterans Services Office and their trained representatives can help you determine if you qualify for any VA benefits and help you with the application process.
• The Veterans of Foreign Wars Department of Wisconsin, Veterans of Foreign Wars Day Post, and the American Legion are good resources for additional information. It’s always worth reaching out to check into all potential options and to receive benefit counseling and advocacy during the application process.

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 assisted living

Wisconsin Medicaid is the state’s health insurance program for seniors who have a lower income. Many seniors who have exhausted their private savings may become Medicaid recipients.

While it does not pay for room and board, Wisconsin’s Medicaid program does cover care within assisted living facilities via waivers from Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) programs. These waivers enable seniors to receive care services while remaining in the community of their choice. To get coverage for assisted living services in Wisconsin, recipients’ annual household finances must fall below the Medicaid threshold: $19,392 for one person and $26,228 for two.[05]

Additionally, recipients must require help with activities of daily living such as the following:

  • Getting dressed
  • Bathing
  • Toileting

Alternatively, they may need assistance with instrumental activities of daily living such as the following:

  • Using a phone
  • Managing finances
  • Taking medication

The specific services Wisconsin Medicaid will cover within assisted living facilities can vary depending on the recipient’s needs and the HCBS waiver they’re using.

For seniors 65 or older in need of income-based prescription assistance, SeniorCare is available for just $30 a year. Interested applicants can sign up the month of their 65th birthday or after.

Those interested in applying for Wisconsin Medicaid can review the state’s eligibility handbook for application details. Besides this, the Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long-Term Care, its Ombudsman Program, and the local Area Agency on Aging can assist seniors and their families with aging-related questions and inquiries. The Job Center at the Wisconsin Department of Health Services can also be a great resource.

Madison resident Medicaid resources

Local Medicaid services

Wisconsin Department of Health Service’s 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 assisted living coverage in Madison

Medicare is a federal health insurance program available for seniors over the age of 65.

Seniors should be aware that Medicare doesn’t cover custodial costs (such as room and board) within assisted living facilities. However, Medicare recipients will be glad to know that it will cover medically necessary costs no matter where they choose to live.

Coverage can include the following:[06]

  • Necessary medical equipment
  • Medications
  • Hospice care
  • Preventive health services

Medicare may also cover the following in-home health services for assisted living residents:[07]

  • Physical, occupational, or speech therapy
  • Social services
  • Part-time home health aide services
  • Some skilled nursing care

Wisconsin’s SeniorCare is available for just $30 a year for seniors 65 or older who need income-based prescription assistance. Interested applicants can sign up upon turning 65. The state also has a Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program to help low-income seniors with premium and copay costs. My Choice Wisconsin — a managed care organization providing long-term care and health services that help seniors live more independently — offers five statewide programs:

Those interested in applying for My Choice Wisconsin can do so via phone, in person, or by mailing out an application.

Get help understanding Medicare

Madison has a wealth of Medicare experts available to help you understand your or a loved one’s eligibility and coverage.

Through the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), interested parties can receive counseling on how to enroll for Medicare, what payment options are available, and other information that will help them make an informed decision. Those interested in working with a SHIP counselor can start by calling the Medigap Helpline or the Medigap Part ​D and Prescription Drug Helpline.

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Dane County is another local resource residents can use if they’d rather connect with someone in person.

Wisconsin’s Board on Aging and Long-Term Care has an Ombudsman Program that helps answer questions, and local Social Security offices can also provide specific information regarding Medicare eligibility and coverage, too.

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 assisted living facilities

Madison’s assisted living facilities fall under the jurisdiction of the Wisconsin Division of Quality Assurance (DQA) and are expected to be licensed. The Wisconsin DQA is responsible for overseeing the state’s three different classifications of assisted living facilities:

Assisted living inspections

The Bureau of Assisted Living (BAL) is specifically responsible for inspecting all these assisted living facilities, and the inspections may be announced or unannounced. Facilities are surveyed every two years and are graded in these areas:[09]

  • Patient rights
  • Program services
  • Types of services offered (e.g., nutrition)
  • Physical environment and overall safety
  • Medication
  • Staff training

Staff and residents are observed or interviewed, and records are reviewed to ensure compliance. All surveys include safety code reviews, which look at several environmental safety factors. These factors include fire safety, evacuation rules, storage of hazardous materials, and required inspections.[08]

To check the compliance history of an assisted living facility or see if it has any complaints against it, reach out to the Division of Quality Assurance Bureau of Assisted Living Regional Offices. You can also use the Wisconsin Department of Health Services provider search to find any Statements of Deficiencies (SODs) and what was done to correct any issues.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) website features a comprehensive list of resources to help identify whether a facility is operating compliantly. You can find details about the caregiver background check process, certification status, how residents should be transported from assisted living facilities to hospitals, and much more. The DHS also has assisted living standards of practice resources to make them easier to understand.

