Franciscan Villa in South Milwaukee, WI

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Franciscan Villa Franciscan Villa

Franciscan Villa in South Milwaukee, WI

3601 S Chicago Ave, South Milwaukee, WI 53172

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

3.8 from 100 reviews
5 stars
60
4 stars
11
3 stars
2
2 stars
5
1 stars
22

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Franciscan Villa Costs & Pricing

Franciscan Villa offers a range of living options that come with varying costs, reflecting both the premium services provided and the competitive landscape of Milwaukee County and the broader state of Wisconsin. For instance, the monthly rate for a one-bedroom unit at Franciscan Villa is $4,275, significantly higher than the county average of $3,057 and even beyond the state average of $3,412. Similarly, two-bedroom accommodations are priced at $4,575, which surpasses Milwaukee County's average cost of $2,654 as well as Wisconsin's average of $3,111. The villa's semi-private rooms and studio apartments exhibit similar trends; they are more costly than their county and state counterparts - $6,125 versus county's $4,341 and state's $3,977 for semi-private rooms and $6,154 compared to local and state averages for studios. These figures suggest that Franciscan Villa positions itself as a premium option in terms of pricing while likely offering enhanced amenities or care services that cater to residents seeking a superior quality of life.

Floor plansFranciscan VillaMilwaukee CountyWisconsin
1 Bedroom$4,275$3,057$3,412
2 Bedrooms$4,575$2,654$3,111
Semi-Private$6,125$4,341$3,977
Studio$6,154$3,841$3,999

Overall Review of Franciscan Villa

Pros

  • pro The Franciscan Villa staff are compassionate, professional, and supportive throughout residents’ transitions.
  • pro The facility is very clean, well maintained, and comfortable for residents and visitors.
  • pro The physical and speech therapists are knowledgeable and caring, providing excellent rehabilitation support.
  • pro The on-site chapel and regular Mass meet residents’ spiritual needs.
  • pro The Gardens offer natural beauty visible from every window, creating a welcoming environment.
  • pro The team works well together and treats residents like family.
  • pro The leadership and staff are dedicated and consistently go above and beyond to provide excellent care.
  • pro The dining area is pleasant and the food is delicious, with attentive kitchen and dining staff.
  • pro The staff are friendly, helpful, and attentive to residents and families.
  • pro The facility provides a safe, caring space where loved ones feel well cared for.

Cons

  • pro The facility does not communicate anything to families.
  • pro There are no nurses on site, leaving residents without care.
  • pro This facility should be absolutely ashamed of the service it provides.
  • pro Patients are not being changed after 11am, and cleanliness is poor.
  • pro The food quality is terrible and not fit for consumption.
  • pro The facility is understaffed and cannot meet residents’ needs.
  • pro The building is worn and shabby, with scraped walls and duct-taped fixes.
  • pro Dirty laundry is often left on the floor.

Review

Franciscan Villa is best suited for families seeking solid rehabilitation and skilled-nursing support in a faith-centered environment, where the care team is often described as compassionate and engaged. The campus supports a continuum of care, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care, so transitions can be smoother for residents who start in one setting and later require more intensive services. The standout strength is the therapy program: physical and occupational therapists are frequently praised for knowledge, attentiveness, and practical progress, which makes this community a reasonable choice for short- to medium-term rehab with the aim of returning home. Residents also benefit from in-house services that accompany a comprehensive care model, including access to a chapel, social workers, and varied activities, which helps sustain routines and a sense of purpose.

Those who may want to consider alternatives are the families prioritizing flawless daily operations and rigorously consistent communication. A recurring theme in the reviews is inconsistent or delayed family updates, missed medications, and struggles with call-bell responsiveness, elements that weigh heavily for anyone coordinating ongoing at-home care or managing anxiety about a loved one’s wellbeing. Another red flag for some families is the building’s age and wear, coupled with reports of occasional maintenance issues and crowded spaces that undermine a sense of home. For memory-care needs, a few accounts highlight safety gaps and exits that warrant closer scrutiny, making it prudent to compare other options with dedicated dementia-security protocols and more transparent incident reporting. Finally, when cost is a decisive factor, several reviewers flag higher fees relative to the perceived value, suggesting a careful cost-benefit check before committing.

