Page 15 of Best Independent Living in Wisconsin

Overview of Parkside

Located at 2234 Luann Ln in Madison’s Leopold neighborhood, Parkside is an independent living community for adults 55 and older. The facility offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom residential units. Madison’s city center lies 3.5 miles distant; Planned Parenthood Madison South Health Center is 1.19 miles away.

Parkside operates as a private-pay community without Medicare or Medicaid certification. The community provides activity-based programming centered on wellness and social engagement. Residents access BINGO, a therapy pool, fitness classes, rehabilitation services, and an organized walking club. These offerings reflect a model built around active lifestyle and peer interaction rather than personal care assistance.

The Walk Score is 49, placing the community 232nd of 581 Wisconsin senior facilities. This score means a few nearby services are reachable on foot, but most shopping, dining, and errands require transportation. The neighborhood is car-dependent for broader community access.

The community describes its approach as holistic wellness, emphasizing resident autonomy, support, and participation in a structured social environment. The facility does not provide medical staffing or personal care oversight; it is positioned solely for independent-living older adults who manage their own activities of daily living and medications.

Parkside fits older adults seeking an independent living residential setting with organized social activities and wellness programming, without medical care or personal assistance.

Overview of Drumlin Reserve

Drumlin Reserve is an active-aging community administered by Chiara Housing and Services Inc. in Cottage Grove, Wisconsin, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Licensed in April 2025 with 70 beds, the community provides older adults in Dane County with a full continuum of care and robust lifestyle programming. Notably, the community was awarded the Best of Cottage Grove in 2025 for senior independent living, assisted living, and memory care, highlighting exceptional quality in its early operational phase.

With 26 of 70 beds occupied, the community currently operates at approximately 37% occupancy rate, which can be attributed to it being newly opened. This is also ideal for those seeking immediate placement without waitlist delays, allowing for flexibility in planning. The community has also undergone one standard inspection and one complaint-initiated visit, which is a good indicator of compliance for a recently opened community. Additionally, the most recent complaint-initiated investigation on October 29, 2025, concluded with zero findings.

Highlighting the community’s philosophy centered on active living, a well-structured lifestyle programming that encompasses social engagement and resident vitality is also provided. The community’s three-tier care model, ranging from independent living to memory care, also allows residents to stay even when their needs progress. Additionally, an events calendar is also conducted for residents’ social and physical well-being.

For a newly established community in the Madison area, Drumlin Reserve has a clean compliance record and broad availability, which appeals to those seeking flexibility in long-term planning. The community’s full continuum of care also ensures older adults can age in place and couples can stay together despite different levels of care. Its active and lively setting is also ideal for those who value social engagement without sacrificing quality. The community has also been locally recognized through the Best of Cottage Grove awards, suggesting exceptional operational standards.

Overview of At Home Again Columbus

At Home Again Columbus is an assisted living community operated by Home Again Assisted Living Inc. in Columbus, Wisconsin, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care in Columbia County. Licensed since May 2012, the 36-bed community brings more than 13 years of operating experience, one of the longer track records among communities of similar size in the region.

The community currently operates at an 83% occupancy rate, with about 30 residents in residence, suggesting steady demand while still allowing for some availability for interested families. Notably, the community has received local recognition with the Best of Waunakee 2023 award. Staffing is available 24 hours a day, and the community offers independent care services, supporting a continuum that ranges from independent living to more structured memory care, which benefits families seeking multiple levels of care under one roof.

Zero deficiencies have been recorded in inspections conducted in November 2023 and January 2024. However, the most recent inspection, on November 17, 2025, identified five deficiencies, still below the Wisconsin average of 12. These findings related to caregiver background checks, medication management procedures, dryer vent safety, emergency evacuation drills, and water temperature controls. They reflect procedural compliance issues rather than direct resident harm. No fines or enforcement actions were noted, and all prior complaint investigations were unsubstantiated. Overall, the record shows a period of strong compliance followed by some recent procedural gaps that warrant attention.

At Home Again Columbus is an ideal option for older adults seeking a smaller, established community with a consistent operating history. Its range of care options, encompassing independent living to memory care, makes it especially suitable for families seeking flexibility as needs change over time.

Overview of Eagle Point Senior Living

Eagle Point Senior Living is a self-administered senior living community in Appleton, Wisconsin, offering independent living, assisted living, and memory care since August 2018. The community is licensed with 65 beds, providing older adults in Outagamie County with personalized care in a larger setting. 

With an occupancy rate of approximately 77%, the community is currently serving 50 residents. The community also holds a clean compliance record based on the three standard inspections and two complaint-initiated visits conducted, of which two of the three inspections concluded with no deficiencies. Only two deficiencies were identified throughout the inspection cycle.

Following a three-tier care model, ranging from independent living to memory care, the community allows residents to receive different levels of care without the need to move out. To ensure quality of care in each level, residents are accommodated in designated floors or wings. A full activities calendar, family resource support, and gallery resources are also available to help older adults and families evaluate the community based on their needs and preferences. Older adults and families are also welcome to tour the community during standard operating hours, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with Saturday and Sunday appointments available. 