Assisted living laws and regulations

Wisconsin’s Caregiver Law established specific caregiver programs that are designed to ensure seniors receive the highest quality care possible. These include:

  • The Background Check and Misconduct Investigation Program: This program was established to protect individuals receiving care and treatment services in Wisconsin, including those provided in treatment facilities, assisted living settings, the home, and the community.
  • The Feeding Assistant Program: Feeding assistants must take an approved training program to receive state certification. They also must meet certain requirements, such as being at least 16 years old.
  • Certified Direct Care Professional: This new program (launched in early 2023) teaches essential skills that direct care workers can use in many roles. The curriculum, developed by the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, prepares job seekers to enter the caregiving workforce.

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 assisted living facilities

Both Madison and the state of Wisconsin have suggested precautions surrounding COVID-19, but have no current mandates. The state does provide guidance for assisted living facilities.

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Vaccinations. COVID-19 vaccinations are not mandatory, but the state recommends vaccines and boosters.

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Masking. Masks are not mandatory, but some facilities may require them.

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Quarantining. Regardless of their vaccination status, residents who are quarantining or have COVID-19 are asked not to participate in communal activities in assisted living facilities. Likewise, staffers with COVID-19 should not attend work.

What to expect from assisted living in Madison

Madison has it all: The vibrance and culture you’d expect from a college town, all the natural beauty the Badger State has to offer, and the quaint charm of a medium-sized Midwestern city.

Considering that there are many assisted living partners in A Place for Mom’s Madison network, seniors can rest assured that Madison will be a top-tier place to spend their later years.[02]

A variety of perks for any senior

Madison’s many in-network assisted living facilities offer residents a plethora of perks that will keep them healthy and engaged. Madison’s assisted living communities will provide high-quality care for residents

Madison’s partner assisted living facilities offer a plethora of on-site services that will keep residents healthy and engaged. Depending on the community, you’ll find high-quality care and support with features such as:[02]

  • 24-hour staff availability
  • On-call doctors
  • On-site hospice care
  • On-site nursing care
  • Visiting occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech therapist, and podiatrist
  • Memory care
  • Full medication management
  • Catheter, colostomy, and wound care
  • Oxygen
  • A layout helpful for residents with memory loss

The following amenities and activities are also typically available for vibrant seniors who enjoy leisure time and getting social with fellow residents:[02]

  • Indoor and outdoor common areas
  • TV lounges
  • Private dining rooms
  • Fitness centers
  • Game rooms
  • Movie or theater rooms
  • Day trips and outings
  • Live musical performances
  • Trivia games
  • Barbecues or picnics
  • Birthday and holiday parties
  • Low/no-sodium, Kosher, and vegetarian dining options

All in all, Madison’s assisted living communities provide a balance of quality, health-related care and the services seniors need to truly enjoy their long-term care.

Opportunities for continuity of care

Although prospective residents can choose one of A Place for Mom’s eight partner standalone assisted living facilities, there are facilities in Madison that offer a combination of care types:[02]

  • Twelve partner facilities combine assisted living and memory care.
  • One partner facility combines assisted living and independent living.
  • Five partner facilities combine assisted living, independent living, and memory care.

These wide-ranging care options can put seniors and families at ease if they’re concerned about having continuity of care.

 

Madison assisted living services and amenities

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

Assisted living communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of assisted living 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
67.1%
52.1%
Doctor on call
Doctor on call
20%
33.3%
24-Hour awake staff
24-Hour awake staff
98.6%
98.8%
Diabetic care
Diabetic care
100%
99.4%
*Visiting health care professionals
*Visiting health care professionals
72.9%
56.5%
Home care agency on-site
Home care agency on-site
27.1%
29.8%
Non-ambulatory care
Non-ambulatory care
98.6%
99.1%
Respite or short term stays
Respite or short term stays
62.9%
47.9%
Hospice available on-site
Hospice available on-site
72.9%
53.1%
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 assisted living

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 Assisted Living partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.
Madison, WINational
Dementia behaviors care
Dementia behaviors care
70%
51%
Specialized memory care training for staff
Specialized memory care training for staff
45.7%
32%
Secured community and/or wander guard
Secured community and/or wander guard
64.3%
40.9%
Memory care only community
Memory care only community
30%
13.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Madison assisted living

Assisted living 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
17.1%
26.7%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
50%
39.8%
No sugar
No sugar
45.7%
36.6%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
54.3%
35%
Pureed meals
Pureed meals
14.3%
13.7%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Madison assisted living

Our assisted living 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
31.4%
30.8%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
41.4%
41.7%
Room service
Room service
32.9%
35.6%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
15.7%
17.7%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Madison assisted living

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered assisted living communities in Madison offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Madison, WINational
Activity director
Activity director
48.6%
45.6%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
34.3%
30.7%
Community service programs
Community service programs
25.7%
29.7%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
62.9%
49.3%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
54.3%
48.5%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
71.4%
52.1%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
40%
40.7%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
35.7%
34.1%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
40%
37.1%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
50%
46%
Live performances
Live performances
48.6%
46.3%
Dances
Dances
27.1%
29.3%
Fitness center
Fitness center
21.4%
24.1%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
48.6%
45.2%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Madison? Highlights for seniors

36271

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

13%

Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Madison population

$25,775

Average Social Security annual 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 VA hospital:

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University Hospital in Madison

University Hospital in Madison is the top-ranked health care provider in Madison. It’s also listed as the 35th-best hospital nationally for geriatric care.

