Dementia, and specifically Alzheimer's, is a serious, growing problem. In fact, 1 out of every 10 adults over the age of 65 has Alzheimer’s dementia. As Milwaukee’s senior population continues to grow (14.06% growth between 2014 and 2019), so does the concern about aging and the risk of cognitive impairment.
In Milwaukee, the number of deaths for those 65 and older caused or partly caused by Alzheimer’s disease increased by 12.91% between 2014 and 2019. To put that in perspective, the number of deaths from all causes for that same age group only increased by 4.24%, showing that Alzheimer’s is a growing concern in the region. Overall, the percentage of seniors’ deaths related to Alzheimer’s is lower than the rest of the nation (5.78% in Milwaukee vs. 6.46% in the U.S.).
To help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of cognitive impairment find the support and care their loved ones need, we applied our unique methodology and spent dozens of hours researching senior living communities in Milwaukee. In addition to an overview of the communities’ best features, this guide highlights the best memory care facilities in the city, and gives information about pricing, types of care provided, residents’ reviews, and more.
In order to help families and caregivers of those with Alzheimer's find the support and care that their loved ones need, we've compiled information below about the cost of Memory Care, how to get financial assistance to help make care more affordable, free resources, etc. Also included are reviews of the best memory care facilities in the area, which cover pricing, types of care provided, residents' reviews, and more.
When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered price information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in Milwaukee and 30 other cities in Wisconsin.
With inflation rates rising, Milwaukee, WI, experienced a 10.5% hike in memory care costs from $4,384 in 2022 to $4,840 in 2023, similar to the national increase of 10.5%. Wisconsin rose less at 8%. Brookfield, Waukesha and Pewaukee have all experienced the same approximate 10.5% increase in their current costs.
Looking ahead to 2024, the projections indicate further increases, with Milwaukee expected to see an estimated rise of 8%, while the state of Wisconsin as a whole is projected to experience an 11.5% increase. Inflation rate increases make early financial preparation for senior living a must.
Location | 2022 Cost (Historical) | 2023 Cost (Current) | 2024 Cost (Estimated) |
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Milwaukee | $4,384 | $4,840 | $5,222 |
U.S. Average | $4,863 | $5,369 | $5,792 |
Wisconsin | $5,620 | $6,083 | $6,768 |
Brookfield | $6,829 | $7,540 | $8,134 |
Waukesha | $6,521 | $7,200 | $7,767 |
Pewaukee | $5,299 | $5,850 | $6,311 |
Memory care averages $4,840, the highest cost in Milwaukee, due to the specialized care and security required for those living with dementia. As an alternative, assisted living offers help with everyday needs and runs $5,275, and independent living costs average $3,333. When considering senior living options, accessing the senior's dementia needs and budget allows an evaluation of whether assisted or independent living is an alternative option.
Since not everyone can afford to pay for memory care out-of-pocket, it's important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Memory Care in Wisconsin.
There are plenty of support options available for retirees in Milwaukee, WI. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the type of care they provide for easy reference.
For more information about resources throughout the state and in nearby cities, we recommend visiting the Wisconsin state page on memorycare.com.
The Area Agency on Aging in Milwaukee is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.
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Seniors in Milwaukee who wish to age comfortably at home can access financial assistance. Numerous local organizations offer help with costs such as home care, home modifications, and utilities.
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Elderly individuals in Milwaukee, living independently or in elderly care homes, can avail of numerous local financial support opportunities. These aid options help reduce in-home or long-term care costs and connect them to valuable community resources.
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In Milwaukee, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.
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In Milwaukee, a variety of programs exist to support seniors and those with disabilities in funding home improvements and repairs. These initiatives, providing grants or loans, feature different eligibility criteria tailored for retired individuals.
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In Milwaukee, there are several organizations offering cost-effective or free legal aid to senior citizens. They provide advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills, and power of attorney. Some also champion the rights of the elderly in long-term care establishments.
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In Milwaukee, elderly individuals find a community hub in senior centers, offering a range of recreational pursuits, events, and essential resources. These centers also provide health programs, dietary advice, and support for issues related to senior living.
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In Milwaukee, numerous initiatives are in place to keep seniors involved and energetic. These encompass health programs, opportunities for volunteer work, and supportive communities, all designed to promote social participation and improve the quality of life.
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In the city of Milwaukee, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.
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In Milwaukee, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.
