Choosing an assisted living setting for a parent is a big decision that can feel confusing, especially when you start seeing different license types. Many families search for rcac vs cbrf wisconsin to understand which model provides the right care, privacy, and budget fit. This guide explains the differences between a Residential Care Apartment Complex, often called an RCAC, and a Community-Based Residential Facility, known as a CBRF, so you can make a confident choice. If you need personal guidance, the team at Great Lakes Senior Living is here to help you compare options and navigate the next steps.

What Do RCAC and CBRF Mean in Wisconsin?

RCAC at a Glance

An RCAC, or Residential Care Apartment Complex, offers apartment-style living for adults who want independence with access to supportive services. Residents get private apartments, usually with a kitchenette, living area, and private bathroom. The RCAC model focuses on privacy and choice while still providing help with daily living tasks and health services. Wisconsin regulations cap the amount of supportive, personal, and nursing services that an RCAC can provide to a resident. In most situations that limit is up to 28 hours per week, which helps define the level of care an RCAC can deliver on site. RCACs often appeal to older adults who are largely independent, value a home-like apartment, and want a safety net of staff assistance, emergency response, and community amenities.

CBRF at a Glance

A CBRF, or Community-Based Residential Facility, provides a higher level of daily support and supervision. Living spaces may be private or shared rooms rather than full apartments with kitchens. The focus is on hands-on assistance, structured support, and close oversight. CBRFs are designed for residents who need more frequent help with medications, mobility, personal care, or cognitive support. Many specialized memory care programs in Wisconsin operate under a CBRF license. These settings can include secured areas to support safety for people living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. CBRFs maintain staff on site around the clock and offer a care plan that adapts as needs change.

Key Differences: rcac vs cbrf wisconsin

Both RCAC and CBRF communities are regulated by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. They share a commitment to safety, quality, and resident rights, but their structure and care scope differ. Understanding these differences helps families match a parent’s needs to the right environment.

• Housing style: RCAC units are individual apartments with private bathrooms and kitchenettes. CBRF residences typically include private or companion rooms, with meals served in common dining areas.
• Level of independence: RCAC works best for seniors who want more independence and can manage portions of their day. CBRF supports those who need continual oversight and hands-on help.
• Service scope: RCAC services are generally limited by a weekly cap, often up to 28 hours. CBRF services can be more intensive and frequent, making it suitable for higher care needs.
• Staffing: RCACs provide access to staff and emergency response 24 hours a day. CBRFs maintain continuous supervision with staff on site at all times to provide care.
• Medication management: RCACs can assist with medication reminders and administration within regulations. CBRFs typically offer more comprehensive medication management and monitoring.
• Dementia and memory care: RCACs can support residents with mild cognitive changes. CBRFs are often the better fit for moderate to advanced dementia, especially when a secured environment is necessary.
• Skilled nursing: RCACs can coordinate outside services such as home health or hospice. CBRFs can handle higher daily care needs, though neither setting is the same as a skilled nursing facility.
• Admission and discharge: If a resident’s care needs exceed RCAC limits, a transition to CBRF or another setting may be recommended. CBRF offers greater flexibility for increasing care needs without a move.

Who Is a Good Fit for Each Setting?

Best Fit for RCAC

An RCAC suits an older adult who wants a private apartment and values independence but appreciates the reassurance of support. They may need help with some daily tasks while still managing most routines.

• Able to manage most activities of daily living with minimal support
• Prefers apartment privacy with kitchen access for light meal preparation
• Benefits from medication reminders and periodic health checks
• Enjoys social activities but wants quiet personal space
• Has mild or early-stage memory issues that do not require secured care

Best Fit for CBRF

A CBRF is ideal for a parent who needs frequent hands-on help, closer monitoring, or a structured routine for safety. It supports changing medical and cognitive needs more readily than an RCAC.

• Needs daily assistance with dressing, bathing, toileting, or mobility
• Requires comprehensive medication administration and monitoring
• Lives with moderate to advanced dementia or has safety risks such as wandering
• Benefits from 24-hour staff presence with consistent oversight
• Might need a secured environment for memory care

Care Services and Lifestyle Supports

Common Services in RCAC

RCAC residents can expect a service plan designed around independence with targeted help for comfort and safety.

