Discover a Smarter Alternative to Assisted Living: ADUs Keep Your Loved Ones Close and Costs Low

When faced with the decision of moving a loved one into an assisted living facility, many families assume it’s the only option. But what if there was a way to provide safe, comfortable, and private living arrangements—without the high costs or the emotional strain of moving away from family?

Enter the Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU), also known as a backyard cottage or in-law suite. These small, fully equipped homes provide an ideal solution for aging parents who need some assistance but want to maintain independence.

The Cost Comparison: ADUs vs. Assisted Living Facilities

Assisted living facilities are notoriously expensive. The average cost of assisted living in Wisconsin is around $4,600 per month, with memory care options reaching $6,000 or more. That’s upwards of $55,000–$72,000 per year—and costs are only rising.

For families seeking long-term solutions, these expenses can quickly deplete savings, especially if care is needed for several years. In contrast, building an ADU is a one-time investment that provides lasting value. The cost to build an ADU typically ranges from $125,000 to $250,000, but when you compare this to the annual expenses of an assisted living facility, an ADU pays for itself in just a few years. And once it’s paid off, there are no recurring facility fees, making it a far more sustainable financial option.

Benefits of an ADU for Aging Loved Ones

1. Keeps Family Close

Isolation is one of the biggest challenges seniors face in assisted living facilities. With an ADU, your loved one remains near family, staying connected to daily life, celebrations, and support. They have their own private space while still being just steps away if help is needed.

2. Promotes Independence with Support

Many seniors don’t need 24/7 care but require occasional assistance with daily tasks. An ADU allows them to maintain autonomy while having family nearby to check in, offer meals, or help with medical needs as they arise.

3. Customizable for Aging in Place

ADUs can be designed with age-friendly features like step-free entryways, wide doorways for walkers or wheelchairs, accessible bathrooms, and smart home technology for safety. These features make it easier for seniors to live independently longer—without the restrictions or rules of a care facility.

4. A Financially Smart, Long-Term Investment

Unlike rent at an assisted living facility, an ADU is a lasting asset. After serving its purpose for an aging parent, the unit can be repurposed as a guest house, rental property, or space for a future caregiver. It adds value to your property and provides flexibility for changing family needs.

5. More Comfortable, Less Stressful Transition

Moving into a care facility can be emotionally overwhelming for seniors. They often feel a loss of independence, a disconnect from family, and anxiety about unfamiliar surroundings. An ADU eliminates this stressful transition by allowing them to remain in a familiar environment, with the added comfort of knowing their family is just a short walk away.

Is an ADU Right for Your Family?

If you're exploring assisted living options, it’s worth considering whether an ADU is a better fit for your loved one. Not only does it provide a more affordable and emotionally supportive alternative, but it also fosters stronger family connections while preserving independence.

At Boundless Tiny Homes, we specialize in designing and building high-quality ADUs in Madison, WI. We understand the challenges families face when caring for aging loved ones, and we’re here to help you create a solution that works for your family.

Want to learn more? Contact us today to explore how an ADU could be the perfect alternative to assisted living for your family.