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 Litchfield Town Green in Litchfield, CT 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 Litchfield, 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.
“We were grateful to the assistance ABC could provide our Family. The aide assigned has”
“The hospice caretakers were so wonderful and loving with my Dad. They really helped us.”
“I am very happy with this company's care and their excellent care givers. Thank You❣️”
“✨ worked here as caregiver and it was a blessing ,thank you for the opportunity They”
“Always Best Care in Bristol provided wonderful support for our family. Their team was compassionate,”
“We have been very pleased with Always Best Care Agency for the past year. Sue has”
“This is a 5 star home care company. Our aide Seth is very professional and”
“We have had wonderful aides. Agency has been responsive to our needs.”
“I am a current client of this provider Most caring agency around. My husband needs total”
“Other ABC provides a person to cook and do laundry for my mother. The people I”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us”
“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work”
“I am a current client of this provider We used Always Best Care for my mother.”
“Thank you so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad”
“Thank you so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad”
“To honor Bob's memory, enjoy a round of golf, share your music with others, make”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of”
“Thank you again to you, Susan and the rest of the care-givers and staff of”
“Thank you for the excellent care given to my mom. It was a huge weight”
“The Renchy family of Guilford would like to thank the staff and caretakers at CT”
“Rick/Heather, Thank you for providing excellent customer service !! I have received several emails and”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently”
“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”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company,”
“I had a very good experience ! I really appreciate the service that your company,”
“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 with”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of”
“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”
“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began with”
“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring”
“I am a current client of this provider I have a very good providers from this”
“We were grateful to the assistance ABC could provide our Family. The aide assigned has a great work ethic, likeability, and sense of humor. Our Family member enjoyed sharing laughs with the aide. Pat D. calmly worked to find help for expanded client needs under tight timelines and Family duress.”
“The hospice caretakers were so wonderful and loving with my Dad. They really helped us. We are very thankful for them. Only thing I would suggest is to make sure the family knows how to roll and change patient before they are left alone to take care of their family member. Thank you again”
“I am very happy with this company's care and their excellent care givers. Thank You❣️”
“✨ worked here as caregiver and it was a blessing ,thank you for the opportunity They are caring and I always had good clients . I had to move to Texas but I will recommend this home care for your loved ones✨ ????️????️????️????️????️”
“Always Best Care in Bristol provided wonderful support for our family. Their team was compassionate, reliable, and truly attentive to our loved one’s needs. They kept us updated, which gave us great peace of mind. Highly recommend them to anyone seeking trustworthy, professional senior home care in the Bristol area. Outstanding service!”
“We have been very pleased with Always Best Care Agency for the past year. Sue has helped us with finding the perfect match for our mother’s needs. The caregivers that they screen are kind and capable, very professional, my mother glows with contentment when they arrive which puts us at ease as a family.”
“This is a 5 star home care company. Our aide Seth is very professional and caring. She does a great job making my life much easier. I would recommend Always Best Care Bristol to anyone.”
“We have had wonderful aides. Agency has been responsive to our needs.”
“I am a current client of this provider Most caring agency around. My husband needs total care and the agency does a perfect job supplying us with the right caregivers.”
“Other ABC provides a person to cook and do laundry for my mother. The people I have spoken to at the agency have been extremely helpful but more importantly kind and understanding. I have gotten quick responses to any inquiries I have made. The caregiver has been more than flexible and provides reliable help for my mother. I am feeling confident my mother is getting quality care to help her stay in her home.”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us longer than we did. This was very sudden and in Gods hands I guess. Her last meal was the pasta you made. We tried it too. It was excellent. So you provided her favorite meal. Thank you for that. We would recommend you to anyone who is in need of such services. Be well.”
“We appreciate all that you did and would have loved to have Seth with us longer than we did. This was very sudden and in Gods hands I guess. Her last meal was the pasta you made. We tried it too. It was excellent. So you provided her favorite meal. Thank you for that. We would recommend you to anyone who is in need of such services. Be well”
“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”
“I am a current client of this provider 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 so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad during his illness. We are so grateful that your service was available and that you were all true to your words - you were there to help EVERY step of the way - Our words don't seem enough to express our gratitude. We will miss you all but never forget and we tell everyone we know about your agency and staff.”