• Private apartments with a kitchenette and private bathroom
• Housekeeping, laundry, and meal plans
• Help with bathing, grooming, or dressing on a schedule
• Medication reminders or administration within regulatory limits
• Wellness checks and coordination with outside health providers
• 24-hour response to urgent needs
• Lifestyle programming such as exercise, arts, and social events

Common Services in CBRF

CBRF residents receive a higher level of daily support and supervision with a focus on safety, health, and comfort.

• Private or companion rooms with access to shared spaces
• Three daily meals with special diets when ordered
• Hands-on assistance with all activities of daily living
• Comprehensive medication management
• Care planning that adapts to increased needs
• 24-hour staff presence and supervision
• Specialized memory care programming, often in secure areas

Costs and Funding in Wisconsin

The cost comparison for rcac vs cbrf wisconsin varies based on location, apartment or room size, and the level of care needed. As a general rule, the more hands-on support and supervision a resident needs, the higher the monthly rate may be. RCAC pricing often includes an apartment rate plus a care package or point-based fees. CBRF pricing typically includes room and board plus a tiered care level based on assessed needs.

Based on statewide patterns, many Wisconsin families see RCAC base rates begin in the low to mid 4,000s per month, with care services adding to the total. CBRF and memory care programs commonly range higher due to staffing and specialized support. Exact rates differ by community and change over time. A tour and assessment is the best way to receive an accurate quote tailored to your parent’s needs.

Funding options to explore include private pay, long-term care insurance, Veterans benefits such as Aid and Attendance, and Wisconsin Medicaid home and community-based waivers. Some RCACs are registered for private pay only, while others are certified to work with public funding programs. CBRFs may accept Family Care or IRIS depending on their contracts. Every situation is unique, so it helps to speak with the community and your county aging resource center to confirm eligibility and coverage.

How Great Lakes Senior Living Supports Your Choice

Great Lakes Senior Living is a trusted provider serving Wisconsin families since 2001, with communities in Beloit, Milton, and Waterford. Each location holds Diamond Accreditation from the Wisconsin Assisted Living Association, a mark of excellence that reflects strong standards, compassionate service, and continuous improvement.

Our services include assisted living and memory care. Residents enjoy comfortable one or two bedroom apartment homes in our assisted living programs, plus access to caring staff who provide help as needed. For individuals living with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, our dedicated memory care teams deliver person centered support with dignity, patience, and reassurance. Across all settings, we offer activities that nurture the whole person, from stretch classes and art to social events that bring neighbors together.

Because we operate within Wisconsin’s assisted living framework, our team can explain how RCAC and CBRF approaches work in practice, what each license type allows, and which option best aligns with your parent’s current needs and goals. We take the time to listen, assess, and recommend the right step, even if the best match is a different care setting or a service partner. Your peace of mind is our priority.

Our Wisconsin Locations

Beloit Senior Living and The Gardens, 2250 W Hart Rd, Beloit, WI 53511

Milton Senior Living, 600 W Sunset Dr, Milton, WI 53563

Waterford Senior Living and Memory Care, 301 S. 6th St, Waterford, WI 53185

We invite you to visit any of our locations to see apartments and suites, meet our team, and experience our warm, welcoming atmosphere. Many families tell us that a tour makes the differences between rcac vs cbrf wisconsin much clearer and helps them feel confident about next steps.

Questions to Ask When Touring

Bring this list to your visits so you can compare communities side by side and make the decision that fits your parent and your family.

• Which license type is this building, and what care levels can it provide now and over time
• How are service hours tracked and adjusted as needs change
• Is there 24 hour staff presence, and how do residents call for help
• How is medication management handled, and who oversees it
• What training does the team receive in dementia care and behavioral support
• Are apartments private, and what is included in the base rate
• What are the total monthly costs, including care, supplies, and potential add-ons
• Does the community accept Family Care, IRIS, VA benefits, or long-term care insurance
• What happens if needs increase beyond the current license limits
• What is the process for move in assessments and care planning