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According to the Alzheimer’s Association, 83% of all caregivers are unpaid family members, relatives, or other friends, and nearly half of all care is for older adults with some form of dementia. Caregiving, especially when it involves Alzheimer’s or dementia, is extremely exhausting and time-consuming, leading many caregivers to feel isolated and overwhelmed.
As a loved one continues to progress through the stages of dementia and his or her cognitive abilities continue to decline, behavioral problems, safety, and general care often become more than one caregiver can handle. This is when it’s important to find extra help, and residential facilities that have specialized memory care programs are often the best solution.
In addition to providing a safe environment, memory care programs seek to delay or halt cognitive decline while providing the opportunity for a social, independent lifestyle.
To choose the best memory care facilities in Milwaukee, our team of researchers started by using our unique methodology to develop a list of contenders. We further refined the list in the next phase of our process by completing hands-on research for each one of the companies that we developed. Finally, we compiled online reviews from residents and families and wrote summaries of each facility that made it through our selection process.
Overall, our team:
Located on 4 acres of lush, landscaped grounds, Clifden�Court provides a peaceful community with easy access to suburban life. Skilled caregivers are available 24 hours a day to assist�with bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management, with individualized care plans catered to each resident's unique needs. A primary physician, podiatrist and psychologist are also available, along with dental, vision and audiology�services all in one convenient location. Three home-cooked meals are served throughout the day, along with snacks and drinks designed for a variety of dietary preferences. Residents can stay active with a revolving social calendar that includes live entertainment, exercise classes, and games, along with trips to local destinations like the museum and the theater.�Transportation services are also available to help seniors stay active in the local community and to help them get to and from off-site appointments.
Residents and visitors alike are impressed by the caring staff and active social calendar. "The staff is super friendly, helpful, and genuinely seem to care about the residents," one recent visitor said. "Lots of activities and occasional outings help them stay active and involved."
HarborChase of Shorewood offers a luxurious senior lifestyle in a high-end community located close to shopping venues, medical facilities and churches. Seniors living with Alzheimers and dementia benefit from a relaxing, serene environment offered at its memory care neighborhood, The Cove. Residents receive personalized support from a care team highly trained in memory care methods and techniques. Plans are customized and designed around individual Silhouette of My Life profiles, which provide a glimpse of each residents unique hobbies, needs and capabilities. Life enrichment programming is focused on promoting mental, physical and spiritual wellness and features a daily calendar of stimulating activities, such as music performances, trivia and puzzles, low-intensity exercises and meditation sessions. The Cove offers a specialized dining experience through delightful memory-nourishing meals made from fresh, local ingredients and served at the intimate, inviting dining room.
The community earns positive feedback for its warm atmosphere and variety of activities. Families appreciate how the staff go out of their way to help residents and their families. "Everyone has been there to listen and will try to improve anything that is brought to their attention. It is a cozy and safe home for mom,� says one family member.
Harbour Village has an exclusive group of residences for memory care in Harbour House to provide dementia and Alzheimer's�care that enriches the lives of residents. Staff members at Harbour Village encourage residents by celebrating their interests and abilities, anticipating any health and wellness needs to ensure that they are met quickly and efficiently and via the Heartfelt Connections program. With a registered nurse on-site 24 hours a day and supervision from well-trained staff to assist with�personal care and daily activities when needed, residents in this community are well supported.�Staff members in Harbour House help residents remain active through a range of fitness classes, while the restaurant-style dining offers the community access to locally sourced seasonal meal options.
Residents and their families feel that Harbour Village is welcoming and friendly, with personalized attention when needed. One family member states, "We were thrilled that he would be in a safe environment that offered so many amenities and activities, as well as, delicious meals.�We can't thank them enough!"
Heartis Village North Shore is a senior memory care provider in Glendale�that offers residents quick access to the Milwaukee metro area. The community's signature Generations memory care services include assistance with all daily living activities, breakfast, lunch and dinner meal preparations drawn from all resident's past culinary experiences and jukeboxes�with musical selections that are personalized to each senior's�tastes. Monthly scheduled on-site activities include movie nights, game show sessions, brain games and guided exercise classes. The community provides shuttle services for scheduled resident appointments and outings, and an on-site beauty shop, party room and coffee shop are available for resident use. Pets are also welcome to live with their owners at Heartis�Village North Shore studios, suites and apartments.
Reviewers state that Heartis�Village North Shore is welcoming and beautiful. One says, "The outstanding staff at Heartis gives exceptional care and attention to each and every resident. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, there are engaging activities for the residents and Heartis offers wonderful seasonal menus."
