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Memory Care in Wisconsin
The state of Wisconsin is home to around 5.88 million people, with seniors aged 65 and older accounting for roughly 18% of the population. Each year, the risk of this demographic developing a cognitive condition such as Alzheimer’s increases. According to the CDC, the number of Alzheimer’s-related deaths in the state rose from 2,801 in 2016 to 3,628 in 2020. This increase of almost 30% is higher than the 23% increase in all deaths seen during the same period.
For support with this growing trend, Wisconsin dementia care homes offer support for individuals facing Alzheimer’s and related conditions. Within these communities, seniors receive 24-hour care and assistance provided by specially trained caregivers. This care meets daily living needs and helps prolong cognitive function and independence for as long as possible.
This guide outlines some of the pros and cons of living in Wisconsin for those of retirement age, the cost of memory care and a list of supportive resources available to seniors.
Find Memory Care Options Near You
The Cost of Memory Care in Wisconsin
When trying to decide how to pay for memory care, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of over 75,000 senior living providers to offer insight into the average cost of memory care in Wisconsin and its 31 cities.
The Cost of Memory Care in Wisconsin's Top Cities
Care costs vary widely across Wisconsin. Costs in Green Bay and Milwaukee are lower than the state average at $4,979 and $4,840, respectively. Rates in Oshkosh are considerably higher at $5,700 per month but still lower than the statewide norm. Waukesha is the most expensive option in the state, with average memory care costs coming in at $7,200.
Wisconsin
$6,083
Milwaukee
$4,840
Green Bay
$4,979
Oshkosh
$5,700
Waukesha
$7,200
Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Memory Care in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, inflation is impacting memory care costs at a modest rate. Prices rose 8.2% from 2022 to 2023, while the U.S. average increased by 10.4% rise during the same period.
In neighboring states, inflation has had varying effects. While the price increase in Illinois is on par with Wisconsin's at 8.7%, Minnesota's memory care rates have risen just 3.3%. Iowa's care costs rose just 10%, which is nearly identical to the U.S. average. Michigan's seniors experienced the most striking rise in prices, with memory care costs increasing by 21%
| Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin | $5,620 | $6,083 | $6,768 |
| U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
| Illinois | $5,328 | $5,790 | $6,382 |
| Michigan | $4,510 | $5,452 | $6,084 |
| Minnesota | $5,742 | $5,934 | $6,749 |
| Iowa | $5,376 | $5,914 | $6,299 |
The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living
The senior living landscape across Wisconsin varies by care type, so always factor in variations such as amenities, meals, professionally trained staff members and personalized/specialized care. While independent living is the most cost-effective option at $2,760 per month, some seniors may require more support with the activities of daily living. Assisted living averages $4,992 monthly, while memory care, which is designed for those with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia, averages $6,083.
Assisted Living
$4,992
Memory Care
$6,083
Independent Living
$2,760
Does Medicaid Cover Memory Care in Wisconsin?
Note: For the purposes of this guide, when we say “Memory Care” we are referring to memory care provided in a “social setting,” such as an Assisted Living Facility. This is the most common way to receive Memory Care and is the best fit for all but the frailest seniors. Sometimes the actual service of memory care can be provided in a Nursing Home (“medical setting”), so the financial assistance options will be very different. To learn more about the financial assistance options available for memory care provided in a nursing home, read our guide to Nursing Home Care in Wisconsin.
In Wisconsin, seniors needing memory care in a residential setting like a memory care facility may have some of their services covered through two programs: the Family Care Partnership Program and the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, which is available only in certain counties. Seniors must be Medicaid-eligible and require a skilled nursing level of care. Under the umbrella of Family Care, the FCPP is meant to help delay a move into a nursing home by delivering a wide array of supportive services. Seniors can receive these services at home, in an adult day care center or in an assisted living setting.
What Memory Care Services Are Covered by Medicaid in Wisconsin?
