abc-logo
Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

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

Please submit form to schedule a

Personal Care Consultation

Local Magic Personal Care Consultation

Please submit this form below and we will chat shortly!

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Home Care In Germantown, TN

Home Care Germantown, TN

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 Historical Marker - Germantown Historic District 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 Germantown, TN is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Germantown, TN

location Service Areas

The Always Best Care Difference

Since 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.

×
TESTIMONIALS

“Rico Andrews and his care givers are the best. Known them for 5+ years and they are compassionate group I routinely recommend for friends and loved ones.”

Tyler B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“They were excellent and treated my family member with great care. Very professional and prompt to respond if you ever need anything!”

Britne
×
TESTIMONIALS

“They truly provide the BEST care for seniors!!!!!”

Natasha N.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Awesome dependable services”

Beverly M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Exceptional customer service and care”

Jovon P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Very professional and friendly”

Tisha B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent experience. Professional staff. Keisha was very helpful to me.”

Regina C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I absolutely love working at Always Best Care I been here for 6 years they genuinely care about they caregivers you don't get that with a lot of jobs. I will not be going anywhere.”

Nicole B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Top Tier Service and Care In Tennessee”

Cornelius B.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“My experience with Always Best Care was exceptional! Their staff took care of my loved one as if she was there own! Very caring and responsive. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for senior care!”

Kelvin W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides exceptional service. The staff is very personable and responsive.”

Jessica T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“This is the best Home Healthcare company in Memphis Tennessee Hands down!!!”

Kelvin P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“ABC Senior Services is servicing our seniors with care and compassion!”

Alton C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“My experience with Always Best Care was exceptional! Their staff took care of my loved one as if she was there own! Very caring and responsive. Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for senior care!”

Kelvin W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“How to change your Life from Poor to a Multi-millionaire. Join the Illuminati Brotherhood to have a better Life, Power, Fame and Wealth. Learn the right procedures on where to join the real Illuminati Society. Contact via our official WhatsApp using +1 (709) 701-2655 the same NEW MEMBER FIRST BENEFITS You become very rich and famous in just 48hrs after your registration is Approved. weekly payment of $666,000 millions to $1,666,000millions A total life style change (house and cars). And lot more. Kindly follow up for more information illuminati official site Join us Now”

ปัตทมา .
×
TESTIMONIALS

“The office staff are always very friendly, professional, and willing to go the extra mile for their staff.”

Keyona J.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I have been working with ABC for a couple of years now they are the Best so professional in the staff is so helpful I love working for them they have a heart of gold I would recommend anybody to work for them”

Milan P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been great for our mom. Everyone is so kind & Keisha & Michelle try their best to match your loved one with the right person that best fits their personality. We never have to be concerned if their will be someone available to show up & take care of our mom. Always Best Care has been a God send for us!”

Sheila L.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Keisha is great ! I have been there for over a year now, she always answers my questions even when she is off ! Always professional, kind, and goes the extra mile to support the staff. She is the reason I have remained with this company !”

Venice A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Awesome leadership and management! Their business practices excel with attention to detail, care, and flexibility for their clients.”

CJ P.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Great service!”

Christopher C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“Helped me care for my mom!”

Ruth B.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Germantown, TN?

lm-check

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.

lm-check

When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

lm-check

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.

lm-check

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.

 Senior Care Germantown, TN

Types of Elderly Care in Germantown, TN

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal 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:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Germantown, TN
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Germantown, TN
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

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 Howard McVay Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Germantown, TN
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

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 Southern Social or visit Historical Marker - Germantown Brewery District, 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.

 In-Home Care Germantown, TN

Benefits of Home Care in Germantown, TN

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:

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.

Request More Information vector

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

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 Germantown, TN, 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.

 Elderly Care Germantown, TN

Affordable 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:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your TN's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Germantown, TN

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

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 Germantown, TN 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.

Assisted Living Referral Services

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.


Respite Care Germantown, TN

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:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Germantown, TN

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:

  • The Gardens of Germantown
  • Brookdale Germantown
  • Germantown Plantation Senior Living Community
  • Brookdale Dogwood Creek
  • The Village at Germantown
  • HarborChase of Germantown
Home Care Germantown, TN

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.

 In-Home Care Germantown, TN

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

lm-right-arrow
01

A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

lm-right-arrow
02

Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

lm-right-arrow
03

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 Germantown, TN 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.

