Alzheimers, Dementia & Memory
Care Facilities in Wisconsin

Having to be the family to find suitable memory care homes for your parents or loved ones can be a big task to take on. Seeing them go from living an independent lifestyle to becoming more and more dependent on others can be hard for children and family to watch. But, finding the right dementia care facilities to provide the care they need is necessary.

Luckily, in Wisconsin, there are several choices available that will give your loved one the care that they need to live a better life. With the information in this article, you'll be able to pick out a facility that has the best care available for your family members.

Memory Care Costs in Wisconsin

Below is a table outlining the average costs of memory care in Wisconsin, with details for its 10 largest cities. Memory care costs reflect the higher level of care and security required for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

The average memory care cost in Wisconsin is higher than the national average of approximately $5,750 per month. Cities like Milwaukee and Waukesha are near or slightly above the statewide average, while Madison offers a slightly lower cost. Costs in Wisconsin's smaller cities, such as Green Bay and Oshkosh, trend lower.

Comparatively, neighboring states such as Illinois and Minnesota report similar or slightly higher average costs, with Illinois around $6,382 and Minnesota nearing $6,750. These differences often reflect variations in local demand, available facilities, and state policies. Memory care costs in Michigan and Iowa are slightly lower but have experienced higher recent inflation.

Cost of Memory Care in Most and Least Expensive Zip Codes in Wisconsin

Here is a table summarizing the five most expensive and five least expensive zip codes in Wisconsin for memory care services. These estimates reflect average monthly costs based on recent data:

Memory care costs in Wisconsin vary widely based on location. Premium areas like Madison's west side and Brookfield reflect higher costs due to enhanced amenities and specialized services. Conversely, smaller cities and less central areas, such as Eau Claire and Wausau, tend to offer more affordable options, with savings of up to $2,700 monthly compared to the state's most expensive regions.

These trends reflect the balance of urban versus rural living costs and the level of care services offered. If looking for affordability without compromising quality, exploring less metropolitan zip codes may be beneficial.

Comparison of Memory Care Costs to Other Senior Living Options in Wisconsin

Wisconsin memory care costs are generally higher than other types of senior living due to the specialized care and security needed for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's. Below is a comparison table that outlines average monthly costs for various senior living options in Wisconsin.

Summary

• Memory Care vs. Assisted Living: Memory care costs are about 25-50% higher than assisted living due to the need for specialized staff, secure facilities, and tailored activities.
• Memory Care vs. Independent Living: Memory care costs are over twice as much as independent living because of the additional care and oversight required.
• Memory Care vs. Nursing Homes: Nursing homes are the most expensive option, often costing 50-75% more than memory care, reflecting the level of medical care provided.

Wisconsin's memory care costs fall in the middle range when compared to other senior living options, offering a balance of healthcare support and quality of life.

Can You Use Medicare to Pay for Memory Care in Wisconsin?

Memory care is a specialized form of long-term care tailored to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or other cognitive impairments. In Wisconsin, families often explore financial options to cover the cost of this care, including Medicare. However, understanding Medicare’s limitations and other available resources is crucial for effective planning.

Medicare Coverage for Memory Care in Wisconsin

Medicare primarily focuses on medical care rather than custodial or long-term care. Memory care services in Wisconsin typically fall under custodial care, which includes assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover the costs of custodial care in memory care facilities or assisted living communities.

What Medicare Does Cover

In Wisconsin, Medicare may cover specific healthcare services related to memory care under certain conditions:

1. Hospital Stays and Medical Treatments: If a memory care patient is hospitalized for medical reasons, Medicare Part A covers hospital stays, including some treatments related to dementia-related illnesses.

2. Skilled Nursing Care: Medicare covers short-term skilled nursing care after a qualifying hospital stay (minimum three days). However, this is time-limited, typically up to 100 days, and must include a medical need for skilled nursing services.

3. Home Health Care: If deemed medically necessary, Medicare may cover intermittent home health services for Wisconsin residents, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or skilled nursing.

4. Hospice Care: For individuals with terminal conditions, including advanced dementia, Medicare may provide hospice care coverage if they qualify.