While room-and-board costs aren’t paid for by FCPP or PACE, these programs do help pay for nursing services, certain rehabilitative therapies, medical transportation and other forms of medical care like dentistry. Recipients may also qualify for home and personal care, delivered meals and access to activities and health care at an adult day care center in an effort to divert or delay nursing home placement.
Memory Care Waiver Programs in Wisconsin
There are two waiver programs in Wisconsin that may offer services in an assisted living facility. The Family Care Partnership Program differs from PACE in that seniors can be 55 and older, but to qualify for either program, recipients must need a nursing level of care. PACE is also limited to four Wisconsin counties, whereas FCPP is available statewide.
Family Care Partnership Program
For frail elderly who require a nursing level of care, the Family Care Partnership Program may provide health care services in an assisted living setting, where memory care is often provided. In addition to being Medicaid-eligible, recipients must have a long-term care functional screen administered by a social worker or other qualified health professional through the local Aging and Disability Resource Center.
Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly
Available to seniors 55 and older living in Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha or Waukesha counties who need skilled nursing services, the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly offers services through Medicare within the home or community. Those enrolled in the PACE program work with a team of health professionals who create a personalized care plan that evolves as needs change. Although some of PACE’s benefits are offered through Medicaid, the program is a combination of services from Medicare, Medicaid and home and community-based long-term care. More details about eligibility are available through the local ADRC.
How to Know If You’re Eligible for Medicaid in Wisconsin
Qualifying for Medicaid depends on meeting specific income and asset limitations as well as age, citizenship and disability status. The non-financial qualifications for seniors state that they must be:
- A full-time Wisconsin resident
- U.S. citizenship, permanent resident or legal alien
- Either 65 or older, blind or disabled
On the financial side, applicants who are single must earn no more than $32,904 per year and own no more than $2,000 in assets. In two-person households where only one person is applying, the numbers are the same, but the non-applicant can retain $148,620 in assets. In households where both spouses are applying, the limits are doubled: The income threshold increases to $65,808, and assets increase to $4,000.
2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in Wisconsin
| Household Size | Number of Applicants | Income Limits Per Year* | Asset Limits: Applicant(s) | Asset Limits: Non-Applicants |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| One Person | 1 | $32,904 | $2,000 | |
| Two Person | 1 | $32,904** | $2,000 | $148,620 |
| Two Person | 2 | $65,808 | $4,000 |
*Depending on the facility setting, a recipient may not be able to keep income up to this level.
**Income limit is for applicant only.
In Wisconsin, seniors whose income and assets are over the allowable limits can participate in the Medically Needy Program, where applicants spend down income on medical bills in order to qualify for Medicaid services. Specific spend-down amounts are the difference between the program’s income limit and a senior’s actual monthly income over 6 consecutive months. Once this amount has been met, Medicaid will kick in and cover eligible expenses for the remainder of the month.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Wisconsin
Seniors applying for Medicaid in Wisconsin can use ACCESS, the 24/7 online portal that lets them apply to multiple programs at once. Other options include printing and mailing in the form, going in person to the local income maintenance or tribal agency or calling to apply over the phone.
Information You Will Need
Before applying to Medicaid, you will need to show proof of income that spans a 5 year “look back” period, and this includes any other types of income from estates or trusts, retirement accounts, Social Security benefits or unemployment. You must also show proof of any assets bought or sold during the same time period.
In addition, you’ll need to have the following on hand:
- Past 5 years of income tax returns
- Copies of birth certificate and government-issued ID proving residency
- Titles for any owned properties and vehicles
- Power of attorney and guardianship documentation
- Proof of medical expenses to meet a deductible
How to Get Help Applying for Medicaid
Several resources help families apply for Medicaid. Wisconsin’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers can provide more insight into what criteria must be met for eligibility, and they can screen applicants to confirm financial and physical eligibility for the Long-Term Care Programs. Application assistance is also available by calling ACCESS, the online application portal.
| Program | Contact | Services provided |
|---|---|---|
| ACCESS | (800) 362-3002 | Families can call with general application questions weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. |
| Aging and Disability Resource Centers | Varies by county | Staff can help families identify whether their loved one qualifies for Medicaid coverage by completing functional and financial eligibility screening. |
| Family Care and other Long-Term Care Programs | Online | This resource provides a comprehensive overview of Medicaid’s long-term care programs such as PACE and Family Care Partnership |
Does Medicare Cover Memory Care in Wisconsin?