“Thank you so much for all the incredible attention you gave our family and dad during his illness. We are so grateful that your service was available and that you were all true to your words - you were there to help EVERY step of the way - Our words don't seem enough to express our gratitude. We will miss you all but never forget and we tell everyone we know about your agency and staff”
“To honor Bob's memory, enjoy a round of golf, share your music with others, make your town a better place, have coffee with a friend, help someone in need, and fill every day with two days' worth of life! The family would like to thank caregivers Pauline and Yvette of Always Best Care of Bristol and Hartford Healthcare at Home for their extraordinary care.”
“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.”
“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.”
“Thank you for the excellent care given to my mom. It was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders knowing that Cynthia was there to care for her. Mom was very fond of Cynthia as well as the rest of the family.”
“The Renchy family of Guilford would like to thank the staff and caretakers at CT Hospice of Branford and the CT Hospice Homecare as well as the staff and caretakers from Always Best Care. A special thank you to Sue Dow who helped the family navigate the homecare process over the past several years.”
“Rick/Heather, Thank you for providing excellent customer service !! I have received several emails and phone calls from caregivers who have provided positive feedback about the aids that you deploy to their loved ones (my consumers). This can only be a reflection of your hiring practices and the training that you provide, we appreciate the excellent quality of service.”
“I am a past client of this provider 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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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 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.”
“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.”
“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 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.”
“I am a past client of this provider 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 am a current client of this provider 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 Topsmead State Forest in Litchfield, CT 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 West Street Grill or visit White Memorial Conservation Center, 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 Litchfield, 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 Litchfield, 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 Litchfield, 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.
Litchfield County is one of those places that just feels a little bit special. Scenic state parks, charming farms, and unmistakable Gilmore Girls vibes, it’s filled with well-known spots. However, there are even more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re planning an easy day trip or a full weekend getaway, there’s no shortage of fun family-friendly places to explore throughout Litchfield County.Looking for more family spots? Sign up for our free newsletter, chec...
Litchfield County is one of those places that just feels a little bit special. Scenic state parks, charming farms, and unmistakable Gilmore Girls vibes, it’s filled with well-known spots. However, there are even more hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re planning an easy day trip or a full weekend getaway, there’s no shortage of fun family-friendly places to explore throughout Litchfield County.
Looking for more family spots? Sign up for our free newsletter, check out our Activities Calendar, and follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
Best dining with a view: White Horse Pub & Restaurant
Top spot for animal encounters: Action Wildlife Foundation
Most unique cat-centric spot in CT: Perk and Paws Cat Cafe
Top choice for Kid-friendly museum: Railroad Museum of New England
Best venue for variety of family fun: March Farm
Take a look at the animal encounters that await in Litchfield County! photo courtesy of March Farm
You truly haven’t experienced anything quite like Action Wildlife. Drive through the grounds for a safari-style adventure right from your car. Perfect for to go at the pace especially with kids. Along the way, you can stop to get up close with animals and even feed them, from donkeys and camels to zebras. There’s also a play area for when the kids need a break from the drive. Afterward, head into the museum, where you’ll find an impressive collection of hundreds of animals from around the world.
Known for: Drive thru safari experience
Known for its scenic views, Lake Waramaug is a go-to spot for families. Spend the day swimming and enjoying a beach-style picnic or get out on the water by renting kayaks or paddleboards. If you bring bikes, many families love riding the loop around the lake together. It's a great spot to spend a day together.
Known for: Scenic views year round
Take the whole family for a scenic hike at Kent Falls State Park. With beginner trails under a mile from start to finish, it’s perfect for little legs and an easy way to enjoy the outdoors. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the stunning 250-foot cascading waterfall! Leashed dogs are welcome, so your furry friends can join the fun too.
