Page 16 of Best Nursing Homes in Wisconsin

Operated by owner Suzanne Anderson, St. Mary’s Care Center is a faith-based nursing home in Madison’s Maple Grove neighborhood. As a 184-bed single-story community, it serves long-term care occupants and those in short-term rehabilitation post-illness or surgery. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted to provide families with multiple routes to arrange care. The facility has a typical average stay length of 275 days, indicating its mix of post-acute rehabilitation patients and those requiring active skilled nursing care. With a 58.7 percent occupancy rate, the home usually has availability for new residents.

Total nursing care averages 4 hours 43 minutes per resident day, delivered by registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, and certified nursing assistants working across daily shifts and weekends. The home leans toward rehabilitation and therapy services. It has physical, occupational, and speech therapy available, anchored by a staff comprising licensed therapists, therapy assistants, and respiratory technicians. Such services help residents regain mobility and independence after a hospital stay or health event. Also available are on-site medical services and dental care, lessening the need for outside appointments. Daily life centers on keeping occupants engaged and active. The home offers recreational activities and light exercises tailored to maintain physical fitness and social connection. Residents and family members have regular opportunities to meet in their own groups to discuss policies, care quality, and community activities. The neighborhood surrounding the facility has a Walk Score of 43, meaning some nearby services are walkable, though most trips need transportation. The one-story building design helps with accessibility within the property. The community is about 6.5 miles from Madison’s city center, in a quiet residential area on Maple Grove Drive.

Overview of Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge

A monthly rate between $694 and $1,154 is the figure most families will want to understand first, and it sets the frame for everything else about Oakwood Village Prairie Ridge. This 206-bed community in Madison, Wisconsin, offers assisted living, memory care, and hospice care, and it does not accept Medicare or Medicaid. Costs are covered by residents through private funding. That is a structural fact about who this community is built for, and it belongs at the front of any honest evaluation.

The location is car-dependent, with a Walk Score of 13, about 10.9 miles from Madison’s city center. UW Health E Terrace Dr Medical Center sits less than a mile away, which matters for a community serving residents with memory care and hospice needs. The facility has been operating for 26 years and holds 206 beds.

What stands out in the amenity structure is how much is bundled into residency. Utilities, including water, sewer, gas, and electricity, are covered. So are scheduled housekeeping, daily check-ins, scheduled transportation, a personal emergency response pendant, social worker access, and spiritual care programming. Heated underground parking, additional storage, snow removal, exterior window washing, and grounds maintenance are all included. Property and liability insurance comes with the package. Religious services are available, and residents are given priority access to advanced care levels if needs escalate over time.

Oakwood Village East Apartment Homes Inc operates the community. For families financing care privately and prioritizing an assisted living setting that includes memory care and hospice under one roof, the amenity structure here is more inclusive than most in its price range.

Overview of Brookdale Kenosha

Nestled in Kenosha, Wisconsin, Brookdale Kenosha offers a personalized memory care experience for individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. The community’s person-centered approach ensures that each resident can continue to live with a sense of belonging, purpose, and dignity.Brookdale Kenosha’s safe and supportive environment, combined with its personalized care programs, helps residents feel a sense of security and purpose. The community’s experienced staff is available 24/7 to provide attentive support and respond to emergencies.

Residents at Brookdale Kenosha engage in a variety of dementia-friendly activities, including music programs, pet therapy, games, and outings, all designed to foster a sense of meaning and enjoyment. The community’s specialized dining program also addresses the unique nutritional needs of those living with dementia. By prioritizing the well-being and quality of life of its residents, Brookdale Kenosha empowers individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia to preserve their identity and live their best lives, even as they navigate the complexities of their condition.

Overview of The Bay at Belmont Health and Rehabilitation Center

The Bay at Belmont Health and Rehabilitation Center stands as one of the premier health and rehabilitation centers in Madison. It’s a comprehensive community that presents a resort-like lifestyle with its world-class hospitality offered to each unique individual with personal needs. The health and rehabilitation center’s nursing approach is focused on comprehensive therapies that contribute to a speedy recovery. The Bay creates an atmosphere where residents thrive and is enriched with quality skilled nursing care offered.  

The Bay offers a range of skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, outpatient therapy, long-term care, and memory care services. Amenities include a library, a courtyard, a family visitation room, daily meals provided, and a hair salon. 

Overview of Edenbrook of Platteville

Edenbrook of Platteville is a skilled nursing community managed by administrator Katherine Batton and certified by CMS under license number 525299 in Platteville, Wisconsin, providing long-term care and post-acute rehabilitation in a community-oriented setting. The community operates 80 licensed beds in Winnebago County under a private partnership ownership structure.

The community performs at or above Wisconsin state averages in most categories, with an overall CMS rating of 3 out of 5 stars that aligns with the state average. Its health inspection score of 3 out of 5 stars is slightly better than the state benchmark of 2.8, while quality measures earned a 4 out of 5 stars, which is notably higher than the state average. This indicates that clinical health outcomes, including mobility improvements and the management of falls or hospital readmissions, are handled effectively. Staffing is rated at 3 out of 5 stars, with residents receiving approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes of nursing care per day, slightly below the state average, but it is common for skilled nursing communities that serve a diverse resident population.