 Elderly Care Germantown, TN

Latest News in Germantown, TN

Your Updated Guide to Germantown, One of Nashville’s Favorite Neighborhoods

A once off-the-beaten-path pocket neighborhood, Germantown has become a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike, brimming with both historic interest and high-end dining establishments. Boutiques with thoughtfully curated wares sit cheek to cheek with local restaurants helmed by James Beard Award-winning chefs. Coffee shop patios overlook quaint, brick-paved streets, and visitors flock to nostalgic inns and nightlife.And while the March 2020 tornado ravaged many local homes and businesses, Germantown has proven itself to be...

A once off-the-beaten-path pocket neighborhood, Germantown has become a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike, brimming with both historic interest and high-end dining establishments. Boutiques with thoughtfully curated wares sit cheek to cheek with local restaurants helmed by James Beard Award-winning chefs. Coffee shop patios overlook quaint, brick-paved streets, and visitors flock to nostalgic inns and nightlife.

And while the March 2020 tornado ravaged many local homes and businesses, Germantown has proven itself to be as resilient as it is charming, with little evidence remaining of the storm’s devastating effects.

Check out our favorite spots in this iconic Nashville neighborhood! There’s a LOT to see and do – you can use these links to browse by category:

EAT + DRINK

Now known as a dining mecca, Germantown first made a serious splash on the culinary scene in 2016, when City House won a James Beard Award, and then again in 2019, when Tailor Nashville landed on Bon Appétit‘s Top 10 list. These days, Tailor continues to wow in its recently renovated location on Taylor Street. But these aren’t the only dining experiences worth venturing to Germantown for. Here are all of the delicious ways to eat and drink your way through the neighborhood!

We are grateful to all our sponsors:

The Germantown shopping scene is ripe for exploration — but fully experiencing the neighborhood requires walking with your eyes (and perhaps your wallet …) wide open!

PAMPER + EXERCISE

Health and beauty fans will be delighted to discover a number of great places in Germantown to indulge in a bit of self-care and fitness.

MORE TO EXPLORE

Germantown’s food culture is alive and well, but the neighborhood also beckons visitors with brick sidewalks, homes dating back to the 19th century, a vast history worth diving into, and a community of neighbors who care deeply about the place they call home. For example, did you know that by 1865, Germantown was home to four breweries? A historical marker recognizes its original inhabitants for their skills.

Driving around Germantown offers a chance to experience the area’s rich historic narrative. Residential buildings such as the 1881-built Werthan Mills Lofts and Elliott Germantown offer a glimpse of the past as townhomes and apartments breathe new life into structures that formerly housed a cotton mill and a school, respectively.

Former Historic Germantown Neighborhood Association President Richard Audet paints a picture of the neighborhood when he first arrived as a resident nearly 15 years ago.

“The most striking difference is in the number of people you see in the neighborhood. Before, you’d rarely see someone when you looked out the window,” he explains. “Now, there is a steady procession of people walking through the streets thanks to the influx of small businesses.”

Richard highlights that Germantown has always been a tight-knit community with historic charm, crediting its community members with preserving its story during times of growth. Look to the Elliott School for a success story of neighborhood activists, who purchased the building after years of neglect from a development firm in 1989 to preserve it.

Of course, more than a dozen other residential buildings in the neighborhood have been constructed more recently, including the Ellis at Germantown and the Flats at Taylor Place.

Other neighborhood projects include the Neuhoff Project, a revival of riverfront property that was once a meat-packing plant. Meanwhile, the neighborhood association continues focusing on infrastructure and making the area an even better place to live, work, and play.

The Church of the Assumption was fashioned in 1895 using bricks from Nashville’s first Catholic church, and the land it occupies was deeded to the diocese by Dr. McGavock for only $5. Most people also don’t know that the church held the neighborhood’s first Oktoberfest, a neighborhood affair for over 40 years.

If you hang your hat at Germantown Inn, you’ll find it interesting that the building dates back to 1865, and its original owner was a shoemaker named H.H. Wallmann. Inside the boutique hotel, each room is inspired by a notable U.S. president or history-making woman. “The physical structure of Germantown is changing, but it is the story of the neighborhood that we need to preserve,” Richard reiterates.

Additionally, Germantown boasts significant cultural history, with efforts to highlight Jefferson Street’s origins, such as the Jefferson Street Sound Museum and J.U.M.P. (Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership).

Just outside of the neighborhood’s small footprint, more restaurants, parks, and cultural destinations contribute to Germantown’s appeal. The Nashville Farmers’ Market is a year-round market with an indoor food hall worth exploring, including popular spots like The Picnic Tap and Jeni’s Ice Cream.

The Bicentennial Mall provides space to stretch your legs and take in views of the capitol. First Horizon Park is home to the Nashville Sounds and hosts a variety of fun events in the off-season. (Von Elrod’s Beer Hall and Kitchen is across the street from the entrance, where you can indulge in a little post-game revelry or weekly trivia nights!)

