Arc House in Madison, WI

Information last verified:

202 North Paterson Street, Madison, WI 53703

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4 from 4 reviews
5 stars
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Overall Review of Arc House

Pros

  • pro It is the only place that offers child care, which the reviewer appreciates.
  • pro The therapy staff is absolutely amazing.
  • pro It would be an amazing resource once things are done correctly.
  • pro The reviewer had the best experience at MIP House for outpatient care.

Cons

  • pro They report that the 18-month-old contracted RSV from the ARC clinic’s child care center.
  • pro They spent two days in the hospital, six days with a high fever, and nearly a week with less than four hours of sleep per night.
  • pro The baby went from energetic and happy to miserable and hardly getting out of bed, and the toddler has little energy to play.
  • pro They believe ARC could be a huge benefit if children's safety were ensured, which they say is not the case.
  • pro They state they will never bring their child back and regret having brought him there.
  • pro They say the clinic’s apology did not come with concrete actions to improve hygiene.
  • pro They urge thorough sanitizing after each child and for services to be declined for those who come in sick.

Review

Arc House in Madison is best suited for families seeking an integrated model: senior living with on-site therapy services and a child-care option anchored on the same campus. It serves working parents who want a practical, all-in-one setting where elder care and child care can overlap without constant coordination with separate providers. The community earns solid marks from residents and families, underscored by a generally favorable rating and multiple high-star experiences that speak to reliable care and attentive staff. For those juggling two generations, Arc House promises convenient access to restorative services and support that recognizes both senior well-being and parental needs. The combination of therapy availability and on-site child care is not common in the Madison area, making Arc House a distinctive choice for multi-generational households.

Nonetheless, potential residents should be clear-eyed about who may want to look elsewhere. The single largest caveat is the pediatric component shared on site; while the child-care service is a meaningful benefit, it introduces additional infection-control considerations and logistical complexity. Families that require an elder-focused environment with minimal cross-generation exposure or that prioritize a strictly sanitized, no-child-care context may prefer a more traditional assisted living setting. Likewise, those who place the strongest emphasis on formal memory-care amenities or specialized elder-care niches may find Arc House does not align with a dedicated elder-care emphasis. In short, Arc House works best when the family values cross-generational convenience and is comfortable monitoring how the pediatric and geriatric functions are managed.

The core positives are real and tangible: a capable therapy team on site and a built-in structure that supports ongoing wellness for seniors, with the flexibility to coordinate visits or sessions without leaving the campus. The therapy staff is repeatedly described as outstanding, delivering meaningful interventions that can sustain independence and improve quality of life for residents. The on-site child care adds a practical layer of flexibility for caregivers, enabling parents to pursue work or personal commitments with a better sense of daily now-what. When operations run smoothly, those strengths create a rhythm of care that makes Arc House feel like a true multi-generational community rather than a series of disconnected services. The synergy between senior therapy services and convenient child care is the kind of distinct value that can tip a decision in favor of Arc House for families who welcome it.

Yet, the most material concern rests with the safety dynamics created by the pediatric component. A parent story highlights a troubling outcome: an 18-month-old contracted RSV after exposure within the ARC clinic’s child-care center, leading to hospitalization, a prolonged fever, and significant disruption for the family. The account emphasizes insufficient sanitation in the aftermath of visits and a call for stricter policies to protect children and elders alike. While an apology was offered, the narrative stops short of showing concrete, durable changes, raising legitimate questions about how thoroughly spaces are cleansed, how sick children are screened, and how quickly service access is denied when health risks arise. This is not a hypothetical risk, it's a tangible failure point that directly affects trust in the model. For families with extremely young children, immunocompromised relatives, or heightened sensitivity to infection, this concern dominates the risk calculus.

To move forward with Arc House in a principled way, prospective families should demand crystal-clear, documented policies and verifiable practices. The assessment should start with infection-control protocols: exact cleaning routines, frequency, and products; how spaces are physically separated or shared between pediatric and geriatric functions; and procedures for identifying and turning away sick children. Request concrete sick-child policies, including who makes the call to defer services and how long that deferral lasts. Inquire about staff training, vaccination and health-screening practices, incident reporting, and the timeline for implementing corrective actions after a safety lapse. A guided tour focused on pediatric and elder-care zones is essential, as is a plan for ongoing transparency, monthly updates, if possible, about any safety issues and improvements. Consider a trial period or respite stay to observe daily operations, staff responsiveness, and whether the atmosphere feels calm and well- supervised.

