Personal Care vs Nursing Home in Kentucky: What Families Need to Know
Understanding the difference can help you choose the right level of care — and find peace of mind.
Personal Care at Ivy Knoll
More Support Than Assisted Living. More Independence Than a Nursing Home.
At Ivy Knoll Senior Living, we specialize in Personal Care — a unique level of service recognized by the state of Kentucky. It’s designed for seniors who need daily assistance and medication management, but not full-time medical treatment.
Our Personal Care program combines 24-hour support, comfort, and community — helping residents maintain independence while getting the help they need.
What Personal Care Includes:
24/7 staffing with overnight nursing oversight
Assistance with bathing, dressing, and mobility
Medication administration by trained caregivers (not just reminders)
Three nutritious, home-style meals served daily
Housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance
Engaging activities, creative programs, and fitness classes
Transportation and coordination with medical providers
💡 Personal Care in Kentucky bridges the gap between Independent Living and Skilled Nursing. It’s the right choice for most seniors who need daily help — but not hospital-level care.
What Kentucky Law Says About Personal Care
Licensed for Safety and Dignity
Kentucky is one of the few states that separates Assisted Living Communities (ALCs) from Personal Care Homes. Under Kentucky Administrative Regulation 902 KAR 20:036, a Personal Care Home is authorized to:
“Provide supervision, assistance in daily living activities, and administration of medications as ordered by a physician.”
That means Ivy Knoll can safely administer medications, unlike many assisted living communities that can only remind residents.
At Ivy Knoll, this translates to:
Staff trained in medication management
On-site nursing available overnight
Regular wellness checks and physician coordination
“Families often come to us after realizing Mom or Dad doesn’t need a nursing home — they just need help with daily routines and a community that cares.”
Flexible Stays — Respite & Short-Term Care
Care When You Need It, for as Long as You Need It
Ivy Knoll also offers respite care, ideal for:
Short-term recovery after illness or surgery
Giving family caregivers a break
Trying out community life before moving in full-time
Respite guests enjoy:
Furnished private rooms
24/7 staff and medication support
Chef-prepared meals and housekeeping
Access to all community amenities and activities
📅 Respite stays can last a few days or a few weeks — whatever your family needs.
Nursing Homes in Kentucky — How They Differ
When Skilled Nursing Is the Right Choice
A nursing home, or Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF), provides 24-hour medical and rehabilitative care for people with complex medical conditions.
Nursing Homes Provide:
24/7 care from RNs and LPNs
Medical treatments, IV therapy, wound care, and rehab
Post-hospital recovery and long-term medical support
Physician oversight and therapy programs
Who Typically Needs a Nursing Home:
A senior recovering from surgery, stroke, or illness
Someone requiring constant medical monitoring
A person who needs daily treatments like oxygen, injections, or therapy
💡 If medical treatment is the priority, a nursing home may be the right fit. If quality of life and daily living support are the goals — Personal Care may be the better choice.
Take the Next Step
We’ll Help You Choose With Confidence
Choosing the right level of care doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Our team will listen, guide you through options, and help your loved one find the right balance of safety, independence, and joy.