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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 specialties and procedures.

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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 for veterans.

Transportation for seniors in Madison

Over 80% of the assisted living communities we partner with offer either complimentary or at-cost transportation to residents. This makes it easy and convenient for residents to travel for a doctor appointment, go shopping, or attend an off-site event. But when loved ones are coming to visit or preparing to take a resident on an outing, other transportation options might be important, too.

Like many other U.S. cities, Madison is best traveled via car.[10] Despite this, seniors in the city’s assisted living communities who don’t have their own vehicles shouldn’t worry: Madison has a variety of other transportation offerings they can take advantage of.

Public transportation in Madison

Madison has 41 bus lines and other specialized services that can help seniors get to wherever they need to go. First, Metro Transit helps passengers travel throughout the city on accessible buses. Accessibility features include the following:

  • Low floors on buses
  • Deployable boarding ramps
  • Buses that can lower closer to the curb
  • Locations for securing wheelchairs
  • Priority seating for seniors
  • Audio and visual bus stop announcements

Passengers 65 and older or those living with disabilities can ride the Metro Transit for $1 if they present an Americans with Disabilities Act-approved transit card or Metro senior/disability card. At the same time, the city’s paratransit service ensures that riders who can’t take advantage of fixed-route buses can get where they need to go.

Besides this service, Dane County Department of Human Services offers two transportation services to seniors and people with disabilities. Group Access Service provides regularly scheduled drop-offs to sites throughout Madison. Similarly, Dane County’s Older Adult Transportation Assistance program also provides seniors with rides to important appointments or meetings. Accessible service is available.

Madison’s Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) offers door-to-door pickups and drop-offs for seniors needing rides to health appointments. Volunteers use personal vehicles, so rides aren’t always accessible.

Below are Madison’s Walk Score ratings. Scores range from zero to 100, and a higher score points to a mode of transportation that’s easily to access.[10] These scores might be particularly useful for those visiting loved ones who need to make their way around the city.

Transportation card image
50

Walk Score

Transportation card image
35

Transit Score

Transportation card image
66

Bike Score

Senior activities in Madison

Whether seniors are art lovers, social butterflies, history buffs, or anything in between, Madison has a wide variety of engaging activities to take part in and sights to see. Visiting loved ones are sure to enjoy the city as well.

Art and architectural sites

The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art is free to visit, and fans of art can also take in displays free of charge at the Chazen Museum of Art on the University of Wisconsin’s flagship Madison campus.

Historical sites of interest

Standing out clearly to anyone walking around downtown Madison, the Wisconsin State Capitol is open to the public and offers fascinating (and free) tours daily.

Senior history buffs and their families will also be happy to know that the Wisconsin Veterans Museum is free to the public. Those looking for family-oriented historical fun will enjoy exploring the Wisconsin Historical Museum.

Outdoor activities

Olbrich Botanical Gardens was voted one of the “top 10 most inspiring gardens in North America,” and the grounds are wheelchair accessible. Visitors can attend a wide range of events and classes or explore the Bolz Conservatory.

The Olbrich Botanical Gardens offer the following accessibility features:

  • Wide brick and stone paths in the outdoor gardens
  • Plenty of benches for rest and conversation
  • Wide brick paths with a wheelchair pull-out in the Bolz Conservatory
  • Free guided tours around the 16-acre garden on the Olbrich Tram for those who need assistance

Animal lovers will enjoy the Henry Vilas Zoo. The facility is wheelchair-accessible, with push wheelchairs available for rent for $5.

Frequently Asked Questions

Azura Memory Care of Stoughton, The Waterford at Fitchburg and Kettle Park Senior Living are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Madison, WI. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Assisted Living in Madison is $4,527 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. WalletHub. (2023, September 5). Best and worst places to retire.

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

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

  4. United States Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance.

  5. Benefits.gov. Wisconsin Medicaid.

  6. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What Medicare covers. Medicare.gov.

  7. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Home health services. Medicare.gov.

  8. Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, August 2). Assisted living: Survey guide.

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

  10. Walk Score. (2023). Living in Madison.

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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. (2023, September 5). Best and worst places to retire.

2.

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

3.

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

4.

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

5.

Benefits.gov. Wisconsin Medicaid.

6.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. What Medicare covers. Medicare.gov.

7.

Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Home health services. Medicare.gov.

8.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services. (2023, August 2). Assisted living: Survey guide.

9.

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

10.

Walk Score. (2023). Living in Madison.