Medicaid as an Alternative in Wisconsin

For residents of Wisconsin who require memory care but cannot afford it, Medicaid is often a more suitable option. Wisconsin’s Medicaid program includes long-term care benefits through programs like Family Care and IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct). These programs may cover memory care services in residential facilities if the individual qualifies financially and medically.

Other Financial Options in Wisconsin

1. Wisconsin Family Caregiver Support Programs: These programs provide assistance and respite care for family members supporting individuals with dementia.

2. Veterans Benefits: Wisconsin veterans may qualify for additional assistance through the VA, which can sometimes include memory care support.

3. Private Insurance and Long-Term Care Policies: Some private insurance plans or long-term care policies might offer partial coverage for memory care.

4. Wisconsin Alzheimer's and Dementia Grants: State-specific grants and assistance programs may help cover portions of the cost of memory care for eligible residents.

Planning for Memory Care in Wisconsin

Since Medicare alone does not cover memory care costs in Wisconsin, families should explore a combination of Medicaid, private insurance, savings, and state-specific programs. Consulting with a Wisconsin-based elder care advisor or financial planner specializing in senior care can also be beneficial for navigating these complex options.

Who Is a Great Candidate For Wisconsin Dementia & Alzheimer's Care Facilities?

Wisconsin memory care facilities are designed to house those who have been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s and must deal with the side effects and symptoms that come with having these diseases. These homes specialize in caring for dementia patients and know their specific needs and cater to the difficult challenges that they face.

Staff at these dementia care homes are trained to handle the unique situations that arise with dementia patients. These incidents can include confusion about where they are, who their family is, and even what their name is. The medical staff is equipped with knowledge about how to diffuse these situations so that patients won’t get angry or frustrated.

Memory Care Admission Requirements in Wisconsin

Memory care facilities in Wisconsin are specialized residential care environments designed to support individuals with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other memory-related conditions. Admission requirements for these facilities are tailored to ensure that residents receive the appropriate care and support based on their needs. Below are the key admission criteria and considerations specific to Wisconsin:

1. Assessment of Cognitive and Health Needs

Before admission, prospective residents typically undergo a comprehensive assessment. This may include:

• Medical Evaluation: A physician's diagnosis of a memory-related condition, such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
• Cognitive Assessment: Evaluation of memory loss severity and its impact on daily functioning.
• Behavioral Assessment: Identification of potential behavioral issues, such as wandering or aggression, that require specialized care.
• Activities of Daily Living (ADLs): Assessment of the individual's ability to perform tasks such as eating, bathing, and dressing.

2. Age Requirements

Most memory care facilities in Wisconsin cater to older adults, typically aged 55 and above. However, exceptions may be made for younger individuals diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer's or other memory-related conditions.

3. Legal and Financial Documentation

Prospective residents or their families are required to provide:

• Legal Documents: Advance directives, powers of attorney, and guardianship papers, if applicable.
• Insurance Information: Details about Medicare, Medicaid, long-term care insurance, or other coverage.
• Financial Disclosures: Information on how the care will be financed, such as private pay, Medicaid assistance, or veterans’ benefits.

4. Functional Fit with Facility Services

Facilities in Wisconsin assess whether they are equipped to meet the prospective resident's needs. They consider:

• Level of supervision required.
• Ability to manage any medical conditions alongside memory care.
• Suitability of the facility's programs for the resident's cognitive and emotional well-being.

5. Behavioral Stability

Wisconsin facilities evaluate potential residents for behaviors that might pose risks to themselves or others, such as severe aggression or persistent wandering. Facilities may decline admission if they lack the resources to manage such behaviors safely.

6. Regulatory Compliance

Memory care facilities in Wisconsin must comply with state licensing regulations. These regulations may influence admission policies, such as requirements for:

• Physician-signed medical orders for assisted living or memory care placement.
• Compliance with state-mandated staffing ratios for specialized care needs.

7. Waiting Lists and Availability

Demand for memory care services is high in Wisconsin. Many facilities have waiting lists, so families are encouraged to plan ahead and secure a spot early, especially if they prefer a specific location.

8. Pre-Admission Visits

Prospective residents and their families are often invited for a tour or temporary stay. This allows the family to evaluate the environment and the facility to ensure a good fit.