If you’re a bowling fan, Brooklyn Bowl is a hefty dose of fun with live music shows, libations, nibbles, and bowling. Just over the river (but visible from the streets of Germantown), Top Golf offers a haven for practice, lessons, leagues, and events. And if you’re eager to experience the frenzy of downtown Nashville, you’re only a few minutes away from Broadway.

Stroll the streets of Germantown to discover all of this and more!

Looking for more of the best in Nashville? Subscribe to our free daily emails!

Germantown water crisis: What an independent review concluded about diesel contamination

A non-finalized independent review of the Germantown water contamination was presented Monday night at the Germantown Mayor and Board of Alderman meeting. James Lewellen, former Collierville Town Administrator, was selected in August to conduct the independent review.Lewellen was tasked wit...

A non-finalized independent review of the Germantown water contamination was presented Monday night at the Germantown Mayor and Board of Alderman meeting. James Lewellen, former Collierville Town Administrator, was selected in August to conduct the independent review.

Lewellen was tasked with conducting a review in addition to an after-action assessment of the water contamination in Germantown. He said that the water crisis that occurred was a "black swan" event and that Germantown was as prepared as could have been.

"Everyone involved including regulatory agencies, consultants ? they all had no experience with this kind of contamination of water," Lewellen said. "Everyone had to learn and had to decide to incorporate types of response during the event."

On July 20 at the Southern Avenue Water Treatment Plant, approximately 300 gallons of diesel spilled after an employee error. The diesel leaked into the soil surrounding the pipes that lead to the underground reservoir. While the city attempted to mitigate the error by removing the contaminated soil, they did not realize a pipe had a leak in it and was feeding trace amounts of deiseal into the water.

It was only after the leaky pipe was patched, and new soil was placed into the ground, that diesel was no longer contaminating the water supply.

In the presentation, Lewellen said that the problem was a "well-hidden problem," and there was nothing that could have been done to shorten the time "except for maybe by a few hours."

While their response to the emergency and reaction to it was standard, Lewellen said the communication to the public could have been better.

In Lewellen's report, he said there was a lack of clear and concise communication with residents in Germantown. Lewellen suggested in the presentation that communication about emergency situations be improved in the future by developing a communication system that will aid in understanding.

More:Germantown sued for records about diesel fuel spill into city water supply

During the span of the crisis, Germantown would release all the water testing information but did not explain the metrics until days after they were initially posted.

"We (did) a great job of distributing information, but we don't have the systems in place to ensure our understanding. That's closing (of) the loop is making sure that our information is received, understood the context that we're going for it to be understood," Lewellen said.

Wrapping up the presentation, Lewellen made sure to tell the board and the mayor that the work that employees who were on the front lines did was commendable. Lewellen listed the names of some employees who worked overtime for days in order to solve the contamination.

"We're fortunate that there are people out there who still think that hard work has its own reward, and they just have to go out and do it every day in order to be able to sleep at night," Lewellen said.

Brooke Muckerman covers Shelby County Government for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached at (901) 484-6225, brooke.muckerman@commercialappeal.com and followed on X/Twitter @BrookeMuckerman.

Water restrictions lifted for some Germantown residents: What to know

As a water crisis ended its fourth day, the city of Germantown and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation late Sunday "reached an agreement to allow water customers east of Forest Hill Irene Road to resume consumption and normal use of water" from the city system effective at 9 p.m. on July 23.The city said some additional areas are also included. An interactive map, identifying the specific area in blue, is available at Germantown-TN.gov/WaterRestorationMap.Germantown said TDEC has reques...

As a water crisis ended its fourth day, the city of Germantown and Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation late Sunday "reached an agreement to allow water customers east of Forest Hill Irene Road to resume consumption and normal use of water" from the city system effective at 9 p.m. on July 23.

The city said some additional areas are also included. An interactive map, identifying the specific area in blue, is available at Germantown-TN.gov/WaterRestorationMap.

Germantown said TDEC has requested that additional testing be performed before making a decision about the rest of the city. The additional testing was underway as of Sunday. The city advised that customers outside the area where the restriction has been lifted should wait until their area is released "to complete any flushing."

What to do if your water restrictions have been lifted

In a statement, Germantown said: "Customers in the area east of Forest Hill-Irene Road must flush interior service lines to remove water that has been standing in interior pipes. Those in this area who have not detected the smell of diesel in their home may simply open all faucets, hot and cold, and allow them to run for five minutes. After this flushing of water service lines is complete, customers may resume their normal water consumption."

