When researching care options for a loved one, two terms often surface: nursing home and assisted living. While they’re sometimes used interchangeably, these care models serve distinct purposes and offer different levels of support. At Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, we provide both, allowing families to choose the best fit as needs change—without leaving the comfort of a trusted care community.

Assisted living is designed for older adults who need some help with daily activities, but do not require intensive medical care. Residents in assisted living typically live in private or semi-private apartments and receive support with:
Medication management

• Bathing and grooming

• Meal preparation

• Housekeeping and laundry

• Transportation and activities

The lifestyle is more independent and socially oriented. At Shirkey, we foster an active, engaging environment in our assisted living community, where residents enjoy shared dining spaces, recreational programming, and access to 24/7 support staff—while maintaining their personal freedom and privacy.

A nursing home (also known as skilled nursing or long-term care) is ideal for individuals who need a higher level of medical supervision and daily care. This includes:
• Ongoing nursing support

• Assistance with complex medical conditions

• Recovery after surgery, stroke, or illness

• Physical, occupational, or speech therapy

• Memory care for dementia or Alzheimer’s

Nursing home residents at Shirkey benefit from a team of licensed nurses, certified aides, and therapy professionals. The focus is on maintaining dignity, safety, and the highest possible quality of life through expert care.

Nursing Home

24/7 medical care and supervision

Shared or private rooms

Skilled nursing, therapy, rehab

Limited due to health needs

Seniors with complex conditions

One important distinction lies in how these services are paid for:
• Assisted living is usually paid for out-of-pocket, long-term care insurance, or veteran benefits.

• Nursing home care may be covered by Medicare (short-term rehab), Medicaid, or long-term care insurance, depending on eligibility and length of stay.

Our team at Shirkey is happy to walk families through the financial aspects and help determine the best route for coverage and planning.

What sets Shirkey Nursing and Rehabilitation Center apart is our ability to provide both assisted living and nursing home care on one campus. As needs evolve, residents can seamlessly transition from one level of care to another—without uprooting their routine or community.

We take pride in delivering personalized care with compassion, ensuring every resident feels at home and supported, no matter their care level.

If you’re exploring care options for yourself or a loved one, we invite you to visit Shirkey. Our caring team is ready to answer your questions, walk you through our beautiful campus, and help you make an informed decision.