Amenities Offered in Wisconsin Memory Care Facilities

Wisconsin Alzheimer's care facilities offer its residents multiple amenities that make living in the facility more like home. With around the clock medical care and emergency services, like nurse alert buttons, they can get the care that they need at any time of the day. Staff will also take care of giving them any medications that they are prescribed by their doctor and take them to any appointments that are off the premises.

Dementia and Alzheimer's care homes don't just provide medical services to their patients, they also provide personal care services as well. For patients that need it, assistance with bathing, grooming, and feeding services are offered to handle the daily activities that they can't perform on their own. This may also include brushing the patient's teeth and doing their hair.

Laundry services are also offered at memory care communities to keep the patient's room and their clothes clean and tidy. The residential staff takes care of all housekeeping duties like cleaning the bathrooms, bed linens and doing the patient's laundry to ensure that they have clean clothes each day. 

Many facilities also make time for residents to socialize to help foster a sense of community among them. With special events like movie nights, game days, or holiday parties, patients can socialize with others and stimulate their minds.

Questions to Ask Wisconsin Memory Care Facilities

When evaluating memory care facilities in Wisconsin for a loved one, it’s essential to gather detailed information to ensure the best care and a comfortable environment. Here’s a comprehensive list of questions to guide your discussions with staff and administrators:

Facility Details and Environment

1. What is the facility's experience in memory care, and how long has it been operating?
2. Is the facility licensed and regulated by the state of Wisconsin?
3. What security measures are in place to prevent wandering or unsafe behaviors?
4. How is the facility designed to accommodate individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's?
5. Are there outdoor spaces, and how are they secured for safety?

Staff Qualifications and Training

6. What specific training does the staff receive for dementia care?
7. What is the staff-to-resident ratio during the day and at night?
8. Are staff members trained to handle challenging behaviors such as aggression or anxiety?
9. How often is staff training updated?

Care Services and Support

10. What types of therapies and activities are offered to support memory and cognitive health?
11. How does the facility handle medical care, including emergencies?
12. Are transportation services provided for medical appointments?
13. Can the facility accommodate specific needs such as diabetes management, mobility issues, or incontinence care?

Personalization and Daily Life

14. Are residents allowed to bring personal items to make their living space feel more like home?
15. How are meals planned, and can dietary restrictions or preferences be accommodated?
16. What is the daily schedule, and how flexible is it?
17. Are family visits encouraged, and are there specific visitation policies?

Cost and Financial Information

18. What is the monthly cost, and what services are included in that fee?
19. Are there additional costs for specific services or care levels?
20. Does the facility accept Medicaid or other forms of financial assistance?
21. What is the policy regarding rate increases?

Family Involvement and Communication

22. How does the facility keep families informed about their loved one’s condition and care?
23. Are there support groups or resources for family members of residents?
24. Can families participate in care planning and activities?

Transition and End-of-Life Care

25. How does the facility manage transitions as a resident's condition changes?
26. Is hospice or palliative care available on-site?
27. What is the policy for relocating residents if their care needs exceed the facility's capabilities?

Reputation and Reviews

28. Can the facility provide references or testimonials from current residents’ families?
29. Are there recent inspection reports or reviews available?
30. What is the facility’s process for handling complaints or grievances?

Memory Care or Assisted Living / Nursing Home in Wisconsin?

Alzheimer's care homes in Wisconsin differ from the many other types of facilities that elderly patients are often housed in. Although places like assisted living homes and nursing facilities offer some of the same amenities, the elevated level of care at memory care homes is unmatched.

Assisted living facilities are made for those who are advancing in age, but these homes are for those who still remain fairly independent. These patients are transitioning from their independent lifestyle to more dependence so that, as they age, they will have the care they need.

Nursing homes are very similar as they offer medical care to elderly patients in a residential facility. However, nursing homes are not equipped with the same level of care that can handle memory care for patients' needs. These homes are designed for the average patient who has some medical needs and does not suffer from the often-severe side effects of dementia.

Alzheimer's care communities allow sufferers of dementia and Alzheimer's to get a high level of medical and psychological care that they need to live a better life while receiving individualized treatment for their disease.