The city added that residents who have detected odor from the water in their home should follow a more extensive process outlined by the Environmental Protection Agency. That process is outlined here:

The city said that if residents detect a residual odor in the water after this more extensive flushing process is complete, customers should contact customer service at CustomerService@Germantown-TN.gov or (901) 757-7200.

More:Germantown stores and residents still without water; no update on when water will be safe

Why did city decide to partially lift the restriction?

The city added in a statement: "While the entire Germantown water system is fed by both the Southern Avenue and Johnson Road water treatment plants, the decision to partially lift the restriction was based on the knowledge of how water flows through the system and the absence of odor reports taken in the area."

On Thursday, Germantown first advised residents not to consume the city's tap water. After a few residents reported their tap water had a strong odor, Germantown’s water department staffers determined a generator — which was powering the Southern Avenue water treatment facility during the current power outage — had been leaking diesel fuel into an underground reservoir.

Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris declared a local state of emergency Monday due to the July 18 storms, which caused over 130,000 Memphis Light, Gas and Water customers to lose power. The storm caused the water treatment plant to lose power, and a generator was used to power the Southern Avenue water treatment facility.

During a news briefing Thursday evening, officials said that, at worst, 100 gallons of diesel fuel had leaked into the underground reservoir, which contains about 4.2 million gallons of water.

The Germantown Fire Department on Thursday deployed a hazardous materials response team to the plant, the city said. The leak was stopped and TDEC was called in to ensure the response met its standards.

According to the city, crews drained the affected reservoirs to a level that allowed a safe neutralizing agent to be applied early Friday morning. By midday Friday, reservoirs were refilled and water was pumped into the elevated tower to address any residue in the system.

Work was conducted with oversight from TDEC and Shelby County Emergency Management Agency. Initial samples were sent to a local lab, and the Shelby County Health Department is independently testing samples.

Is Germantown water safe to drink?

The answer to that question is different based on where you live. Sunday night, the city of Germantown and the TDEC said water is safe for residents who live east of Forest Hill Irene Road and in several other areas.

Not all residents have received the "all clear." As of Monday morning, it was not clear when the water restriction will be lifted for all residents, according to Stacey Crockett, chief communications officer for the city of Germantown. Residents who are cleared to use their water should clear their water lines before use.

Residents currently living in areas that have not been given the "all clear" should only use water for flushing toilets.

Can I take a shower in Germantown with the current water quality alert?

If you live in the areas determined by the city of Germantown and TDEC where water is now safe to use, you must clear the system before returning to normal use.

For areas that are currently not in all clear zones, using water should only be used for flushing toilets.

Can I wash my dishes in the sink or dishwasher?

Germantown residents who do not live east of Forest Hill Irene Road, or in the few other designated areas, are still advised to only use water to flush their toilets. Dishes and clothing washed in areas where the restriction has not been lifted will need to be rewashed before use.

Those who live in areas where the restriction has been lifted need to flush their water lines before use. The city also advises those who have not been given the all-clear to not flush their lines yet.

"It does no good for residents to complete flushing prior to the restriction being lifted for their area. We want to be sure that the water used to flush pipes is clean," Crockett said in an email.

Where can I get bottled water?

Monday, bottled water (one case per car) will be available at Forest Hill Elementary, 3368 Forest Hill Irene Rd., from 4 to 7 p.m.

Residents can also bring their own containers to fill at Bailey Station Elementary, 3435 Bailey Station Rd. in Collierville from 4 to 7 p.m.

Where does Germantown its water from?

The Germantown water system pulls water from the Memphis Sand Aquifer and uses two water treatment facilities, the Southern Avenue and Johnson Road water treatment plants, to treat the water.

The entire Germantown water system is treated by both the Southern Avenue and Johnson Road Water treatment plants. The decision to partially lift the restriction was made based on the knowledge of how water flows through the system in addition to the absence of reported odor in the area, according to the city.

The city also urges residents to sign up to receive text notifications from the Germantown alert system. To opt in, visit Germantown-TN.gov/alert or text “alert” to 901-979-9955. Those who register via text must be sure to complete the registration process by clicking the link in the text reply.

Brooke Muckerman covers county government for The Commercial Appeal. She can be reached via email at Brooke.Muckerman@CommercialAppeal.com and followed on Twitter @BrookeMuckerma

Germantown Town Hall on water crisis set for Thursday, Aug. 3 | Here's how to submit questions

The town hall is set for Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, at 6 p.m. Officials said the facilitator for the meeting will pick the questions most frequently asked.MEMPHIS, Tenn — Germantown city leaders are asking residents to submit questions ahead of a town hall Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, on the water crisis.The town hall will take place at Germantown Performin...

