It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Kent Furnace gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Kent, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work”
“We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company,”
“My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office”
“Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of”
“I have a very good providers from this Company”
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work and truly cares about the people she is in contact with. She is dedicated, diligent, and is devoted to her job assignment. She not only takes care of my Mom, but she goes above and beyond her call of duty. Bessie has a unique ability to connect with every person she meets. No day goes by that my Mom is not pampered. Bessie make sure she's always comfortable. She makes exceptional meals for her 3 times a day, cleans her clothes, gives her showers, washes her hair and makes her look amazing every single day. Bessie is so beneficial to our family we can't imagine our family without her. I myself and my family members could never do what she does for our Mom. She has been with my mom and our family for almost 1 year and we don't know what we would do without her, she truly is a gift from God. She not only takes care of my Mom daily, nightly and weekly, she also takes care of her personal life and whatever life throws at her. She is a devoted caretaker and should be recognized with the utmost respect. Her dedication to improving the health and well-being of my Mom is commendable. You can't find anyone as special as she. Her life commitment has touched our lives through her delivery of exceptional care in a compassionate, respectful, and safe manner on a daily basis. She has become a member of our family and she has shown us the meaning of adaptability. Her strong faith in God, Forgiveness, and Believing in each other makes her the great person that she is. On behalf of our family, we would like to thank you for the extraordinary care and services your company has provided to us. Thank you for all you do”
“We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a few hours a week, they were very thorough in asking about my mother's condition, and what were the needs that were required. It's more like bathing, medication, and companionship. We used them for about a week.”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of Always Best Care for the outstanding service you have provided for our parents. ABC provided professional, first-class support that allowed our parents to remain in their home while relieving of us of concern for their care and is something we will never forget. You can be sure we will happily refer any family member or friend that is seeking care at home to Always Best Care.”
“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at home assisted by the caregivers from your company Always Best Care of Greater Bristol. This letter is a personal thank you from my father and the entire Ceuch family on how your caregivers treated and attended to my father during this time. The caregivers became part of our extended family who shared in countless family events resulting in beautiful lasting memories. Caregivers Frances Boateng, Jeremy Turner, and Yanice Hernandez were awesome in their care of my father. I want to especially acknowledge Francis as a person who went above and beyond his responsibility and became part of the Ceuch inner circle. It was not uncommon for Francis on his off days to stop by during a family picnic to say hello...he is truly loved by my father. Again, I want to thank you for the loving care your caregivers provided my father. I would highly recommend your company to anyone interested in having a caregiver attend to a loved one. Thanks again”
“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for my step father, Daryl. It's unbelievable how the progression of his illness happened so quickly, however, Always Best Care was always ready to provide the level of care he needed as it increased. Most importantly, I'd like to thank his aide, Sue Malasics. She was wonderful to Daryl and took great care of his needs. I knew I did not have to worry with Sue there with him. She was always cooking wonderful homemade meals and desserts and I was happy to see how happy she made Daryl. I think she is a wonderful asset to Always Best Care. Should I know of anyone needing help in the future, I would recommend Always Best Care and Sue Malasics.”
“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure. My mother was also very demanding about her care and who she would allow into her home. After several attempts with various in-home care agencies my mother really responded well to Always Best Care Senior Services of Greater Bristol and we cant thank them enough for the high level of compassionate care they were able to provide during my moms final months.”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal care assistant until placement in a quality skilled nursing facility became available. We reached out to home health care agencies in her local area but, by this point, had already worked with several agencies for med reminders for Barbara (and 24/7 care for our Mom in another area of CT) and were a bit skeptical that that we’d find one that could provide consistent quality of care.When I spoke with Rick Downey of Always Best Care Senior Services in Bristol, he conveyed both confidence in his knowledge of health care and empathy in understanding the frustrations that families experience when seeking quality care for their loved ones. We were next contacted by their care coordinator,Heather Kozikowski, who came to our sister’s home to conduct an assessment and further explain the services offered by Always Best Care.A further testament to the exceptional quality of Always Best Care is the service and care we’ve received after Barbara is no longer a client; our thanks to Always Best Care for the excellent care of our sister, and the peace-of-mind it afforded our family knowing that she was in such kind and competent hands!”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary caregiver for my husbamd/ My husband suffers from dementia and is aphasic. On a Saturday morning in October of 2015, a sudden change in my health required an emergent hospitilization, which late resulted in an extensive rehabilitation stay. Upon my hospitalization, my son reached out to Always Best Care Senior Services of greater Bristol. The Always Best Care team assessed my husband, his needs, and had his care staffed within hours of my son's call. The care provided to my husband has been exceptional. The caregivers as well as the office staff have been attentive to our needs and have met all of our expectations. I would highly recommend Always Best Care to you and anyone who is in need of care for their loved one.”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company, Always Best Care, offered our family and especially the caring, loving attitude that Amber and Natalie displayed to Carol at all times. They were outstanding and you should be proud to place them in any situation with the full expectation they will represent your firm in a most professional manner. Thanks again for all your help.”
