Saint John’s On The Lake is Milwaukee’s most distinctive continuing care community located in downtown Milwaukee overlooking the bluffs of Lake Michigan. Saint John’s campus offers a variety of independent living apartment homes, private assisted living, memory support, and skilled nursing care suites. The location offers both breathtaking lake and city views from many vantage points. In part, residents choose Saint John’s because they value the convenience of city living – being near everything that Milwaukee has to offer. Residents also appreciate the wide range of services, events, and activities curated just for them. With a legacy of over 157 years of serving older adults, Episcopal roots, and a commitment to resident-directed care, Saint John’s is as an inclusive and diverse community known for its on-going innovation and its exclusive, licensed Life Care – a long-term care insurance product.

Services Offered

Independent Living

• Maintenance-free apartments and residences
• Multiple floor plans including studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom options
• Stunning lake and city views
• Focus on active lifestyle and wellness
• Life Care contract option providing security for future healthcare needs

Assisted Living

• Professional assistance with activities of daily living
• Medication management services
• 24-hour supervision and emergency call system
• Personalized care plans
• Maintenance of independence with appropriate support

Memory Care

• Specialized care for residents with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia
• Secure environment designed for cognitive needs
• Trained staff in memory support techniques
• Structured activities tailored to cognitive abilities
• Person-centered approach to care

Skilled Nursing Care

• 24-hour professional nursing care
• Rehabilitation services
• Long-term care for chronic conditions
• Post-acute care following hospitalization
• Comprehensive medical services

Rehabilitation

• Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
• Recovery programs after surgery or illness
• Goal-oriented rehabilitation plans
• Transition support back to lower levels of care

Amenities and Features

Saint John’s on the Lake offers an impressive array of amenities designed to enhance residents’ quality of life:

Community Spaces

• Fitness center with exercise equipment
• Warm-water pool
• Library and computer lounge
• Beautifully landscaped gardens overlooking Lake Michigan
• Multiple dining venues with gourmet options
• Movie room
• Art gallery featuring Museum of Wisconsin Art (MOWA) exhibitions
• Game rooms and activity spaces
• Beauty salon/barbershop
• Wellness center

Residence Features

• Washer and dryer in units
• Cable TV
• Wi-Fi/internet access
• Independent temperature controls
• Kitchenettes or full kitchens (depending on residence type)
• Option to personalize and decorate living spaces
• Large windows with spectacular views

The community’s location provides convenient access to medical facilities, with Columbia St. Marys Hospital Milwaukee just 0.7 miles away and numerous other healthcare facilities nearby.

Daily Activities and Lifestyle

Saint John’s on the Lake emphasizes a vibrant, engaging lifestyle through its LifeStreams Wellness Program, which addresses seven dimensions of wellness:

• Emotional well-being
• Environmental engagement
• Intellectual stimulation
• Occupational fulfillment
• Physical fitness
• Social connection
• Spiritual growth

Daily activities and programs include:

• Fitness classes and exercise programs
• Educational lectures and classes
• Wine tastings and culinary events
• Cultural outings to Milwaukee’s many attractions
• Arts programs, including access to the on-site MOWA gallery
• Musical performances and concerts
• Book clubs and discussion groups
• Religious and spiritual services
• Social gatherings and community events

The community is known for its active resident council and resident-led activities, fostering a strong sense of community ownership and engagement.

Resident Testimonials

Saint John’s on the Lake has received positive feedback from residents and their families, earning a strong resident review score of 8.7 out of 10 and ranking as the #1 most loved community in Milwaukee, WI according to Family Assets.

Residents and families particularly appreciate:

• “The welcoming and supportive environment”
• “The variety of activities and social events, particularly the music events”
• “Delicious dining options, including plant-based meals”
• “The beautiful setting and facilities, such as the new buildings, pool, and gym which they liken to top spas”
• “The staff’s friendliness, dedication, and efforts to maintain residents’ well-being and morale”

One reviewer noted that “this community embraces diversity and makes everyone feel welcome, reflecting its Episcopal tradition of inclusivity.” Another expressed relief knowing that “their parents were living in such a supportive environment, which helped their family transition through difficult times.”

The community has a rating of 6.8 out of 10 on Seniorly, based on their proprietary scoring system that evaluates quality and consistency of care.

Pricing Information

Saint John’s on the Lake offers various pricing options depending on the level of care and accommodation type:

• Starting price: $2,475 per month
• Maximum price: $8,429 per month
• Average monthly cost: $5,452

The community offers two contract types:

• Life Care contract – Provides security in planning for future health care needs while protecting financial resources
• Standard contract – May better suit certain budget and estate planning needs

This pricing is considered premium (“$$$”) for the Milwaukee area, reflecting the upscale nature of the community and its extensive amenities. Additional services may increase the cost of care depending on individual needs.

Cost Analysis and Financial Planning

Understanding the financial landscape of senior living in Milwaukee is crucial for families considering Saint John’s on the Lake. The median cost of assisted living in the Milwaukee area is $6,183 a month according to Genworth’s 2023 Cost of Care Study, which is $833 higher than the national median of $5,350.

Saint John’s starting price of approximately $2,475 positions it competitively at the entry level, though the maximum pricing reflects its luxury positioning. The Life Care contract option provides particular value for those concerned about future healthcare costs, as it locks in pricing structures and guarantees access to higher levels of care without the uncertainty of market-rate increases.