The principal pros, the cleanliness, room quality, and a staff culture described as genuinely caring, do substantial work to offset several of the facility’s shortcomings. Private rooms with bathrooms, active therapy teams, and accessible in-house specialists (dietetics, podiatry, dental care) provide tangible value for families seeking convenient, coordinated care. The dining experience is a mixed bag but leans positive in many testimonials, and when food meets resident preferences the warmth from dining staff reinforces the sense that residents are treated as individuals. The presence of a chapel and routine spiritual offerings adds a dimension of holistic care that matters to families for whom faith and community support are important. In short, the care ecosystem at Franciscan Villa often delivers reliable day-to-day compassion, strong rehab momentum, and meaningful social engagement that supports recovery and quality of life.

Yet the main drawbacks cannot be dismissed. The most consequential concerns center on communication gaps and staffing pressures. Families report times when messages or updates were not returned, calls were not answered promptly, and schedule changes or care adjustments were not clearly conveyed. On the clinical side, there are consistent threads about missed or delayed medications, inconsistent nightly routines, and periods when residents were not turned or cleaned as often as recommended. Memory-care reviews include alarming anecdotes about wandering, safety risks, and insufficient preventive measures, underscoring that safety cannot be assumed without present, proactive monitoring. The physical environment also shows signs of age, walls, fixtures, and general décor that feel worn rather than refreshed, potentially impacting resident mood and perception of home.

Despite these concerns, the balance between pros and cons often tilts toward choosing Franciscan Villa for rehabilitation and steady daily care when certain conditions align. If a loved one prioritizes skilled therapy and a compassionate, teamwork-driven staff, the positives are meaningful and frequently reinforced by families who witness real progress and friendly, capable aides and nurses. The strong, integrative care model, where nursing, therapy, housekeeping, dietary, and social services coordinate, can help residents regain function and maintain engagement, which in many cases offsets the irritants of an aging facility and occasional communication slips. For families who value a faith-based community and regular access to spiritual support, the facility’s chapel and pastoral involvement offer an additional layer of comfort that can be transformative during recovery or transitions.

The practical path forward for families considering Franciscan Villa is twofold. First, schedule a thorough, observation-focused tour that prioritizes the areas that matter most: medication management routines, call-light response times, and how staff communicate with families about changes in care plans. Second, prepare a targeted set of questions for the leadership team about staffing levels across shifts, turnover, and the processes in place to prevent waking concerns from falling through the cracks. Prospective residents should also verify the specific module of care, Gardens for assisted-living needs, Villa for skilled nursing, and Francis House for memory care, and clarify what each tier provides in terms staffing ratios, daily schedules, and safety measures. If these elements align with expectations and budget, Franciscan Villa can be a practical, compassionate home with strong rehab outcomes; if not, alternatives with tighter governance, fresher interiors, and more immediate family communication may be worth pursuing for long-term peace of mind.

Features

Housing

  • 1-bedroom apartments 1-bedroom apartments1-bedroom apartments are important for seniors because they provide a sense of independence, privacy, and autonomy while still offering the necessary space for comfortable living. These apartments allow seniors to maintain their own personal space and lifestyle preferences in a supportive community setting.
  • 2-bedroom apartments 2-bedroom apartments2-bedroom apartments are important for seniors because they provide extra space for guests, hobbies, and caregivers, as well as potential for additional income through roommates or rental.
  • Studio apartments Studio apartmentsStudio apartments are important for seniors because they offer a smaller, more manageable living space that is easier to navigate and maintain as physical abilities decline. Additionally, studio apartments provide seniors with independence and privacy while still being part of a community that offers support and social opportunities.

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.
  • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.

Amenities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
  • Devotional services off-site Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
  • Devotional services on-site Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
  • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Outdoor common areas Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.