“My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office manager. Soon after, I was introduced to the caregiver who would provide care for me. All 3 persons seemed very knowledgeable, experienced anf caring. I was certainly provided with quality service and much respect and compassion.”
“Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of care will be recommended to others. You went above and beyond what was expected.”
“I have a very good providers from this Company”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Lake Fenwick Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Fife 'n Drum Restaurant & Inn or visit Kent station, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Kent, CT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Kent, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Kent, CT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
A ballot item in three Connecticut towns is making waves this summer.On July 31, Warren, Washington and Kent will decide whether they support an ordinance that bans wake surfing and wake boat activities that cause large waves on Lake Waramaug.A wake boat is designed to create wakes in its trail for someone to surf behind. It’s become a divisive topic in the Lake Waramaug community."It's the downdraft of the propellers that stirs up dangerous sediment from the bottom of the lake. And it creates gigantic waves,&...
A ballot item in three Connecticut towns is making waves this summer.
On July 31, Warren, Washington and Kent will decide whether they support an ordinance that bans wake surfing and wake boat activities that cause large waves on Lake Waramaug.
A wake boat is designed to create wakes in its trail for someone to surf behind. It’s become a divisive topic in the Lake Waramaug community.
"It's the downdraft of the propellers that stirs up dangerous sediment from the bottom of the lake. And it creates gigantic waves,” said Bruce Birenboim, who lives on the lake and is part of the organization 'Protect Lake Waramaug,' advocating in favor of this proposal.
"It would be nice to find a way to compromise. Everyone that does it, they want to be respectful of the lake,” said Amie McKay, a South Kent resident who said wake surfing is a fun way to spend time with her family.
The proposed ordinance says wakes cause a safety risk for others in the water. The towns conducted a study, saying the activity erodes the shoreline, and the ordinance indicates wake surfing disrupts the tranquility of the lake.
"This is the only one that's just unsafe for the health of the lake, and it's unsafe for everyone else on the lake,” Birenboim said.
But for people who enjoy wake surfing, they say they always try to be respectful and would be fine only doing so in deeper water and away from shore. They say a ban is divisive and unnecessary.
"It’s a family activity we enjoy doing together and it would be such a shame for that to not exist anymore considering there are other ways for us to compromise rather than having a complete ban,” McKay said.
Lake Waramaug Friends is an organization who says they’re voting against the ordinance next week.
"…Allowing us to come together as a community to reach a compromise and work with CT DEEP to implement common-sense, science-based restrictions that eliminate potential environmental and safety concerns, " the organization said in part.
It's splitting people in the community, and there are signs from people on both sides of the aisle along the Warren Town Beach area.
Kent First Selectman Marty Lindenmayer said there are around 280 homeowners on the lake.
He said there appear to be roughly 40 wake boats using the lake, though he says only three to four have been seen operating at once.
"People are passionate about this who are on the lake. They're good stewards of the lake, there's no doubt about it. It's just a question of the activity to be beneficial or is it more a harm generally," Lindenmayer said.
Now, the fate of wake surfing is in the hands of the voters. Lindenmayer said the vote needs to be unanimous.
"If one town votes against it, the ordinance is dead and other considerations will have to be looked at,” Lindenmayer said.
All three towns will vote from noon to 8 p.m. on July 31. If the measure passes, the fine for violating would be $250.
You can read communication from voters to the towns on both sides of the aisle here.
Where do you like taking your morning walk in Connecticut?A poll of 3,007 respondents by Assisted Living Magazine looked to find “the most walkable and lovable main streets in America.” Out of the top 100 streets across the country, two from the Nutmeg state made the list.The first, ranked 58th overall, was Main Street in Essex, according to Assisted Living Magazine: “Essex’s Main Street doesn’t rush you—it encourages you to take your time. It winds gently toward the river, past homes that ha...