Bottom line: Arc House offers a practical, multi-generational care model with genuine strengths in on-site therapy and a parent-friendly setup, making it a compelling fit for families who value flexibility and integrated services. The infection-control episode linked to the pediatric component, however, is a real constraint that cannot be dismissed. If the facility can demonstrate rigorous, enforceable hygiene standards and transparent, actionable steps to keep pediatric and geriatric spaces appropriately separated, Arc House is a strong recommendation for the right family. If those assurances cannot be documented and lived up to, or if cross-generation exposure remains a non-starter, exploring alternatives with stricter elder-only environments will be the prudent path. The decision hinges on whether the perceived benefits for the child-care-enabled family outweigh the demonstrated risk, and on whether the administration can prove that safety is the non-negotiable priority it must be.

Features

Housing

  • 15 resident community capacity 15 resident community capacity

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.

Amenities

  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Dining room Dining roomDining rooms are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, connection, and nutritious meals. They offer opportunities for residents to bond over shared meals, foster a sense of community, and promote healthy eating habits. Dining rooms also ensure that seniors have access to well-balanced meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
  • Fully furnished Fully furnishedFully furnished senior living communities are important for seniors because they provide convenience, comfort, and a hassle-free moving experience. Seniors can easily settle into their new living space without the stress of having to buy and move furniture. This allows them to focus on enjoying their new home and community.
  • Garden GardenGardens are important for seniors as they provide a peaceful and therapeutic environment for relaxation, physical activity, and socialization. Being in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being. Gardens also offer opportunities for seniors to engage in gardening activities, which can improve mobility, flexibility, and cognitive function. Additionally, gardens create a sense of community and connection with others who share a passion for plants and outdoor spaces.
  • Housekeeping services Housekeeping servicesHousekeeping services are important for seniors because they help maintain a clean and safe living environment, promote independence, and reduce the risk of accidents or illnesses. Additionally, having assistance with household chores can alleviate physical strain and allow seniors to focus on other aspects of their well-being.
  • Move-in coordination Move-in coordinationMove-in coordination is important for seniors because it helps ease the transition into their new living environment. It ensures that all logistics, such as packing, organizing movers, and setting up utilities are taken care of, allowing seniors to focus on settling in and adjusting to their new home. Having a smooth move-in process can alleviate stress and anxiety, making the transition smoother and more enjoyable for seniors.
  • Outdoor space Outdoor spaceOutdoor spaces are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, exposure to natural light and fresh air, and a sense of connection to nature. Having access to outdoor spaces can improve overall well-being and quality of life for older adults living in senior communities.
  • Telephone TelephoneTelephones are important for seniors as they provide a lifeline for communication with loved ones, emergency services, and healthcare providers. They offer a sense of security and independence, enabling seniors to stay connected and access assistance when needed.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Dane County Regional (4 miles away) Dane County Regional (4 miles away)

Care Services

  • 24-hour supervision 24-hour supervision24-hour supervision is important for seniors to ensure their safety, well-being, and access to immediate assistance in case of emergencies or health issues. This constant support provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones, allowing them to age in place with dignity and security.
  • Activities of daily living assistance Activities of daily living assistanceActivities of daily living assistance are important for seniors because they provide essential support with tasks such as eating, bathing, dressing, and mobility. This assistance helps seniors maintain their independence, dignity, and overall quality of life as they age.
  • Assistance with bathing Assistance with bathingAssistance with bathing is crucial for seniors as it helps maintain personal hygiene, prevents infections, and ensures their overall well-being and comfort. It also provides a sense of dignity and independence for seniors who may struggle with this task on their own.
  • Assistance with dressing Assistance with dressingAssistance with dressing is important for seniors because it helps maintain their independence, promotes personal hygiene, prevents accidents and injuries, and improves overall quality of life. This service ensures that seniors can continue to dress comfortably and confidently, despite any physical limitations they may have.
  • Assistance with transfers Assistance with transfersAssistance with transfers is crucial for seniors as it helps prevent falls and injuries, maintains their independence, and ensures they can safely navigate their living environment. It also provides peace of mind for both seniors and their loved ones.
  • Coordination with health care providers Coordination with health care providersCoordination with health care providers is crucial for seniors to ensure proper medical care, medication management, and overall well-being. This collaboration helps prevent overlapping treatments, track progress more effectively, and provide comprehensive support tailored to individual needs.
  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Meal preparation and service Meal preparation and serviceMeal preparation and service are crucial for seniors as they may have limited mobility or energy to cook nutritious meals. Having access to healthy and convenient food options can ensure they are getting the proper nutrition needed to maintain their overall health and well-being.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.
  • Transportation arrangement (medical) Transportation arrangement (medical)Transportation arrangements for medical purposes are essential for seniors as they may have difficulty driving themselves to appointments or accessing public transportation. Having reliable and safe transportation options ensures that seniors can receive timely medical care and maintain their health and well-being.
  • Transportation to doctors appointments Transportation to doctors appointmentsTransportation to doctors' appointments is crucial for seniors as it ensures they have access to necessary medical care and support for their health needs. Without reliable transportation, seniors may struggle to attend important appointments, leading to potential delays in treatment and health complications. Providing transportation services helps seniors maintain their overall well-being and quality of life.