Heritage at Deer Creek provides warm and compassionate senior memory care services. The community's village-like setting has an on-site beauty shop, a garden and patio area, and a dining room that offers three daily chef-prepared meals. Religious services and physical therapy sessions are also available on-site. Trained caregivers provide personalized memory care services 24/7 that include customized nutrition and health care plans that are updated every six months. The community encourages all residents to participate in daily routines of living, such as sweeping, setting dinner tables and folding laundry, to keep them active, engaged and purpose-driven. Off-site�events to local points of interest are also scheduled regularly.
Reviewers praise the�Heritage at Deer Creek's staff and grounds. One states, "They were very kind and caring. The facility had a lot to offer and their outdoor space was wonderful."
Heritage Court Memory Care is a welcoming community that offers homelike amenities. Residents can take a stroll around the outdoor garden courtyard or relax with friends within the safety of this secure community. Keypad access is required to access the building to help eliminate the danger of wandering behaviors. All of the staff are highly trained in working with seniors with cognitive impairment disorders, and the caregiving staff is always available to provide personal care assistance or to help dispense medication. Occupational and physical therapy services are provided on-site to assist residents with particular medical concerns. Each resident has a personalized shadow box next to their apartment door to help them navigate to the correct room. Activities offered include outings to local attractions, brain games, arts and crafts and fitness classes. Three nutritious�meals are served on a daily basis.
Family members praise the excellent caregiving�staff, with one reviewer saying, "Everything has worked out fantastic for my father here with Heritage Court. They are taking very good care of him and his needs. The staff is great, they are very helpful and very attentive."
Situated in a picturesque Milwaukee suburb, Heritage West Allis offers an all-inclusive community just minutes from the city's best shopping and dining. Licensed�nurses and caregivers are available 24/7 to assist with�bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management, and they cater to the unique�needs of Alzheimer's and dementia sufferers�through routine health and wellness programs, working closely with physicians to provide highly-personalized care. Three chef-prepared meals are served throughout the day, along with snacks and drinks that meet each resident's nutritional needs.�A packed social calendar includes activities for a wide range of interests, all designed to stimulate both body and mind. From arts and crafts to exercise classes, there's something for everyone.�Residents also benefit from�on-site therapy, a rehabilitation gym, spa rooms with tubs and walk-in showers, and interior gardens to relax and socialize.�Transportation services are available to help seniors stay active in the local community.
Both residents and visitors are impressed by the compassionate staff and the large selection of things to do. "Mom has improved so much," one resident's son said. "We are so grateful for the caring staff, awesome activities and socialization that she enjoyed here."
Laurel Oaks Senior Community is a Milwaukee�North Shore senior memory care service provider for residents seeking an active, engaging lifestyle. Staff members address the ongoing needs of residents undergoing diminishing memory loss, assisting with 24/7 daily living activities and conducting purposeful activities that promote positive resident mental engagement levels. Seniors receive personal escorts to in-house activities, salon and doctor appointments, and receive chopped, handheld or pureed meal selections when required. The bustling monthly social calendar includes games, guided exercise classes, arts and crafts activities, and nearby excursions to restaurants, shops and events are enjoyed by residents regularly.
Reviewers rave about the resident activities found at Laurel�Oaks Senior Community. One says, "The activities are very good. Every day, they have activities almost every hour. They have the staff for it, and there are no complaints about it."
Layton Terrace Senior Community is located in Greenfield near plenty of shopping and dining opportunities, including the Southridge Mall and several shopping centers nearby. Outdoor enthusiasts may enjoy the Boerner Botanical Gardens, which is next to Whitnall Park with open green spaces and walking trails. The pet-friendly community offers a team of dedicated caregivers and a registered nurse to deliver 24-hour personalized care, including assistance with daily tasks and housekeeping. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of what the community has to offer, such as the therapy gym and the beauty salon. The community also provides a full schedule of creative and social activities, like singing and music therapy.
Reviewers compliment the communitys variety of activities and features. One wrote, "They have an exercise program in the morning, and in the afternoon, they have some type of entertainment.� Another reviewer said, "They had very good physical therapy, a beauty salon, a nice dining area, and nice rooms.�
Meadowmere & Mitchell Manor West Allis is an assisted living and memory care community in Milwaukee that provides seniors with the necessary support. Team members help residents with memory impairments thrive by providing an enriching schedule of activities, such as lecture discussions, book clubs, and gardening along with physical fitness classes. With�plenty of staff available, residents get the level of care needed to assist their transition through the different phases. An on-staff nurse helps with medication management and other pharmaceutical needs, while specialists assist with therapy. Regular housekeeping and off-site transportation provide added convenience and mobility, and alert round-the-clock security gives�family members peace of mind. Seniors can join their neighbors for chef-prepared meals that can be tailored to specific dietary needs. Meadowmere & Mitchell Manor West Allis is a pet-friendly community that helps seniors meet their goals and maintain their independence for as long as possible.