For families considering the financial commitment, it’s important to factor in:

• The potential for cost increases with higher levels of care
• The value of the Life Care contract’s long-term security
• Comparison with other Milwaukee-area facilities
• The comprehensive nature of services included in base pricing

Episcopal Heritage and Values

Saint John’s on the Lake operates under Episcopal Church values, which significantly influences its approach to resident care and community culture. This heritage manifests in several ways:

• Emphasis on inclusivity and welcoming all residents regardless of background
• Active chaplaincy services and interfaith programming
• Strong commitment to serving the broader community
• Values-based approach to elder care that prioritizes dignity and respect

The Episcopal foundation creates an atmosphere where spiritual exploration is encouraged but never required, making it comfortable for residents of all faith backgrounds or those who prefer secular living environments.

Admission Process and Wait Lists

Prospective residents should be prepared for a comprehensive admission process that may include:

• Financial qualification review
• Health assessment and care needs evaluation
• Community interview and tour process
• Waiting list placement for preferred residence types

Given Saint John’s reputation as Milwaukee’s “#1 most loved” senior community, popular floor plans and care levels may have waiting periods. Families are encouraged to begin the exploration process well in advance of anticipated move-in dates.

Staff Qualifications and Training

One reviewer noted the facility has the “highest level of training and standards for staff”, which contributes significantly to the quality of care. The community maintains rigorous hiring standards and provides ongoing professional development to ensure staff can meet the diverse needs of residents across all care levels.

Key staffing elements include:

• Licensed nursing staff available 24/7
• Specialized memory care training for dementia support staff
• Professional rehabilitation therapists
• Certified nursing assistants with geriatric expertise
• Activities coordinators with programming experience

Health and Safety Standards

Saint John’s on the Lake maintains comprehensive health and safety protocols, including:

• Regular state inspections and compliance monitoring
• Emergency preparedness plans
• Infection control procedures
• Medication management oversight
• Fall prevention programs
• 24-hour emergency response systems

The facility’s proximity to Columbia St. Mary’s Hospital provides additional peace of mind for residents and families regarding emergency medical care access.

Comparison with Other Milwaukee Area Facilities

When comparing Saint John’s on the Lake to other senior living communities in the Milwaukee area:

Saint John’s on the Lake distinguishes itself with:

• Competitive starting price despite luxury positioning
• Full continuum of care allowing residents to age in place
• Premium location with Lake Michigan views
• Luxury amenities comparable to “top spas” according to reviewers
• Strong reputation as Milwaukee’s “#1 most loved” senior community

Transportation and Location Benefits

The community’s downtown Milwaukee location on North Prospect Avenue provides residents with numerous advantages:

• Walking distance to Lake Michigan shoreline and parks
• Easy access to Milwaukee’s cultural attractions
• Proximity to multiple healthcare facilities
• Public transportation connections
• Shopping and dining options nearby
• Close to Milwaukee Art Museum and other cultural venues

This urban setting allows residents to maintain connections with the broader Milwaukee community while enjoying the security and services of the senior living environment.

Technology and Modern Conveniences

Saint John’s on the Lake incorporates modern technology to enhance resident experience:

• Wi-Fi throughout the community
• Computer lounges with internet access
• Modern communication systems for emergency response
• Updated medical equipment in healthcare areas
• Digital programming for activities and events

The community balances traditional elegance with contemporary conveniences to meet the expectations of today’s seniors.

Dining Programs and Nutrition

The community’s dining program extends beyond basic meal service to include:

• Multiple dining venues with varied atmospheres
• Gourmet meal preparation
• Plant-based and special dietary accommodations
• Wine tastings and culinary events
• Restaurant-style service in main dining areas
• Grab-and-go options for active residents

Nutrition counseling and dietary support are available for residents with specific health needs or preferences.

Family Engagement and Support

Saint John’s on the Lake recognizes the importance of family involvement in resident care and satisfaction:

• Regular family events and communication
• Support groups for families navigating senior care decisions
• Educational programs about aging and health topics
• Open visiting policies that encourage family participation
• Family advisory councils that provide input on community decisions

Planning Your Visit

When considering Saint John’s on the Lake, families should plan comprehensive visits that include:

• Tours of different residence types and care areas
• Meals in the dining venues
• Participation in activities or programs
• Meetings with key staff members
• Conversations with current residents and families
• Review of contracts and pricing structures
• Assessment of care level matching with current and projected needs

Summary

Saint John’s on the Lake represents a premier senior living option in Milwaukee with a full spectrum of care services from independent living through skilled nursing. The community’s strengths include its stunning lakefront location, comprehensive amenities, active lifestyle programming, and reputation for quality care.

The Life Care contract option provides residents with security for future healthcare needs, though the pricing structure reflects the upscale nature of the community. With strong resident satisfaction ratings and a range of residence options, Saint John’s on the Lake is particularly well-suited to seniors seeking an elegant, active lifestyle with access to continuing care as needs change.

Recent reviews highlight that “there are so many offerings of activities that there is absolutely something for everyone” and that “the staff are wonderful and really care about the residents”, reinforcing the community’s reputation for comprehensive programming and compassionate care.

For families exploring senior living options in Milwaukee, Saint John’s on the Lake offers a distinctive combination of location, amenities, and care services that has earned it recognition as one of the area’s most prestigious communities. The Episcopal heritage provides an additional dimension of values-based care that emphasizes inclusivity and dignity for all residents.

Prospective residents are encouraged to tour the facility, sample the dining options, speak with current residents, and carefully review the financial options to fully appreciate the Saint John’s experience and determine if it aligns with their senior living goals and budget considerations.