Where do you like taking your morning walk in Connecticut?
A poll of 3,007 respondents by Assisted Living Magazine looked to find “the most walkable and lovable main streets in America.” Out of the top 100 streets across the country, two from the Nutmeg state made the list.
The first, ranked 58th overall, was Main Street in Essex, according to Assisted Living Magazine: “Essex’s Main Street doesn’t rush you—it encourages you to take your time. It winds gently toward the river, past homes that have stood for centuries and gardens that bloom in perfect step with the seasons. The sidewalk is dappled with light from old elms, and you can hear the faint clink of sailboat rigging if the breeze is just right.
“Shops are cozy, quiet, and unmistakably local. A walk here is about moving, yes—but also about looking, listening, and maybe sitting for a spell with a view of the water. The slope is slight, but enough to get your blood moving as you go. It’s a walk that clears your head and fills it with good things.”
Not far behind at 60th is Kent’s Main Street, according to the poll. The Housatonic River runs alongside the road, and the path is flat enough to make for an enjoyable walk. Passerby will find plenty of quaint shops to peruse.
Who took the top spot nationally? Lake Placid’s Main Street in New York, according to Assisted Living Magazine. The former site of the 1980 Winter Olympics, its main street runs along Mirror Lake while offering a soft grade to the street. You may even catch Olympic athletes training, if you are lucky.
Check out the full top ten below, courtesy of Assisted Living Magazine:
“Too often, wellness gets boxed into gyms and gadgets,” says CEO Jeremy Clerc of Assisted Living Magazine. “But the simple act of walking – especially in places that are beautiful, social, and full of charm – can be just as powerful. These main streets remind us that movement can be both joyful and effortless when the environment invites you in.”
In Connecticut, the stunning natural landscapes of small towns sometimes feel too perfect to be real. The Constitution State's most scenic destinations have become known as havens for anyone yearning for beauty in its purest, least commercial form. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous trek that ends with breathtaking panoramic views, a walk through a dense protected forest, or a serene place to sit and watch the glistening water of a pristine river or lake, there is a small town in Connecticut that will offer the nature experience you...
In Connecticut, the stunning natural landscapes of small towns sometimes feel too perfect to be real. The Constitution State's most scenic destinations have become known as havens for anyone yearning for beauty in its purest, least commercial form. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous trek that ends with breathtaking panoramic views, a walk through a dense protected forest, or a serene place to sit and watch the glistening water of a pristine river or lake, there is a small town in Connecticut that will offer the nature experience you crave most.
Within the rolling Litchfield Hills, part of the southern Berkshires, lies Kent, a charming small town brimming with a variety of natural landmarks. Visitors and residents alike are stunned by Kent’s lush forests, sweeping ridgelines, and fiery seasonal autumn colors. In the 2,300-acre Macedonia Brook State Park, hiking up Cobble Mountain will lead you to breathtaking panoramic views of the Catskills, as well as the Taconic Mountains. If a waterfall is on your list of things to see, Kent Falls State Park features a dramatic 250?foot waterfall with a winding stone stair trail that visitors can climb. The Housatonic River is another great place to take in the beauty of Kent. This tranquil river flows through the valley, offering a serene setting for kayaking and fishing.
Both residents of the town and visitors from afar have described Colebrook as a quietly scenic enclave of protected forestland, serene water, and wooded hills. Areas deemed as “Forever Wild”, such as the Sandy Brook Natural Area Preserve and Kitchel Wilderness Preserve, are perfect for hiking among undisturbed wildlife and woodlands. Next to a stunning hardwood-evergreen forest, the Colebrook River Lake, a gigantic reservoir (approximately 700 acres), is a marvelous place for boating, fishing, and kayaking. Avid hikers will appreciate the steep trails at the Sandy Brook Forest Preserve, which are sure to leave a lasting impression.
In Voluntown, natural beauty is impossible to miss. Not only does the Pachaug River run through the heart of Voluntown, but the majority of this quaint town sits inside Pachaug State Forest. In this 27,000?acre protected forest, the rolling hills, lush evergreen forests, and mountain laurel thickets are a one-of-a-kind escape in nature. Visit tranquil ponds like Green Falls and Beach Pond for kayaking, swimming, or quiet reflection. Adventurous and experienced hikers can check out beautiful panoramic vistas after ascending the rocky trails of Devil’s Den and Mount Misery. The journey may not be smooth, but the views are worth it. If you prefer more peaceful activities, try catching a rainbow trout or small-mouth bass at Beach Pond, which is located on the east side of town.
