Louisville-based Kindred Healthcare this week urged stockholders to back a $4.1 billion sale to Humana and two private equity firms, both in a U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission proxy statement and an investor presentation.

But the one-time, long-term care giant noted it expects pressures around labor and shifting payment strategies to remain, even after if it completes its exit from the skilled nursing arena.

The SEC filings include shareholder notification of an upcoming — but so far undated — special meeting during which they will be asked to vote on the proposal.

In December, Kindred announced its board had agreed to an acquisition by Humana; Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe; and TPG in a $4.1 billion cash deal. Kindred confirmed that it would divide its product line into two new entities, one devoted to home care and the other for speciality hospitals.

At least one major stakeholder, Brigade Capital Management, has said it opposes the takeover and would vote against the transaction as originally proposed.

In the SEC filing, Kindred said it has until August 17 to seal the deal.

Its investor presentation described the transaction as protecting investors, removing “risk and volatility” related to reimbursement uncertainty and a challenging operating environment, while monetizing home health and hospice assets.