Known for: Easy trails for families to enjoy
With a nature museum, 40 miles of scenic trails, and a kid favorite boardwalk, White Memorial Conservation Center is perfect for a full day of family fun. Choose from hikes of varying distances and skill levels. Or stroll along the flat Little Pond Boardwalk, ideal for little ones and strollers. The interactive nature museum is a must, featuring live animals, hands-on exhibits, and a cozy space where kids can relax and play.
Known for: Little Pond Boardwalk is a family favorite
A fourth-generation farm packed with family-friendly fun, March Farm offers over 30,000 square feet of entertainment for kids. From climbing tractor tires and exploring themed playhouses to racing around the tricycle track, there’s no shortage of ways to play. Meet farm animals up close, wander through the corn maze, and pick your own seasonal fruit to round out a perfect day.
Known for: The tricycle track at the farm play area
Fox and the Buck Farm is a year-round must-visit destination for families. Their stunning pick-your-own flower fields are a highlight and make for a fun outing everyone will love. From vibrant blooms in warmer months to seasonal favorites like pumpkin picking and Christmas tree cutting, there’s something to enjoy all year long.
Known for: Pick-your-own flowers
All aboard for family fun in Litchfield County. Photo courtesy of Railroad Museum of New England
What kid doesn’t love a train? From ice cream specials to the popular Santa Express, The Railroad Museum of New England offers a variety of themed train rides that everyone loves. Before or after your ride, explore the museum to learn about the history of railroads and see vintage trains up close.
Known for: Being more than an experience: train ride + museum
Books are for everyoneespecially Gilmore Girls fans. Hickory Stick Bookshop features a special section dedicated to all things Gilmore Girls, making it a must-visit for fans of the show. Not a fan? It’s still a charming spot to browse, discover new reads, and get lost among the shelves.
Known for: A dedicated Gilmore Girls section
A favorite for families in Litchfield County, KidsPlay Children’s Museum is packed with opportunities for hands-on play. Kids can explore fun exhibits like an interactive dental center, traverse climbing wall, pond hockey area, and the Freeman Foundation Asian Culture Exhibit Series. With so much to see and do, the hardest part is getting your kids to leave!
Known for: Unlimited pretend play and impressive exhibits
A true cat lover’s experience, Perk and Paws Cat Café lets you reserve a 50-minute session to interact with adoptable cats while enjoying a drink or light snack. It’s a cozy, fun outing for families and animal lovers alike.
Known for: A full cat experience
A true farm-to-chocolate experience! Thorncrest Farm and Milk House Chocolates offer a one-of-a-kind stop in Litchfield County. Families can visit the barn to meet the cows, then head to the charming chocolate shop to sample small-batch, handcrafted chocolates made fresh daily using the farm’s own milk and cream.
Known for: A chocolate lover’s destination
With the iconic TV show Gilmore Girls inspired by Washington Depot, this charming town is a must-visit for fans looking to step into their own Stars Hollow moment. Wander through local favorites like Marty’s Café, The Hickory Stick Bookshop, and Five Janes to soak in the small-town charm and nostalgic vibes.
Known for: Full Gilmore Girls Experience
Enjoy great food with an amazing view at White Horse Country Pub & Restaurant. Photo courtesy of the venue
No trip to Litchfield County is complete without a visit to Arethusa. Start your day at Arethusa A Mano, a charming coffee and breakfast spot known for its delicious donuts and fresh-made treats. Then, head across the street to enjoy homemade ice cream made with milk from their very own farm in Bantam.
Known for: Amazing donuts, but also everything!
The White Horse Country Pub combines delicious comfort food with a charming country atmosphere. Overlooking the river and waterfall, the outdoor patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a family-friendly lunch or dinner surrounded by beautiful Litchfield County scenery. Be sure to request outdoor seating for the full experience!
Known for: Outdoor views
A super cute spot for breakfast or lunch with the family, this café is a must-visit for coffee lovers. With an impressive menu of flavors and creative combinations, there’s a drink option for everyone.