Dining

  • Diabetes diet Diabetes dietA diabetes diet is crucial for seniors as it helps manage blood sugar levels, reduce risks of complications, and improve overall health and well-being. By following a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can better control their diabetes and enhance their quality of life.
  • Special dietary restrictions Special dietary restrictionsSpecial dietary restrictions are important for seniors because age-related changes in metabolism and health conditions can make it difficult for their bodies to process certain foods. By following a diet tailored to their specific needs, seniors can maintain their overall health and well-being, manage chronic conditions, and reduce the risk of complications such as malnutrition or food interactions with medications.

Activities

  • Community-sponsored activities Community-sponsored activitiesCommunity-sponsored activities are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, mental stimulation, and physical activity. These activities can help improve overall well-being, combat loneliness and isolation, and promote a sense of belonging and purpose among older adults.
  • Scheduled daily activities Scheduled daily activitiesScheduled daily activities are important for seniors because they provide structure, socialization, mental stimulation, and physical activity. Engaging in regular activities can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors living in a community setting.

Description

Arc House in Madison, WI is an assisted living community that offers a wide range of amenities and care services to ensure the comfort and well-being of its residents. The community features a spacious dining room where residents can enjoy delicious meals prepared by professional chefs. Each apartment is fully furnished and there is also a beautiful garden where residents can relax and take in the natural surroundings.

Housekeeping services are provided to ensure that the community remains clean and tidy at all times. Additionally, move-in coordination is available to assist new residents with the transition into their new home. Outdoor space is also provided for those who enjoy spending time outside.

For communication needs, telephone service and Wi-Fi/high-speed internet access are available throughout the community. This ensures that residents can stay connected with their loved ones or engage in online activities.

The care services offered at Arc House include assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers. The staff also coordinates with health care providers to ensure that each resident's medical needs are met. Specialized care for individuals with diabetes, including dietary plans, is provided. Medication management is available to ensure that residents receive their medications on time.

The dining experience at Arc House takes into account any special dietary restrictions that residents may have, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their meals comfortably.

To keep residents engaged and entertained, scheduled daily activities are organized within the community. These activities cater to different interests and provide opportunities for socializing, learning, and enjoyment.

Location-wise, Arc House boasts convenient proximity to various facilities such as cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options (including medical transportation), and hospitals. This accessibility allows residents to easily access necessary services or engage in recreational activities outside of the community.

Arc House strives to create a comfortable and caring environment for its residents by offering a range of amenities and care services designed to meet their individual needs while providing easy access to essential facilities in the surrounding area.

Nearby Places of Interest

Parks

  • Breese Stevens Field (0.1 miles)
  • James Madison Park (0.4 miles)
  • Olin-Turville Park (2 miles)
  • Olbrich Park (2.3 miles)
  • Warner Park (3.3 miles)
  • Kingston Onyx Park (3.6 miles)

Restaurants

  • The Brass Ring (0.3 miles)
  • Up North Bar (0.5 miles)
  • Working Draft Beer Company (0.5 miles)
  • Sardine (0.5 miles)
  • Garibaldi Mexican (0.6 miles)
  • Weary Traveler (0.6 miles)
  • The Old Fashioned (0.7 miles)

Physicians

  • Pact Program (0.5 miles)
  • Tellurian (0.5 miles)
  • Barbara C White, LCSW (0.5 miles)
  • See (1.1 miles)
  • Group Health Cooperative (1.5 miles)
  • Barry Fox (1.5 miles)
  • Luis Fernandez MD (1.5 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.7 miles)
  • UW Health 1 S. Park Clinic Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
  • Walgreens (1.9 miles)
  • Walgreens (2 miles)
  • Pick 'n Save Pharmacy (2.4 miles)
  • Medicine Shoppe 0605 (2.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.6 miles)

Cafes

  • Starbucks (0.8 miles)
  • Wonderstate Coffee (0.9 miles)
  • Gordon Dining and Event Center (1.4 miles)
  • The Heights (2.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.9 miles)
  • Panera Bread (3.6 miles)

Transportation

  • U-Haul Moving & Storage (1.4 miles)

Hospitals

  • University of Wisconsin Hospital and Clinics Authority (2 miles)
  • Dean & St Mary's Outpatient Surgery Centers (2.1 miles)
  • St Marys Hybrid OR (2.2 miles)
  • St Mary's Hospital (2.2 miles)
  • William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital (2.9 miles)
  • UWHC Outpatient Radiology (3.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Arc House?

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