Loved ones�comment on how helpful and attentive the staff is, and how well residents are treated. One family member states, "I would totally feel really comfortable having my mother live there. They were very positive, and made me feel comfortable."
At New Perspective North Shore, memory care for residents is provided in specially designed living spaces called Betty's Harbor memory care neighborhoods. Residents can take part in a variety of activities to keep them mentally, physically and socially stimulated. These include water aerobics and chair yoga to help with movement and flexibility. Chef-prepared meals and 24-hour supervised care�are provided alongside off-site activities and housekeeping. Memory care�residents also have access to on-site physical, speech and occupational therapists. The community boasts a pool, on-site beauty and hair salons and in-room food options. Art classes are available for the residents who are creative, and a piano in the center of the recreational area offers a place for seniors to play.
Residents and their families appreciate the spacious rooms and cheerful atmosphere, with one reviewer commenting, "The rooms were the nicest I've seen and I liked the size of them." Another mentioned, "the spirit of fellowship is very positive."
New Perspective Senior Living Mequon�is a memory care community set in a small cottage-like environment. The entire community is secure with a safe outdoor courtyard where residents can take a stroll or socialize with friends. The family-style environment encourages residents to interact with each other and to take part in household activities such as baking, cooking and gardening. The high ratio of caregiving staff to residents ensures that each resident receives individual care and attention. Caregivers are available 24/7 to assist residents with personal care tasks and medication management. Daily activities offered include fitness classes, arts and crafts, movie nights and musical entertainment. Family events are held on a regular basis to encourage interaction with family members. Three delicious home-cooked meals are served on a daily basis in the dining room and special diets can be accommodated.
Residents and family members are impressed by the friendliness of the�staff and the level of interaction between staff and residents. Reviewers comment on the beautifully landscaped courtyard where residents can enjoy some freedom in the outdoors. Visitors praise the range of activities available at the community.
Situated in the heart of West Allis with easy access to local amenities, Noble Senior Living West Allis provides a tranquil setting for its community and their pets. Residents enjoy frequently scheduled outings to nearby nature hotspots�such as Lake Michigan and cultural trips to museums. There are also a variety of activities that include church services and Bible study, special cooking activities, and live entertainment. Three restaurant-style meals are provided per day and alternative meals are available on request. There are a well-stocked library and on-site�barber and salon and residents have access to large community areas. While independent living is encouraged, 24-hour care is available, and residents have access to a nursing call system. Transport to nearby medical facilities can also be arranged. The memory care community enjoys a safe, secure neighborhood.
A reviewer, happy that they found a facility�for her loved one, said, "We found ourselves in a situation where we needed to find my Mother-in-Law a long-term living facility due to mental health issues. This has been a daunting process to say the least. I was happy to find [Noble Senior Living West Allis]�was close to our home."
Situated across the street from Gravel Shoals Park, Oak Park Place Wauwatosa is an upscale senior living community that offers memory care for residents who struggle with dementia, Alzheimer's or other cognitive deficits. The staff approaches memory care with a failure-free philosophy that emphasizes strengths and assists with weaknesses. All residents receive personal assessments and then are placed into one of three care levels based on need. All memory care residents receive three meals and various snacks throughout the day along with pet therapy, sensory programming and the freedom to interact with other community members in safe, secure common areas.
Most reviews are positive of Oak Park Place Wauwatosa with one family member stating it made the experience of transitioning their mother into care "very easy and comfortable.� Another reviewer elaborated, calling the administrative team "welcoming and informative� and the caregivers "friendly and resident-focused.�
Ovation Sarah Chudnow is a Jewish nonprofit community that delivers memory care in a warm and elegant environment. Staff organizes daily pastimes that residents can take part in such as exercise, musical events, art therapy and gardening. The community offers an array of activities based on individual interests to help people with dementia and Alzheimer's remain active. Residents can enjoy delicious kosher food and access to a fully stocked library. Original artwork such as paintings and sculptures created by residents are exhibited all around the campus. Nurses, care staff and volunteers are available to aid residents with their medical and living needs in a compassionate manner.
