Shepherd Premier Senior Living of Sterling is an assisted living community in Sterling, Illinois, dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care in a warm, home-like environment. Serving seniors who need assistance with daily activities, the facility offers both assisted living and memory care services, emphasizing dignity, safety, and individual attention. The community is designed to feel like a residential home, with 24/7 video surveillance, wheelchair accessibility, housekeeping, laundry services, and three home-cooked meals daily. Residents enjoy activities, outings, and access to cable TV and WiFi, all within quiet neighborhoods featuring beautiful landscapes and gardens. With a perfect 5.00 rating and a strong reputation for excellence, the community is recognized as a top choice in Illinois, having been voted Best Illinois Senior Assisted Living & Memory Care for eight consecutive years.
Founded in 2014 by the Schwab family, Shepherd Premier was born from a personal experience in 2008 when Robert “Bud” Schwab required care in a large, impersonal facility with a 1-to-20 caregiver ratio. The family’s distress over delayed responses and the sterile, hospital-like atmosphere inspired Brandon Schwab to create a more intimate, high-touch model of care. Drawing from a successful residential care model observed in Florida, the company was established to bring compassionate, family-style living to seniors across Northern Illinois. Today, Shepherd Premier operates five homes in the region, each offering premium amenities and a focus on emotional and cognitive well-being, including music therapy for individuals with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
Located on E Le Fevre Road, the community sits about a half-mile from Lincoln Park and a short distance from East 4th Street and East 3rd Street, with nearby landmarks including Platt Park, Faith Baptist Christian School, and Christ Lutheran School. The setting offers peaceful access to green space and local institutions, supporting a balanced, community-centered lifestyle.
The facility’s consistent 5.00 rating reflects its strong reputation for personalized, respectful care and a commitment to making each resident feel at home. With a focus on dignity, connection, and quality of life, Shepherd Premier stands out as a trusted choice for senior living in Sterling.