Inside the Heart of The Regency at Glen Cove Senior Living:
A Conversation with Stella Shank, Executive Director
Nestled in Glen Cove, New York, The Regency has been a pillar of community care since 1993. At the heart of its success is Stella Shank, the executive director with 31 years of dedication to the same community she began serving just months before graduating college. For the past four years as executive director, Stella has embodied the hands-on, family-driven approach that makes The Regency truly unique.
A Journey of Growth
Stella’s career began as a certified recreational therapy specialist after shifting away from a CPA track in college. Her first role was as the recreation director, and over three decades, she has held six different positions including HR, marketing, case management, and director of special projects. This wide-ranging experience allows her to connect with both staff and residents on a deeply personal level.
What Makes The Regency Stand Out
The Regency at Glen Cove embraces its identity as a “mom and pop” assisted living community. In a neighborhood filled with senior care options—including three subacute rehabs, two other assisted livings, and a hospital—all within an eighth of a mile, The Regency thrives on its reputation and family referrals.
The community offers:
- Assisted living and special needs (memory care) licensing
- Enhanced license for residents needing two-person assistance, enabling true aging-in-place
- Safe Harbor Memory Care, a 35-bed all-inclusive community with a waiting list
- Competitive, predictable pricing, particularly valued for all-inclusive memory care services
Residents can begin their journey here fully independent and remain in the same apartment as their care needs evolve, including hospice services once admitted.
Programs and Community Engagement
The Regency at Glen Cove is one of the few New York State communities participating in the SNALR Voucher Program, allowing qualifying residents to receive up to 75% of their monthly fees subsidized by the state. This initiative helps seniors remain in assisted living rather than transition into nursing facilities.
Life at The Regency is vibrant and community-focused:
- Daily activities ranging from Italian parties with live music to trips to Montauk and casino outings
- Personalized medical care with 14 house doctors and complimentary transportation within a 7-mile radius
- Strong staff commitment, with 65% of employees serving more than five years and many family pairs working together
A Culture of Family
Stella’s philosophy is simple: Happy staff, happy residents. From throwing baby showers for team members to helping staff navigate personal challenges like booking vacations or applying for Medicare, she ensures her team feels supported. That familial environment extends to the residents, with stories of housewarming parties, milestone celebrations, and even wedding invitations.
Advice for Seniors and Families
Stella encourages seniors to explore assisted living proactively, rather than waiting for an emergency. Touring communities, joining waiting lists, and taking advantage of 30-day trial stays can make the transition smoother for everyone. She also advises families to consider facilities with enhanced licenses, as moving again in one’s 90s is emotionally taxing.
Learn More
To see the Regency’s approach in action:
- Website: regencyatglencove.com
- Email: stella@theregencyglencove.com
- Facebook: The Regency Assisted Living (updated three times weekly)
- Phone: 516-674-3007
With its long-standing staff, history of compassionate care, and vibrant community life, The Regency at Glen Cove Senior Living continues to be a true home for seniors and their families.