Transportation

  • General Mitchell International (4 miles away) General Mitchell International (4 miles away)

Care Services

  • Ambulatory care Ambulatory care"Ambulatory care services provide essential medical support and treatment to seniors without requiring hospitalization, allowing them to maintain their independence and quality of life while managing chronic conditions or receiving routine medical care."
  • Diabetic care Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.

Dining

  • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.

Activities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Devotional activities offsite Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
  • Devotional activities on-site Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.

Description

Franciscan Villa is an assisted living community located in South Milwaukee, WI. They offer spacious 2-bedroom apartments as well as comfortable studio apartments for seniors looking for a new home. The community specializes in providing specialized care for individuals with memory impairments.

Residents at Franciscan Villa can enjoy a variety of amenities and activities. On-site, there are numerous activities to participate in, ensuring residents always have something fun and engaging to do. Additionally, there is a beautician on-site to provide convenient salon services. Devotional services are available both on-site and off-site for spiritual support.

The community features indoor and outdoor common areas where residents can socialize, relax, or take part in group activities. These spaces provide opportunities for residents to connect with each other and enjoy the beautiful surrounding scenery.

Franciscan Villa also offers diabetic care services for those who require assistance managing their diabetes. Trained staff members are available to provide personalized care and support to ensure residents' health needs are met.

Conveniently located nearby are various parks, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, theaters, and hospitals. This allows residents easy access to essential services and opportunities for entertainment or outings.

Overall, Franciscan Villa provides a welcoming and supportive environment for seniors seeking memory care assistance while offering a range of amenities and convenient access to nearby attractions and services.

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Nearby Places of Interest

This part of South Milwaukee, Wisconsin offers convenient access to a variety of amenities and services that may be appealing to seniors. There are several pharmacies within a short distance, making it easy to access medications and healthcare supplies. Additionally, there are a range of dining options nearby, including fast food chains and sit-down restaurants. For recreation, there are parks within driving distance for outdoor activities and relaxation. Medical care is easily accessible with a selection of physicians' offices and hospitals in the vicinity. The area also offers transportation options with close proximity to the airport. Overall, this part of South Milwaukee provides a mix of necessities and conveniences that could make it a suitable choice for senior living.

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (0.3 miles)
  • Pick 'n Save Pharmacy (2.4 miles)
  • Meijer Pharmacy (2.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (3 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (3 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.3 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.7 miles)

Restaurants

  • Subway (2.2 miles)
  • Culver's (2.5 miles)
  • McDonald's (2.5 miles)
  • Chick-Fil-A (2.5 miles)
  • McDonald's (3.8 miles)
  • Papa Luigi's (4.3 miles)
  • The Landing (4.4 miles)

Parks

  • Runway Dog Exercise Area (2.5 miles)
  • South Shore Park (6.8 miles)
  • Humboldt Park (6.8 miles)
  • Paliafito Park (9 miles)
  • Henry Maier Festival Park (9.2 miles)
  • West Allis West Milwaukee Recr (9.8 miles)

Physicians

  • Aurora Health Care (2.9 miles)
  • Innovative Pain Care (4.8 miles)
  • Rheumatology & Immunotherapy (5.7 miles)
  • Layton Avenue Dermatolgy Clinic (6.2 miles)
  • Sports Medicine & Orthopedic Center (6.2 miles)
  • Greendale Health Center (7 miles)
  • Aurora Health Care (7.8 miles)

Hospitals

  • Froedert Drexel Square Clinic (2.9 miles)
  • Aurora St Luke's South Shore (2.9 miles)
  • Aurora St Luke's Medical Center (7.8 miles)

Theaters

  • South Shore Cinema Oak Creek, Wi (3.7 miles)

Transportation

  • MKE Runway (3.8 miles)
  • Concourse D (4 miles)
  • Delta Ticket Counter (4 miles)
  • Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) (4.1 miles)
  • Security Checkpoint (4.1 miles)
  • Concourse C (4.2 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Stephen's Catholic Church (4.5 miles)

Cafes

  • Hawthorne Coffee Roasters (5.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (7 miles)
  • Colectivo Coffee (7.6 miles)
  • Starbucks (8.5 miles)
  • Starbucks (9.7 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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