Accommodating a balanced mix of long-term care residents and those requiring short-term rehabilitation, the community maintains an occupancy rate of around 68%. Additionally, approximately 49% of admissions are private pay, 40% are funded through Medicaid, and 11% consist of Medicare-covered rehabilitation stays.

Edenbrook of Platteville is an excellent fit for those who require post-acute rehabilitation, particularly those moving from a hospital setting back to their homes. It is also a reliable choice for those seeking long-term skilled nursing in a local setting, especially with its high-quality measures score. The community’s short-term and long-term services also make it a practical option for those planning placements.

Overview of Capitol Lakes

Capitol Lakes is a trusted continuing care retirement community in Madison, WI, that offers comprehensive care options, including assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. With its nurturing and home-like environment, the community guarantees a comfortable and safe retirement for older adults and those with cognitive conditions. Residents also have a maintenance-free lifestyle, as three nutritious meals daily, weekly housekeeping, and medication management are also provided. The community strives to meet residents’ unique needs and preferences through its purposefully designed spaces and personalized care plans.

Aqua movement classes, music programs, and social events provide residents with more opportunities to explore new hobbies and connect with friends. Art galleries featuring local artists and residents’ works, an indoor pool, and a beautiful garden are among the state-of-the-art utilities dedicated to residents’ leisure and wellness. Set in the peaceful residential area of Madison, near the Wisconsin State Capitol and public transportation, the community guarantees accessibility and convenience. As a great choice for senior living in Wisconsin, this retirement community ensures older adults can age in place.

Overview of Brookdale Sussex

Brookdale Sussex offers an exceptional assisted living experience in a quaint residential neighborhood of Sussex, Wisconsin. This community provides residents with the perfect balance of independence and personalized care, allowing them to fully embrace the joys of retirement. Located near downtown Milwaukee and the shores of Lake Michigan, Brookdale Sussex combines small-town charm with convenient access to metropolitan amenities. Residents can enjoy the community’s attentive service, comfortable accommodations, and a wide range of amenities, including a robust activity calendar and restaurant-style dining.

The assisted living program at Brookdale Sussex is tailored to each resident’s needs, with trained caregivers providing support with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and mobility. This personalized approach empowers residents to maintain their independence while enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle. The community’s activity calendar is filled with opportunities for socialization, learning, and personal growth, from fitness classes and happy hours to resident council meetings and cultural outings. Residents can also savor delicious, chef-inspired meals made from seasonal ingredients, with options for special dietary needs. With its convenient location, exceptional amenities, and personalized care, Brookdale Sussex offers a retirement experience that combines the best of small-town living with the comforts and conveniences of a modern senior community.

Overview of Saint John‘s on the Lake

Saint John’s on the Lake is an upscale retirement community in Milwaukee, WI, that offers a wide range of care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation. With a variety of beautiful apartments in a nurturing and welcoming environment, the community ensures older adults can live comfortably during their stay. Residents also experience maintenance-free living, with high-quality services, including 24-hour emergency response, maintenance services, and flexible dining options. The community is also committed to improving residents’ quality of life through personalized care plans.

Cultural activities, arts and crafts, and exercises provide residents with more opportunities to explore new interests and gain meaningful experiences. A wellness center, a whirlpool, and a library are among the top-notch amenities provided for residents’ leisure and wellness. Museums, restaurants, and public transportation are also located nearby, ensuring accessibility and convenience. This retirement community strives to help older adults age gracefully, making it a great choice for senior living in Wisconsin.

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.

Overview of Wood Aven Health and Rehabilitation

Wood Aven Health and Rehabilitation is a for-profit skilled nursing and rehabilitation community owned by River Hawk Healthcare LLC and managed by administrator Sarah Petry under the Ensign Services network in Wausau, Wisconsin. With 82 licensed beds, the community provides 24-hour skilled nursing, long-term care, and short-term rehabilitation services in Marathon County. The community also accepts both Medicaid and Medicare, which provides insurance flexibility for new residents.

By being part of the Ensign Services portfolio, the community benefits from the staffing standards, clinical systems, and quality accountability frameworks of a professional multi-site healthcare operator. Additionally, this affiliation adds a layer of operational oversight and credibility. Its location in Wausau also ensures the community is centrally accessible for families living across Marathon County and central Wisconsin.

Along with a comprehensive care program, encompassing skilled nursing, rehabilitation therapy, and an on-staff physician, the community also follows a specific staffing model designed to support residents who have complex and ongoing medical needs. The 24-hour staffing structure also provides continuous clinical oversight, while the “Stay Active” programming reflects its dedication to residents’ mobility and engagement.

Wood Aven Health and Rehabilitation is an ideal option for those in the Wausau area who require short-term post-acute rehabilitation, long-term nursing care, or skilled nursing after hospitalization. The combination of 24-hour nursing, rehabilitation services, and on-site physician access also appeals to those with medically complex needs requiring close monitoring. Accepting both Medicare and Medicaid, the community is a practical choice for families looking for a stable and professionally managed skilled nursing community in central Wisconsin.