Nestled in the Housatonic Valley at the northern end of Candlewood Lake, Sherman’s rolling hills, open skies, and shimmering shoreline are a picture-perfect combination. The town prioritizes and protects its natural spaces for both residents and visitors. For example, a walk along the boardwalk through wetlands in the Wimisink Preserve allows for birding and quiet nature walks while minimally disrupting the natural habitat. Mallory Preserve also showcases a wooded wetland, as well as trails that go up Turner Mountain to fabulous seasonal lookout points. Another beautiful spot for hiking, bird watching, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing in Sherman to check out is Deer Pond Farm. Add Candlewood Lake’s calm, cool waters to the list of scenic areas in Sherman, and it quickly becomes apparent that this Connecticut town’s natural beauty is without equal.
Cornwall is a sublime retreat set among rolling hills, deep forests, and the graceful Housatonic River. Set in the Berkshire foothills of Litchfield County, the town is blanketed with white pines and grand hemlocks. Protected woodlands, such as Mohawk State Forest, Cathedral Pines Preserve, and Housatonic Meadows State Park, are valued assets in Cornwall, and for good reason. Whether you are looking for Appalachian Trail crossings, sweeping vistas, trout?filled waters, or shaded camping grounds, one of these parks is the perfect setting. Mohawk Mountain is an excellent challenge for hikers, or riverside trails at Pine Knob Loop are more great places to connect to the natural landscapes of Cornwall. Additionally, the iconic West Cornwall Covered Bridge, which arches over the river, is a visual symbol of the town’s harmonious relationship with nature.
New Hartford, a small town of roughly 7,000, is a nature lover’s paradise surrounded by multiple parks and state forests. Nepaug State Forest to the south is a gigantic woodland filled with serene hiking trails and ridgelines with breathtaking valley overlooks. Tubing down the Farmington River is another great way to experience this state park. Brodie Park encompasses the glimmering West Hill Lake, which is ideal for boating and swimming in hot summer months, as well as a dog park and other outdoor recreation spaces. People’s State Forest to the north of the town is another great spot to appreciate local wildlife and scenery.
The town of Morris evokes the stunning natural essence of rural New England. Anchored by Connecticut's largest natural lake, Bantam Lake, the town’s landscape is framed by open skies, seasonal wildflowers, and serene woodlands. Camp Columbia State Park and Forest is a wonderful place to take in the area’s beauty as you hike upward toward majestic vistas, and along Mattatuck Trail, you will find apple orchards, beaver ponds, and Mount Tom’s summit tower. The White Memorial Conservation Center and local preserves protect local wetlands, forests, and meadows so that wildlife in Morris can thrive. Wherever you choose to go in Morris, natural beauty will be there, too.
East Haddam is another example of New England’s natural picturesque charm that will leave a lasting impression. At Devil’s Hopyard State Park, see Chapman Falls, which plunges 60 feet over sculpted rock steps; and the Eightmile River trails lead you through dense forests rich with birdlife. East Haddam Town Beach features calm waters and sandy shores, great for swimming and lounging around in the summer. Complementing these East Haddam highlights, land preserves, wetlands, and ridgelines frame the town in seasonal foliage and wildlife habitat, which maintains the town’s peaceful, unspoiled landscape.
Situated along the Connecticut River just to the south of East Haddam is Lyme, a quaint town where natural bodies of water create extraordinary experiences for outdoor enthusiasts. For example, Selden Neck State Park is a unique island filled with untouched natural beauty that is only accessible via a short boat ride. Cedar Pond and Joshua Pond contain various coves that offer opportunities for exploration and an escape from the modern world. At Nehantic State Forest, trails, trout?stocked ponds, and Nickerson Hill keep visitors busy and inspire wonder. Additionally, trails like Park Road allow hikers to feel like time travelers as they cross over colonial-era stone bridges and pass by beaver ponds in the middle of secluded hardwood forests.