Best suited for those aiming to age in place even when their needs evolve and couples who prefer to stay together despite different levels of care needed, Eagles Point Senior Living has a full continuum of care options, ranging from independent living to memory care. The community also provides a strong compliance record, as well as consistent availability, appealing to those seeking immediate and flexible placements. 

Overview of Serenity Spring Senior Living at Scandia Village

Serenity Spring Senior Living at Scandia Village is a full continuum senior care community administered by Sister Bay CBRF OpCo LLC in Sister Bay, Wisconsin, offering comprehensive care options, including independent living, assisted living, long-term skilled nursing care, and post-acute rehabilitation. Featuring a 30-bed capacity in the beautiful lakeside community of Wisconsin, the community focuses on providing personalized care and in-house therapy services for older adults in Door County, while maintaining a home-like environment.

Operating at approximately 77% occupancy rate, the community is currently serving 23 residents per day. In line with the Wisconsin state average, availability is open for interested families. The community’s availability also benefits those seeking a placement near their homes, as there are limited options for senior care on the Door County peninsula.

The community has undergone two complaint-initiated inspections, one of which was followed by a re-inspection in September 2025, which confirmed that all deficiencies were corrected. With 2 deficiencies on its record, the community has a strong compliance record, which is ideal for families evaluating the quality of care, particularly one that accepts Medicare.

With a smaller scale, the community is considerably well-equipped, especially with its wide range of services, including a doctor on staff, skilled nursing, 24-hour staffing, rehabilitation services, and in-house therapy. The community’s Medicare-certified status, along with on-site physician services and skilled nursing coverage, makes it a practical option for older adults who require post-acute rehabilitation after hospitalization and those seeking long-term placements. Beyond Medicare, families are encouraged to ask the community directly for payment options, as Medicaid is not confirmed.

Since senior care options are limited in Doory County, Serenity Spring Senior Living at Scandia Village’s medically-capable, full continuum of care makes it an ideal option for families and older adults who value proximity and familiarity, along with quality care. The community’s smaller scale also allows for a more personal, relationship-centered care experience, while ensuring hands-on attention with a doctor-on-staff and certified nursing team. Short-term rehabilitation and long-term care are both provided, making it an ideal option for those with a variety of needs.

Quarry Ridge Retirement Community is an independent living community in Fitchburg, just outside Madison, Wisconsin. Sitting on the edge of countryside and urban convenience, it captivates occupants seeking the tranquility of nature alongside easy access to city amenities and attractions. Some services are reachable on foot in this somewhat walkable setting, and most activities demand transportation.

The home is built around all-inclusive retirement living, with three chef-prepared meals offered daily as an experience centerpiece. The Signature Freedom Dining program features an evolving menu that an on-site executive chef prepares using fresh ingredients and diet-conscious recipes. Residents can eat meals in common areas, request delivery to their rooms, or visit the chef’s pantry for snacks open 24/7. Weekly housekeeping and maintenance free residents from household upkeep. Apartment homes have three floor plans: studios ranging from 566 to 706 square feet, one-bedrooms from 588 to 1,013 square feet, and two-bedrooms up to 1,206 square feet. Each unit features full-sized kitchen appliances, climate-controlled thermostats, and ample closet space. Pets are warmly welcome for free. The facility centers on shared spaces designed for connection and relaxation. A 150-seat theater hosts movies and programs, while a library, billiards room, arcade, and conversation areas encourage occupants to engage with each other. A lounge with bar, fitness and exercise room, spa area, and business center complement the offerings. The on-site lifestyle director plans monthly events around these spaces, helping residents meet new people, learn new skills, and stay active. Woven throughout are safety and support. The community features a 24/7 emergency alert system, 24/7 concierge service, and live-in managers who serve as neighbors and are always offering help. Transportation services are provided, along with beauty services, parking, health programs, and building-wide Wi-Fi access. A unique travel program lets occupants visit other resort lifestyle communities locations for free, letting them explore while maintaining the comforts of home.

Overview of Primrose Retirement Community of Wausau

Primrose Retirement Community of Wausau is a senior living community, operated by TSMM Management, LLC, since July 2015 in Wausau, Wisconsin, that offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, and townhome villas. As part of a management company with multiple Primrose locations, the community utilizes a larger organizational framework within the locality. With nearly 10 years of operation in Marathon County, the community can accommodate up to 68 older adults. 

The community is a practical choice for long-term residence, as well as short-term post-acute recovery, especially with its rehabilitation and respite services. Those seeking an alternative home in a supportive community setting may also find the community’s townhome villas appealing. Aside from its comprehensive care options, the community also stands out for its amenities, as it has 16, and one of the most complete amenities compared to its competitors. These amenities include a wellness center, wellness programs, bistro, pub, billiard room, library, beauty shop/barbershop, chapel, and a TV lounge with a fireplace. Additionally, scheduled transportation, complimentary laundry facilities, individual climate control, and utilities, along with three home-cooked meals, are also included in the rate, allowing families to plan their budget accordingly. The community also appeals to those seeking pet-friendly accommodations, as pets are welcome. 