The short answer is that no, Medicare does not cover the cost of memory care in Wisconsin. As was mentioned above, this doesn’t apply to Memory Care received in a Nursing Home. Since it is the most common to receive memory care in a “social setting” (such as an assisted living facility), Medicare won’t be a viable financial assistance option for most seniors who need Memory Care. However, Medicare will still cover things like approved medications, doctor visits, medical equipment, etc., just like it would if you lived at home.
For more information about when Medicare can be used to pay for Memory Care in a nursing home, and for Medicare-related resources, see our guide to Nursing Homes in Wisconsin.
Other Financial Assistance Options for Memory Care in Wisconsin
Seniors who are not eligible (due to location, financial situation, or other factors) for other types of financial assistance, do still have some options. See the table below for an overview of some of the most common ways to make Memory Care affordable.
| Name | How To Apply | How It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Aid and Attendance | Learn more and apply online at va.gov. | Veterans who receive a VA pension may also be eligible for the Aid and Attendance benefit, a monthly cash allowance that veterans receive in addition to their standard pension amount. The benefit is intended for veterans in need of long-term care services and may be used towards paying for Memory Care. |
| Reverse Mortgages | Learn more about your options and how to apply at ftc.gov | If you own a home, you may be able to use a reverse mortgage to help pay for Memory Care. Reverse mortgages are loans that one can take out against the value of their home, essentially converting some of the home's equity into cash. Reverse mortgage loans do need to be repaid with interest, typically within 12 months of receiving the loan. |
| Long-Term Care (LTC) Insurance | Learn more about Long-Term Care Insurance and how to apply for a policy at acl.gov. | Seniors who already have long-term care insurance may be able to use it to pay for Memory Care. Most policies cover at least a portion of the cost, but it depends on the specific policy terms. Note that older adults who are already in need of Memory Care will not typically be eligible to sign up for a LTC insurance policy. |
Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Wisconsin
There are many resources in Wisconsin that assist seniors in their retirement. Caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.
Area Agency on Aging
Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Area Agencies on Aging | Wisconsin's Area Agencies on Aging handles medical and nonmedical needs for older adults. From Medicare counseling and elder nutrition programs that offer meal delivery to homes and senior dining centers where older adults can access meals Monday through Friday along with other health and nutrition support services, these programs help seniors age at home. AAA services also include caregiver assistance, prescription drug help and fall prevention programs to keep older adults in Wisconsin safe and healthy. |
Cash Assistance Programs
Cash assistance programs in Wisconsin provide financial support to help low-income retirees remain in their own homes for as long as possible. Seniors and caregivers can apply for tax rebates and reductions, discounts on vital services and help covering the cost of heating and cooling their home.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Lifeline Program | 800-234-9473 | The LifeLine Program offers a discount on landline or mobile telephone service, ensuring that participants can stay in contact with loved ones. |
Food Assistance Programs
Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Wisconsin seniors afford the nutritious food they need.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Meals on Wheels | Wisconsin Meals on Wheels supports seniors in communities statewide by offering nutritious meals, supportive services and safety checks. Seniors must be 60 or over or disabled to be eligible, and meals are provided in a congregate setting or via home delivery for those who aren't mobile. Pricing varies depending on circumstances, and some clients qualify for free meals. Seniors may also access varying support services, including emergency meal delivery during bad weather, pet food delivery and transportation to medical appointments. | |
| Wisconsin Elderly Nutrition Program | 608-266-3746 | The Wisconsin Elder Nutrition Program provides home-delivered meals and senior dining options for residents 60 and older. Hundreds of senior dining centers throughout the state offer qualifying Wisconsinites a space to eat, learn about nutrition and engage with other older adults. A locator allows residents to find the dining centers closest to them. To receive home-delivered meals, seniors undergo an evaluation via an at-home visit, and those who qualify can receive fresh or frozen entrees brought right to their doorsteps. |
| Wisconsin FoodShare | 800-362-3002 | The primary government assistance program in Wisconsin for nutritional needs is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), called Food Share. It gives families in need of help the ability to purchase food at their neighborhood grocery stores and, in some cases, restaurants and convenience stores. |
Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors
Wisconsin seniors who meet certain income criteria can apply to local resources to help them pay for prescription drugs. Eligible residents can also receive assistance through health insurance and other programs to access free or discounted medical services.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin SeniorCare Prescription Drug Assistance Program | 800-657-2038 | SeniorCare subsidizes prescription drug costs for qualifying Wisconsin seniors, covering most medically necessary drugs with only a $5 copay. For coverage, a drug manufacturer must make a rebate agreement with the SeniorCare program. It may require you to use a generic drug rather than a brand name. If you want to make a special request for a brand-name drug, you may appeal for an exception. More that 95% of Wisconsin's pharmacies accept the SeniorCare card. |
Legal Resources
Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Wisconsin seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Long Term Care Ombudsman Program | 800-815-0015 | The long-term care ombudsman advocates for Stoughton seniors in memory care facilities and helps to ensure that they get the scope of care they're entitled to under state rules. Individuals can contact the ombudsman for help with researching memory care facilities in Stoughton and finding ways to pay for services. The ombudsman can also help facilities identify solutions for gaps in residents' care resulting from challenges related to dementia. |
Senior Engagement
Senior engagement resources and programs in Wisconsin help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Senior Employment Program (WISE) | The Wisconsin Senior Employment Program, also known as the Senior Community Services Employment Program, is available to legal residents aged 55 or older. It offers part-time (subsidized) work to seniors who fall within a specific income range and are currently unemployed. Work placements are often in not-for-profit or government agencies. While the added income is a perk, seniors can also form new friendships and gain skills. Residents can apply via their respective counties. | |
| Alzheimer's and Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin (ADAW) | 888-308-6251 | The Alzheimer's & Dementia Alliance of Wisconsin offers education, personal services and family support for individuals impacted by memory loss. The nonprofit can provide care consultations, resource referrals and educational programs. It also hosts social programs and peer support groups for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's. |
| Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter | 800-272-3900 | The Wisconsin chapter of the Alzheimer's Association provides in-home options counseling to help seniors and families navigate the system and make informed decisions regarding residential memory care services. The chapter has in-person and virtual support groups and early-stage engagement activities to help individuals build social connections and gain practical advice. |
| Wisconsin Memory Screening | 608-266-2536 | Provided by Wisconsin's Department of Health Services, memory screening is available in communities throughout the state to improve early diagnosis. Screening also gives families an opportunity to connect with community-based programs and supports and find early intervention programs. |
| Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute | 414-219-5083 | The Wisconsin Alzheimer's Institute conducts research initiatives, educational programs and clinical care services to support individuals impacted by Alzheimer's and dementia. In addition to its public health programs and community engagement efforts, the organization sponsors the development of memory clinics across the state to ensure Wisconsinites have access to the care services they need. |
Medicaid Resources
Navigating the Medicaid system is often difficult and confusing. Several Wisconsin resources help older adults by providing advice on Medicaid options, waiver programs and eligibility criteria to help seniors receive the right health care benefits.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Family Care | 608-266-1865 | Family Care is a home- and community-based waiver program that helps cover the costs of care services disabled adults need at home or in long-term care settings, such as Community-Based Residential Facilities. Two methods deliver services covered by Family Care: aging and disability resource centers throughout the state and managed Financial Assistance for Senior Living & Senior Care care organizations serving different counties and regions. The program intends to keep disabled seniors in their own homes or communities rather than in the state's licensed nursing facilities, improving outcomes and costs for everyone. |
