Bay Harbor of Deforest

Bay Harbor of DeForest is a memory care and assisted living community operated by Darrin Companies LLC in DeForest, Wisconsin, in Dane County. Licensed in October 2022, the 40-bed community has approximately three years of operating experience. It focuses on serving residents with cognitive impairment as well as those needing assisted care, with an emphasis on safety features such as WanderGuard technology for individuals with memory-related conditions.

Serving 24 residents per day, the community’s current occupancy is about 60%, below the Wisconsin statewide average, which suggests more availability than at many comparable communities. Families are encouraged to confirm current openings directly.

Across 12 inspections, the community has accumulated 35 total deficiencies. The most recent verification visit on October 9, 2025, reported no deficiencies, which is a positive sign, although a $200 revisit fee was issued. Earlier inspections and complaint investigations under a previous operating name, The Koselig House, identified substantiated concerns such as resident abuse investigations, failure to report injuries, delays in care following falls, and environmental issues, resulting in more than $10,000 in forfeitures. No license suspensions have been recorded, but careful consideration is highly encouraged. While the most recent inspection indicates corrective steps have been taken, the prior history makes it important for families to discuss directly with management.

The community offers a thoughtfully designed amenity package with 13 features, including a lobby with a fireplace, bistro, library, internet café, multiple dining areas, outdoor patios, and an enclosed courtyard, a dedicated physical therapy room, and partnerships with external care providers. Three home-style meals daily is also provided as part of the residents’ stay. Activities include music, bingo, visiting entertainers, and therapy animals, along with a specialized Music and Memory Program that serves as a key differentiator in dementia care. Advanced care and respite care services are also available, along with pet-friendly spaces, housekeeping, and utilities.

Bay Harbor of DeForest is a strong option for families seeking memory care in a smaller, amenity-rich community in the Madison suburban area, particularly with its Music and Memory Program, which provides a meaningful, evidence-based approach to care. The recent deficiency-free inspection is also a good indicator of improvements.

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