Chester is a lovely town that blends the harmony of nature with historic charm. In Cockaponset State Forest, visitors can observe local wildlife, as well as explore over 100 miles of trails on foot or by bike. This forest also features a lake that is perfect for swimming and fishing. Chester Cedar Swamp, a National Natural Landmark recognized for its rare Atlantic white cedar forest, is also a unique aspect of Chester’s landscape that warrants a visit. Finally, to the east of Chester flows the Connecticut River, which enhances the town's scenic appeal.
Connecticut’s most scenic towns preserve and appreciate nature wonderfully. For residents and visitors alike, these towns represent the simple, sustaining beauty of nature unspoiled. Rivers flowing through valleys, trails winding through magnificent forests, and lakes shimmering under ever-changing skies are abundant in this quiet New England state. The commitment to protecting the land and inviting others to witness its quiet magic is a powerful message that will speak to any lover of nature. Will you accept Connecticut’s invitation to experience its beloved natural scenery?
With their communities split on whether to allow wake boat activities on Lake Waramaug, Warren and Washington have decided to join Kent in moving a proposed ordinance to ban such activities on the lake to a referendum.“This has been discussed for almost two years now, and I think people have made up their mind on how they’re going to vote, whether they favor it or don’t favor it,” Washington First Selectman Jim Brinton said. “People are passionate on both sides of this, and I understand that. … The...
With their communities split on whether to allow wake boat activities on Lake Waramaug, Warren and Washington have decided to join Kent in moving a proposed ordinance to ban such activities on the lake to a referendum.
“This has been discussed for almost two years now, and I think people have made up their mind on how they’re going to vote, whether they favor it or don’t favor it,” Washington First Selectman Jim Brinton said. “People are passionate on both sides of this, and I understand that. … The best thing to do is get it through the residents of the town to vote.”
All three towns will hold referendums on the proposed ordinance on Thursday, July 31, from noon to 8 p.m. at their Town Halls.
Traveling at about 10 mph, wake boats are designed to create 3- to 4-foot high wakes or waves for water sports such as wakeboarding and wakesurfing.
Those in favor of banning wake boats have raised environmental and safety concerns, while pointing out that large waves can affect visitors' ability to enjoy the lake. Several opponents cited the data collected by Terra Vigilis Environmental Group, which the three towns retained in 2023 to conduct a three-phase water quality and wave impact study of Lake Waramaug.
But supporters of allowing wake boats say the proposed ban is “misguided” and would limit how visitors can enjoy the lake. One advocacy group, Lake Waramaug Friends, suggested the towns create an enhanced-wake activity zone instead of enacting a ban on wake boats.
The 655-acre Lake Waramaug, shared among Kent, Warren and Washington, is a popular recreation destination.
After several meetings and public hearings on the impact of wake boats over the past few years, all three towns have voted on a proposed ordinance.
Drafted by the Lake Waramaug Authority, which oversees the lake’s management, the proposed ordinance would prohibit individuals from operating a vessel on Lake Waramaug “while employing one or more ballast tanks, weight-loading, hydrofoils, wake shaper or any other devices(s) to artificially enhance or increase its wake.”
Under the proposed ordinance, all vessels would be inspected and the owner or operator would be required to certify in writing that “any ballast tanks in such vessels have been decontaminated” and their vessels won’t be operated to produce “an artificially enhanced wake.”
Each violation would incur a fine of $250.
The Washington Board of Selectmen voted to move the proposed ordinance to a referendum at a special town meeting on July 17, while the Warren Board of Selectmen voted to move the ordinance to a referendum at a public hearing held the same day.
The Kent Board of Selectmen voted to move the proposed ordinance to a referendum at a town meeting on July 11.
While the recent town meeting in Washington brought “quite a bit of discussion,” Brinton said, “I would venture to say it didn’t move the needle much.”
In Warren, the recent public hearing had “around 60 (people) or better” in attendance and lasted about an hour, First Selectman Greg LaCava said. Supporters of the ban cited safety issues while opponents proposed a “compromise” that would restrict wake boats to certain times and areas on the lake, he said.
There was "great conjecture on both sides for and against the ban," LaCava said. "I kept a rough running track as people went to the podium. … (There were) even a couple of people that were unsure. It was pretty well split on both sides, and some very well thought out arguments were made.”
Kaitlin Keane is thrilled to nurture her journalism career as a weeklies reporter with Hearst and looks forward to becoming better acquainted with the communities in her coverage area. While she enjoys the opportunity to cover breaking news, her beat is generally focused on local profiles and school-centered stories. Outside of her reporting work, she is an avid reader, baker and cyclist.
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