| Wisconsin Include, Respect, I Self-Direct Program | 888-515-4747 | This program, known as IRIS, gives you the power to direct Medicaid funds toward your choice of care options received at home and in the community. You can use your budget to pay for the following services: • Adaptive and communication aid • Counseling and therapy • Daily living skills training • Emergency response systems • Home-delivered meals • Home modifications • Personal care services • Skilled nursing services • Transportation There is no cost to any of these services if your income is low enough unless you exceed your budget. If your income is high enough, the program may expect you to pay a cost-share for services, which it will include in a monthly bill. |
Social Security Offices
Social Security offices in Wisconsin help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Social Security | Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working. |
Tax Assistance
Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Wisconsin resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Homestead Credit | 608-266-2486 | The Department of Revenue provides a property tax credit up to $1,168 for qualifying homeowners. The amount of your credit depends on your income and the number of dependents living in the home. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Wisconsin retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program (WHEAP) | 866-432-8947 | The Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program provides funds for low-income households in the state that need help paying their heating and cooling bills. It offers benefits on a long-term basis and in crisis situations. To qualify, households must earn 60% or less of the state median income. Meeting this income requirement doesn't guarantee the household will receive benefits as the program has limited funding. |
Veteran's Services
Wisconsin retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.
| Program Name | Phone Number | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Wisconsin VA Benefits and Health Care | The Wisconsin VA Benefits and Health Care options for veterans ages 65 and older are available at locations throughout the state, including medical centers in Madison, Milwaukee and Tomah and outpatient clinics, community-based programs and vet centers in many cities and rural areas. Seniors can access different types of assistance, such as the specially adapted housing program that helps older vets stay in their homes with modifications and additional monthly funding to pay for in-home care. | |
| Wisconsin Veterans Home at Union Grove | 800-947-8387 | Wisconsin Veterans Home in southeastern Wisconsin provides senior veterans with affordable residences and comprehensive nursing services. Its range of medical services includes doctors' visits, social worker care, medical transportation and skilled nursing. |
Memory Care Laws and Regulations in Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, memory care facilities are categorized as community-based residential facilities. CRBFs are governed by the Wisconsin Department of Health Bureau of Assisted Living. To ensure high-quality care, the department requires memory support facilities to adhere to strict rules and guidelines. It enforces these rules through inspections that are conducted at random and in response to complaints.
| Topic | Rule |
|---|---|
| Scope of Care | In addition to room and board, memory care facilities may provide assistive services, intermediate-level care and treatment to residents. These facilities may accept residents with dementia and other forms of dementia, but not those who need around-the-clock care. Facilities may also provide recreational and social activities, meals and transportation services. |
| Care Plans | Prior to admission, memory care facilities must assess a prospective resident’s physical and mental abilities and care requirements to ensure that the individual’s needs can be met in that setting. Upon admission, the facility must develop a temporary individualized service plan, and a more comprehensive plan that outlines what services the resident receives and how often must be developed within 30 days. |
| Medication Management | Memory care residents are permitted to self-administer their own medications unless a physician has deemed them unable to safely do so. Medications that aren’t self-administered must be administered by a registered nurse, a nurse practitioner or a pharmacist. Some types of medications, including injections, nebulizers and suppositories must be administered by a nurse. |
| Staffing | While Wisconsin doesn’t impose minimum staffing ratios, memory care facilities are required to ensure that there is enough staff present at all times to see to scheduled and unscheduled needs. Staff members must undergo specialized training that includes resident rights, provision of personal care, reporting abuse and managing the physical and psychological needs of memory care residents. In addition to this, staff must receive at least 15 hours annually of continuing education relevant to their job responsibilities. |
| Medicaid Coverage | Wisconsin Medicaid covers memory care services through two waiver programs, including IRIS and Family Care Programs. Those with dementia may be eligible for these programs if they meet income and asset guidelines. |
| Reporting Abuse | Anyone who is concerned about the quality of care provided by a memory care facility in Wisconsin should contact the Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman by calling 800-815-0015. |
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