The town hall is set for Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, at 6 p.m. Officials said the facilitator for the meeting will pick the questions most frequently asked.

MEMPHIS, Tenn — Germantown city leaders are asking residents to submit questions ahead of a town hall Thursday, Aug. 3, 2023, on the water crisis.

The town hall will take place at Germantown Performing Arts Center, 1801 Exeter Road, from 6 to 8 p.m. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.

Officials said a facilitator for the meeting will pick the questions most frequently asked. To submit questions, go to Germantown-TN.gov/TownHall. Those watching online and in attendance at GPAC can also use a QR code to submit questions digitally during the meeting. Leaders said paper forms will also be available. There will also be an opportunity for the public to ask questions and comment in-person.

The town hall will also be streamed on Germantown’s YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@GermantownTenn.

Among those set to be on the town hall panel are Mayor Mike Palazzolo, City Administrator Jason Huisman, other city staff members and representatives from contractors who assisted in addressing the crisis.

The city said Tuesday morning that all water samples collected Sunday, July 30, are 'clear, non-detect for diesel.' The City released the results of the samples HERE. They said this video explains the testing and 'interpretation of results.'

But on Wednesday, according to the city, one fire hydrant located near Germantown Fire Station 3 came back testing for a small amount of "diesel organics" in the water. The city said that hydrant and others in the area were flushed, and a new sample will be tested.

The city said it continues to conduct main line flushing in target areas still experiencing residual odor.

City of Germantown partially lifts water restriction, officials say

GERMANTOWN, Tenn. -City officials said that Germantown and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation have reached an agreement to allow water customers east of Forest Hill and Irene Road to resume consumption and normal use of water from the city's system.This went into effect at 9 p.m. Sunday, July 23.The Health Department's Environmental Health and Food Safety Program are making sure restaurants do not use tap water, officials say.This ensure restaurants are serving limited menus that can be prepared usi...

GERMANTOWN, Tenn. -City officials said that Germantown and the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation have reached an agreement to allow water customers east of Forest Hill and Irene Road to resume consumption and normal use of water from the city's system.

This went into effect at 9 p.m. Sunday, July 23.

The Health Department's Environmental Health and Food Safety Program are making sure restaurants do not use tap water, officials say.

This ensure restaurants are serving limited menus that can be prepared using bottled waters and some to prepare foods at an alternative site, officials said.

Sarah Farley, a spokesperson for Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare, said, "To minimize the impact of the current water situation in Germantown, Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown is taking precautions to ensure the well-being of our patients, including diverting some patients to nearby hospitals, delaying some procedures and issuing bottled water."

The partially lifted restriction is following the water crisis in Germantown last week.

The announcement comes after the Mid-South was hit by severe storms Tuesday evening that caused thousands to go without power days later.

There are also additional areas included in the lifted restrictions. Germantown officials have provided an interactive map here.

TDEC has requested that additional testing be performed before making a decision regarding the remainder of the community.

The additional testing is currently in process and results will be reviewed late into the evening, according to Germantown officials.

Below are the instructions for water customers EAST of Forest Hill-Irene Road from the city of Germantown

Customers in the area of east of Forest Hill-Irene Road must flush interior service lines to remove water that has been standing in interior pipes. Those in this area who have not detected the smell of diesel in their home may simply open all faucets, hot and cold, and allow them to run for five minutes. After this flushing of water service lines is complete, customers may resume their normal water consumption.

Those who have detected odor from the water in their home should follow the more extensive process that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has provided below:

Step 1: Open a couple of cold water taps and run for 15 minutes to clear the customer service line from main. Step 2: Open each cold tap one at a time and run that for 5 min to clean that specific line. Begin nearest to where water enters the building and move toward the farthest tap. Repeat for the rest of the cold taps. Step 3: Repeat steps 1 and 2 by running hot water through the taps. Step 4: Any dishes or clothing washed while the restriction was in place should be rewashed. Step 5: Water-using devices may require additional cleaning steps in addition to flushing (e.g., discarding ice). Consult the device manufacturer’s maintenance instructions.

If residual odor is detected in the water after this more extensive flushing process is complete, customers should contact customer service at CustomerService@Germantown-TN.gov or (901) 757-7200.

In a release acquired by FOX13 on July 24, one case per car of bottled water will be available at Forest Hill Elementary on Forest Hill Road from 4-7 p.m.

Germantown residents can also fill an unlimited supply of water at Bailey Station Elementary on Bailey Station Road in Collierville from 4-7 p.m., officials said.

Download the FOX13 Memphis app to receive alerts from breaking news in your neighborhood.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

Trending stories:

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.