While both assisted living and skilled nursing exist to help individuals pursue exceptional lives, one clear differentiator is the type and level of care needed. Assisted living communities provide a home-like environment and encourage residents to live as independently as possible, while having staff available to aid with activities of daily living. You are also able to opt for varying levels of care depending on individual needs. In a skilled nursing facility, medically intensive care and rehabilitation is provided for those with complex or chronic medical needs or recovering from injury, illness, or surgery. Skilled nursing is considered a medical setting, while assisted living is considered a residential setting. Once the level of care is established, the goal becomes finding the right place you or the person you love will be comfortable, happy and fully supported.