Primrose Wausau is ideal for older adults seeking a wide range of care, as it has comprehensive services, ranging from independent living to specialized memory support. With the combination of pet-friendly spaces, plenty of amenities, and included services, the community appeals to older adults and families who value comfort and care quality.

Overview of The Classic at Hillcrest Greens Memory Care

The Classic at Hillcrest Greens Memory Care is a specialized memory care community managed by The Classic at Hillcrest Greens LLC in Altoona, Wisconsin, within Eau Claire County. Licensed in July 2016, this 40-bed community has nearly a decade of dedicated experience supporting residents living with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, while functioning as part of a larger senior living campus that provides independent living and assisted living options alongside its memory care services.

As a focused memory care community, its services and amenities are tailored to meet the specific cognitive, environmental, and social requirements of memory-impaired residents. Along with memory care, the community’s programming also supports independent living transitions and assisted living. This structure allows families to plan for a progression of care over time under one roof.

Managed by a private LLC and serving Eau Claire County as a Class CNA non-ambulatory Community-Based Residential Care Facility, the community’s location near the Altoona city center provides easy access for those in the greater Eau Claire metro area.

The Classic at Hillcrest Greens Memory Care is ideally suited for those in the moderate to advanced stages of Alzheimer’s or dementia who require a secure, purpose-built environment with memory care-trained staff. The campus-style layout also provides a practical long-term solution for couples or families who may need different levels of support at the same time but prefer to stay in one place.

Overview of Cedar Crest Assisted Living

Cedar Crest Assisted Living is a faith-based, nonprofit retirement community operated by Cedar Crest Inc in Janesville, Wisconsin, offering a full spectrum of care, including assisted living, memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. Since opening its doors in April 1999, the community has dedicated over 25 years to supporting older adults in Rock County with a comprehensive 68-bed campus. Medicare is also accepted, ensuring that high-quality care remains accessible to a broad range of eligible residents.

With an occupancy rate of roughly 57%, the community has 39 of 68 beds occupied and has rooms available for immediate placement. This availability is a significant advantage for families seeking a supportive environment without waitlist delays. As a nonprofit with a faith-affiliated foundation, the community prioritizes a mission-driven approach, seamlessly integrating pastoral and spiritual programming into the rhythm of daily life.

The community is further distinguished by its impressive record of external recognition and regulatory excellence. It earned the 2025 U.S. News Best Nursing Homes designation for both Long-Term Care and Short-Term Rehabilitation, as well as the 2024 Gazette Best of the Best award. Additionally, the community has recorded only one deficiency, significantly lower than the Wisconsin state average of 12, which highlights its rigorous commitment to safety and compliance.

Promoting wellness and social connection for those 55+, the community has a robust suite of amenities, including activity rooms, a family social room, a beautiful courtyard, and lush gardens. An on-site chapel, a salon, a therapy and wellness center, fitness classes, a library, and walking trails are also available. Three chef-prepared meals are also served daily, with specific accommodations made for special dietary needs.

From 24-hour staffing and skilled nursing to respite care and specialized rehabilitation, Cedar Crest provides the clinical support that allows older adults to age in place comfortably. The community’s life enrichment and volunteer programs, combined with dedicated spiritual care, create a well-rounded environment for those who value both clinical expertise and social engagement. Whether you are an active adult seeking a faith-informed home or in need of short-term recovery following a hospital stay, Cedar Crest offers a supportive and welcoming environment.

Overview of Glenwood Senior Apartments

Located on 27th Avenue in the Saxony neighborhood of Kenosha, Wisconsin, Glenwood Senior Apartments is an independent living community for adults aged 55 and older. The community is the sister community of Villa Ciera. The three-story building offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Residents here have the privacy of their own home while having access to shared amenities and community activities.

The community is about 2.7 miles from downtown Kenosha and approximately 5.72 miles from Froedtert Pleasant Prairie Hospital, so hospital care is a short drive away when needed. The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 43, which is somewhat walkable. A few nearby shops and services can be reached on foot. Still, most errands and outings require a car or the community’s transportation service.

Residents can participate in staff-planned recreation and fitness programs, and there are other activities that encourage an active and social lifestyle. Shared amenities include a dining area, a lounge, a library, a fitness room, an on-site laundry room, and outdoor spaces with a backyard and courtyard. Pets are welcome, allowing residents to keep a companion animal after moving in.

Glenwood Senior Apartments is best suited for older adults who want to live independently while enjoying shared amenities, organized activities, and transportation support. Families considering the community may find this combination of private apartment living and community services practical for residents who do not need daily personal care.