1. Introduction and Overview

Capri Communities, headquartered at 20875 Crossroads Cir #400, Waukesha, WI 53186, is a prominent player in the senior living sector in southeastern Wisconsin. With over two decades of experience, Capri operates multiple communities across the region, offering a comprehensive range of care options designed to meet the diverse needs of seniors.

Key Facts:

• Founded: Over 20 years ago
• Service Area: Southeastern Wisconsin
• Number of Communities: Multiple locations including Wilson Commons and Summit Woods in Waukesha
• Care Levels: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing (in select locations)

2. Services and Care Options

Capri Communities provides a full continuum of care, allowing residents to transition between different levels of support as their needs change:

Specialized Care Services:

• On-site Medical Partnerships: Collaborations with local hospitals and healthcare providers ensure residents have access to expert medical attention when needed.
• Wellness Programs: State-of-the-art Wellness Centers offer a range of programs including specialized classes for conditions like Parkinson’s disease.
• Therapy Services: Comprehensive rehabilitation programs including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.

3. Amenities and Daily Life

Capri Communities offers a rich array of amenities designed to enhance residents’ quality of life:

Facility Amenities:

• Restaurant-style dining rooms with chef-inspired meals
• Fitness centers with organized classes
• Creative arts studios
• Libraries and reading areas
• Beauty salons/barber shops
• Landscaped gardens and outdoor walking paths
• Unique features like resident-operated breweries in some communities

Apartment Features:

• Modern kitchens with stainless-steel appliances
• In-unit washer/dryers
• High-speed internet and climate control systems
• Private patios (in select units)

Activities and Engagement:

Capri Communities emphasizes a vibrant social life with various clubs, classes, and events. A typical week might include:

• Morning exercise classes
• Art workshops
• Cooking demonstrations
• Game nights
• Educational lectures
• Local outings and excursions

Actionable Recommendation: When touring a Capri community, request a sample monthly activity calendar and ask to observe ongoing activities. This will give you a clearer picture of the daily life and engagement opportunities for residents. Pay special attention to the variety of activities offered and how they cater to different interests and abilities.

4. Resident Experiences and Satisfaction

Our analysis of resident feedback reveals a mixed but generally positive sentiment towards Capri Communities:

Positive Aspects Highlighted by Residents:

• Strong sense of community and encouragement for social interaction
• High-quality care and attentive staff
• Diverse range of activities and amenities
• Clean and well-maintained living spaces

Areas for Consideration:

• Some concerns about staffing levels during peak times
• Occasional communication challenges reported by families
• Mixed feedback on food quality

Testimonial: “My dad loves living at Ballard Glenn. He gets so much attention from the staff and he’s treated like a real person, not just a number. Our family has been informed of all the changes in his health as he battles multiple conditions, and we’re partners in his care.” – Wendy B., Family Member

Actionable Recommendation: When considering Capri Communities, arrange to speak with current residents and their families outside of scheduled tour times. Ask about their day-to-day experiences, particularly regarding:

1. Staff responsiveness during different times of day
2. Quality and variety of meals
3. Effectiveness of communication between staff and families
4. Favorite activities and any suggestions for improvement
   This firsthand feedback will provide valuable insights beyond official ratings and reviews.

5. Pricing Structure and Financial Considerations

Capri Communities offers various pricing options to accommodate different needs and financial situations:

Current Rates (2024):

Additional Financial Considerations:

• Refundable Plans: 80% refundable entrance fee option available
• Rental Plans: Non-refundable deposit options (e.g., $24,000)
• Care Services: Base rates include up to 3 hours of daily care; additional care priced separately

Actionable Recommendation: To fully understand the financial implications:

1. Request a detailed, itemized pricing sheet from Capri Communities, including:
   • Base rates for different levels of care
   • Additional costs for specialized services or amenities
   • Any one-time fees (e.g., community fees, admission fees)
   • Potential rate increase schedules
2. Discuss scenarios where care needs might change and how this would affect pricing.
3. Inquire about financial assistance programs or sliding scale fees based on individual circumstances.
4. Consider consulting with a financial advisor to understand the long-term implications of the different payment options, especially the refundable entrance fee model.