Reviewers�are pleased with the immaculate accommodation, beautiful surroundings, food quality and range of activities on offer. One noted, after visiting the community, "They have everything and they are amazing.� Another expressed admiration at the "beautiful artwork all through the building.�
Surrounded by forest just minutes from Lake Michigan, Ramsey Woods provides a peaceful, homelike community with easy access to nature. The specially trained staff assists with�bathing, dressing, grooming and medication management, all while keeping each resident's unique needs in mind. Personalized care plans are routinely updated to accommodate physical, mental and emotional changes, with programs designed to maximize individual potential. Three home-cooked meals are served throughout the day, all catered to a variety of dietary preferences. Specialized wellness and fitness activities nurture both body and mind, while the diverse event calendar keeps seniors active throughout the week, with activities ranging from exercise classes to outdoor BBQs. Residents also benefit from a whirlpool spa, beauty shop and outdoor walking paths to relax and rejuvenate, and regular outings help keep them active in the local community. Transportation is also available for off-site appointments and events.
Both residents and visitors are impressed by the compassionate staff. "Quaint, homey, caring living community," one resident's daughter said. "It�seems the workers there truly care."
Life at the Silverado North Shore Memory Care Community is designed with the dignity, enrichment, and comfort of residents. The dementia-certified staff creates engaging club programs that focus on growth and creativity, helping to build the resident's self-esteem. The different neighborhoods in the community are tailored to each senior's needs while maintaining the goal of slowing dementia progression by building cognitive abilities. A licensed nurse is on-site 24/7 for medication administration, and a physician medical director provides guidance in managing complex healthcare needs. There's a garden and patio where seniors and their pets can take a stroll. To help them feel more confident, there's an on-site beauty and barbershop.
Family members rave about the helpful and responsive staff and the quality of care and activities. One states, "I am so grateful that she is thriving and actively engaged in such an amazing community that offers a beautiful open space and many engaging activities, surrounded by people who honestly care about her well-being on all levels."
St. Anne's Salvatorian�Campus is the oldest Catholic�senior community in the Milwaukee Archdiocese and provides respectful, tailored care in a community that feels like home. Alongside memory care, the staff provides assisted living, skilled nursing, short-term rehab and respite care in well-kept grounds that include a beautiful church. The memory care is led by eight certified dementia practitioners, who provide monthly support meetings and newsletters for family members and caregivers, residents and their families. The community also supplies�Memory Reminiscing Kits that help spark conversations and enjoy memories.
Family members love that residents are kept engaged throughout the day. One states, "When we walked into St. Anne's Salvatorian Campus, it just felt alive and personable. The staff was personable, and the residents seemed happy. There was a lot of hustle and bustle, and things going on. It just gave us a feeling of life."
Located conveniently near the intersection of Interstate 41 and Route 18 across the street from Wisconsin Avenue Park, St. Camillus North Residence is a faith-based assisted living and memory care community. Memory care residents are split into three secure neighborhoods based on current abilities and receive personalized care plans to ensure their individual needs are met safely. All residents receive three home-cooked meals in a community dining area, housekeeping, linens and laundry service, medication management and care coordination. Music therapists and recreational directors prepare 10 hours of programming a day to ensure memory care residents stay happy and engaged throughout the day. Activities are designed with the Revitalize Wellness Program in mind, which emphasizes the six areas of wellness required for a high-quality of life.
One reviewer described the staff of St. Camillus Assisted Living as "very caring� and "able to keep residents active and entertained.� Another reviewer described the community as "beautiful and very nice� with "outstanding� physical therapy staff.
The Auberge at Oak Village is a specially designed memory care community that offers an engaging lifestyle for seniors living with Alzheimers and other forms of cognitive conditions. Residents benefit from the Spark program, a Montessori-inspired lifestyle that focuses on promoting a sense of community, inclusion and purpose while appreciating individual capabilities and interests. Unique life stories are celebrated through biography boards or memory boxes, which serve as testaments to each residents past and present success milestones. The communitys safe, functionally designed living spaces, adequate staff training and innovative life enrichment program are products of its partnership with the Center for Applied Research in Dementia. The Auberge at Oak Village embraces a whole-person approach to healthy living through activities that stimulate the mind, body and spirit, including fitness exercises, lifelong learning opportunities, religious services, intergenerational programs and community volunteer projects.
Reviewers say the residents seem happy with the communitys daily programming, as one family member observes, "My dad has so much more stimulation and interaction with others now that he's living at the facility and is well cared for.� People recommend the Auberge at Oak Village for its welcoming environment, professional care, security and efficient maintenance.