Memory Care Regulations in Wisconsin

Memory care facilities in Wisconsin, which are typically part of assisted living facilities, must adhere to state-specific regulations to ensure the safety, well-being, and dignity of residents with dementia or other cognitive impairments. These regulations are governed primarily by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) and are designed to address staffing, training, environment, resident rights, and care standards.

Licensing and Facility Requirements

Memory care units in Wisconsin fall under one of the following categories of assisted living facilities:

1. Community-Based Residential Facilities (CBRFs): Accommodate five or more residents.
2. Residential Care Apartment Complexes (RCACs): Provide a less intensive care option for residents who do not require continuous supervision.
3. Adult Family Homes (AFHs): Serve one to four residents in a home-like setting.

Each facility must be licensed under the appropriate category, and those offering memory care must specifically disclose their ability to serve residents with dementia during the licensing process.

Staff Training and Qualifications

State regulations require that staff working in memory care units receive specialized training in the following areas:

• Dementia-specific care: Understanding the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.
• Behavior management: Addressing challenging behaviors like aggression, wandering, and confusion with non-pharmacological strategies.
• Communication techniques: Ensuring effective interaction with residents who may have difficulty expressing themselves.
• Safety protocols: Training in emergency response, fall prevention, and techniques for minimizing wandering risks.

Training must be ongoing, with refresher courses provided annually to ensure compliance and improve care quality.

Resident Assessments and Care Plans

Before admission, memory care facilities must conduct a comprehensive assessment of a prospective resident's physical, cognitive, and emotional needs. This assessment informs an individualized service plan (ISP), which outlines:

• Daily care routines.
• Special dietary needs.
• Supervision levels.
• Behavioral management strategies.

Care plans are reviewed and updated regularly or whenever there is a significant change in the resident’s condition.

Environment and Safety Standards

Memory care facilities in Wisconsin are required to maintain a secure and therapeutic environment, which includes:

• Secured exits: To prevent wandering and elopement.
• Clear signage and layouts: Designed to reduce confusion and enhance orientation for residents.
• Adapted living spaces: Minimizing fall risks through appropriate lighting, flooring, and furniture.

Facilities must also have designated spaces for activities that promote cognitive stimulation and social engagement.

Resident Rights

Residents in Wisconsin memory care facilities are entitled to the same rights as any other assisted living resident, including:

• Privacy and dignity in care.
• Freedom from physical or chemical restraints unless medically necessary and properly documented.
• Access to their personal records and care plans.
• The ability to voice grievances without fear of retaliation.

Oversight and Compliance

The Wisconsin DHS conducts regular inspections and surveys to ensure that facilities comply with these regulations. Non-compliance can result in fines, suspension of licenses, or closure of the facility. Families and caregivers can also report concerns to the DHS for investigation.

How Families Can Cover Cost of Dementia & Alzheimer's Care in Wisconsin

Families are often stressed out enough when they’re required to find dementia care communities for their loved ones, so thinking about the financial issues that come along with paying for these facilities can really take a toll on them. With the average cost of facilities that provide memory care being about $6,750 a month, covering the cost can seem well out of reach.

However, Wisconsin offers a way for patients who need financial assistance to receive help through the Medicaid program. If the patient qualifies for this program, then they will receive payment to cover the entire cost of the facility. This program is also an entitlement program, which means that there are no enrollment caps and all those who qualify will get the assistance they need.

For patients who might not meet the eligibility requirements for this program, there are other ways for them to get the financial help they need. Through the use of waivers, they can receive payment to cover the cost of certain services in their homes so that they can put off going into a memory care facility for as long as possible. These waivers will cover the cost of bathing, feeding, and other personal care services as well as home modifications for patients who have many physical limitations.

There are also several non-state options for those who don’t qualify for any of the methods above.  

Finding memory care homes for relatives can be a lot to take on when you are already dealing with the difficult emotions that accompany seeing a loved one in their position. However, with the information above giving you all that you need to know about where to find these facilities, and how to pay for them, you can get your loved one into a home that will take care of all their needs.

If you would like to find out more about how to find these homes that offer dementia care in your area of Wisconsin, then please browse below to find the best options today.