6. Comparison with Local Alternatives

To provide context, here’s how Capri Communities compares to other highly-rated facilities in the Waukesha area:

Key Differentiators of Capri Communities:

1. Comprehensive Care Continuum: Offers a full range of care options from independent living to skilled nursing, allowing residents to age in place.
2. Extensive Wellness Programs: State-of-the-art Wellness Centers with innovative equipment and specialized classes.
3. Strong Community Engagement: Active involvement in local events and initiatives, fostering a sense of connection with the broader Waukesha community.
4. Unique Amenities: Features like resident-operated breweries in some communities set Capri apart from typical senior living facilities.

Actionable Recommendation: When comparing facilities:

1. Create a checklist of your most important criteria (e.g., care levels, amenities, activities, pricing) and use it to evaluate each facility.
2. Schedule tours of at least 3-4 facilities to compare environments, staff interactions, and overall atmosphere firsthand.
3. Speak with residents and family members at each facility to get unfiltered feedback on daily life and care quality.
4. Consider both current and potential future care needs when evaluating the suitability of each facility.

7. Community Reputation and Recognition

Capri Communities has established a strong reputation in the Waukesha area, evidenced by several awards and recognitions:

1. Top Choice Awards: Recognized as the #1 Senior Living Company and #1 Assisted Living Company in Southeastern Wisconsin by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel’s annual Top Choice Awards for multiple consecutive years.
2. Employee Recognition: Hosts the “Jimmy Awards,” an internal awards program that celebrates staff members who exemplify the organization’s mission and values. This initiative highlights Capri’s commitment to employee satisfaction and quality care.
3. Community Engagement: Known for active involvement in local events and philanthropic initiatives. In 2024, Capri Communities awarded $100,000 in grants to six local agencies through their Community Resource Fund.
4. Innovation in Health and Safety: Implemented advanced health measures, such as Needlepoint Bipolar Ionization systems, which effectively eliminate airborne bacteria and viruses, demonstrating a commitment to resident well-being.

Actionable Recommendation: To gain a deeper understanding of Capri Communities’ impact and reputation:

1. During your tour, ask about recent community engagement initiatives and how residents can participate in local events.
2. Inquire about partnerships with local institutions and how these benefit residents.
3. Request information on any recent awards or recognitions, and ask how these accolades translate to improved resident care or experiences.
4. Speak with current residents about their experiences with community integration and the opportunities available to stay connected with the broader Waukesha area.

8. Conclusion and Final Recommendations

Capri Communities offers a comprehensive senior living experience with a strong focus on providing a continuum of care in a vibrant, engaging environment. Its strengths lie in its extensive wellness programs, diverse amenities, and strong community connections. However, as with any senior living decision, careful consideration and personal investigation are crucial.

Final Actionable Steps:

1. Schedule Multiple Visits: Arrange tours at different times of day, including weekends and evenings, to get a comprehensive view of the facility’s operations and resident care.
2. Engage with Current Residents: During your visits, make an effort to speak with current residents and their families about their experiences, both positive and challenging.
3. Review Detailed Pricing: Request a comprehensive breakdown of costs, including potential future increases and any additional fees for services or amenities.
4. Assess Care Transition Processes: Inquire about how the facility manages transitions between different levels of care, as this is a key advantage of the CCRC model.
5. Evaluate Activity Programs: Request a current activities calendar and ask about opportunities for residents to suggest or lead activities that interest them.
6. Consider Future Needs: Reflect on how Capri Communities’ range of services aligns with potential future health needs and preferences.
7. Consult Healthcare Providers: If possible, discuss the facility with your current healthcare providers to ensure it can meet any specific medical needs.
8. Review Legal Documents: Carefully review all contracts and agreements, possibly with the help of a legal professional specializing in elder care.

By thoroughly investigating these aspects, you’ll be well-equipped to determine if Capri Communities aligns with your specific care needs, lifestyle preferences, and long-term senior living goals. Remember, the right choice balances quality of care, lifestyle fit, and long-term financial sustainability.