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A Gift Of Time
Free Comparison Guide

Senior Living
Options Guide

Independent living, assisted living, memory care, CCRC, nursing homes — what each actually means, who it's for, and typical Wisconsin costs.

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5 Types of Senior Living

What Each Option Actually Means

The terminology is confusing by design. Here's what each level of care really looks like, who it's right for, and what it costs in Wisconsin.

Independent Living

Active seniors who can live on their own but want a maintenance-free lifestyle with social opportunities.

$1,800 – $4,500/month in Wisconsin
Care Level

No personal care provided. Residents handle their own medications and daily activities.

What's Included
Private apartment or cottageMeals (typically 1–2/day)Housekeeping & maintenanceSocial activities & outingsTransportation servicesFitness & wellness programs

Assisted Living

Seniors who need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management but still want independence.

$3,500 – $7,500/month in Wisconsin
Care Level

Staff available 24/7 for personal care assistance. Care plans customized to individual needs.

What's Included
Private or shared apartment3 meals/day + snacksPersonal care assistanceMedication managementHousekeeping & laundry24/7 staffing & emergency response

Memory Care

Seniors with Alzheimer's, dementia, or other memory impairments who need specialized care in a secure environment.

$5,000 – $8,500/month in Wisconsin
Care Level

Specialized dementia-trained staff. Secured environment to prevent wandering. Structured daily routines.

What's Included
Secured environment & monitored exitsDementia-trained staffStructured daily programmingTherapeutic activities & sensory spacesPersonal care & medication managementFamily support & education

CCRC (Continuing Care)

Seniors who want to age in one community as their care needs change — from independent living through skilled nursing.

$100,000 – $500,000+ entry fee + $2,500 – $6,000/month
Care Level

Multiple care levels on one campus. Residents transition between levels as needs change.

What's Included
Independent, assisted & skilled nursing on one campusGuaranteed care as needs increaseLong-term cost predictabilityFull continuum of servicesOften requires medical & financial screeningRefundable entry fee options on some contracts

Skilled Nursing / Nursing Home

Seniors who need 24-hour skilled medical care and monitoring that cannot be provided at home or in assisted living.

$8,500 – $12,000+/month in Wisconsin (semi-private)
Care Level

Licensed nurses on-site 24/7. Medical care, rehabilitation, and personal care in a clinical setting.

What's Included
24/7 skilled nursing carePhysical, occupational & speech therapyWound care & IV therapyMedication administrationDietary & nutritional managementSocial services & activities
Find the Right Fit

Not sure which is
right for your loved one?

The right level depends on health needs, budget, personal preferences, and family support. Touring communities at different levels often clarifies what makes sense. We can help you figure it out.

Independent living is best for active seniors who want a maintenance-free lifestyle
Assisted living helps with daily activities while preserving independence
Memory care provides specialized 24/7 support for dementia and Alzheimer’s

After 30 years of helping Milwaukee families navigate senior living options, we've learned that touring at least 3 communities at different levels usually reveals the right answer. The numbers, the residents, and the gut feeling all matter.

Let's Talk Through Your Options

Free, no-pressure conversation — just honest guidance

Independent living vs. assisted living vs. memory care
Skilled nursing and CCRC continuum options
Typical Wisconsin costs for each level of care
How to tour communities with a critical eye
Financial planning and benefit program guidance

Want personalized guidance from a Senior Move Manager?

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