Known for: A coffee lover’s destination
On a recent hot and sunny morning, the first Litchfield County Clipper excursion traveled from Torrington to Thomaston and back again, shuttling visitors on a vintage passenger train for a scenic ride.The train, owned and operated by the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston and its partner, the Naugatuck Railroad, is overseen by a crew of conductors, narrators and operators.In the bar car, Trish Gallucci wore a bright red blouse under her black uniform and greeted passengers as they found a seat.The first train ex...
On a recent hot and sunny morning, the first Litchfield County Clipper excursion traveled from Torrington to Thomaston and back again, shuttling visitors on a vintage passenger train for a scenic ride.
The train, owned and operated by the Railroad Museum of New England in Thomaston and its partner, the Naugatuck Railroad, is overseen by a crew of conductors, narrators and operators.
In the bar car, Trish Gallucci wore a bright red blouse under her black uniform and greeted passengers as they found a seat.
The first train excursions were on July 12, and continue through the summer.
RMNE and Naugatuck Railroad members Scott Ornstein, Kevin J. Meehan, Ted Gallucci, Orion Newall, Alex Formanek, Craig Czarsty, Ethan Mandolfo and Stuart Crouse, waited on the platform for last-minute passengers to arrive.
Meehan, a member since 1996, was resplendent in a crisp black uniform and white shirt, with brass buttons and a conductor’s cap. He said he’s loved trains since the age of 9.
“My father bought me my first train set,” he said. “This is a dream come true, to work here and be around them. I enjoy it.”
Craig Czarsty was the station agent for the day; he also coordinates volunteers for the railroad museum.
“The passengers enjoy hearing about the railroad, and we’re always looking for more people to volunteer with us,” he said. “Just give us a call.”
“We’re all actors on the train, portraying different characters who worked on the railroad,” Meehan said.
The train cars, with wide leather seats and rows of tall windows for scenic viewing, were carrying about 55 passengers on the Clipper’s first round trip of the day, heading out to Thomaston, where it turns around and comes back to Torrington.
Three round trips offer a window of time at each stop, giving passengers a chance to explore, eat and shop. In Thomaston, the train stops at the station, where passengers can also explore, eat and shop. A schedule is available on the RMNE’s website, rmne.org. The Torrington stops are at Market Street Creatives, 100 Lawton St., and Railroad Square Platform (Downtown Torrington), 99 Railroad Square. The Thomaston stop is at Thomaston Station, 242 East Main St.
According to rmne.org, the original Naugatuck Railroad was chartered in 1845, and opened in 1849 between Bridgeport and Winsted, adjacent to the Naugatuck River.
“Changing economic climates over the years led to a number of ownership changes until regular service north of Waterbury ended in 1995,” members wrote on the website. “Around the same time, after three decades of preserving and restoring New England’s railroad heritage, we were looking for a new home, and we chose Thomaston.”
The old Naugatuck Railroad name was restored by state charter, and the new Naugatuck Railroad was incorporated June 7, 1995 as a wholly owned subsidiary of RMNE.
Their first passenger trains ran in October of 1996 and continue to be a popular attraction, with Christmas train rides for children and families, scenic autumn trains and other events. The railroad’s Chocolate Decadence Tour, for example, takes passengers to Fascia’s Chocolates in Waterbury, a longtime candymaker.
City officials, in a statement, said the Sunday train trips mark “a significant milestone for Torrington and the region, bringing renewed passenger rail service to the city after more than six decades and building on recent downtown infrastructure investments, including the completion of the new $4.2 million Railroad Square Platform.
By connecting visitors directly with Torrington’s downtown arts district and small-business community, the Litchfield County Clipper is expected to serve as both a tourism experience and an economic development driver in both communities.
“We are thrilled to welcome the return of passenger boarding in Torrington for the first time in decades,” said Torrington Mayor Molly Spino, in a statement. “The Litchfield County Clipper represents more than just a train excursion … With stops at Railroad Square and Market Street Creatives, passengers will experience the creativity, culture, and energy that make Torrington such a unique destination in Northwest Connecticut.”
On the Sunday trip, Mandolfo, a younger member, was assigned to be the trip narrator.
“I describe the scenery, things people are seeing as we go by,” he said. “I also help out with ticket sales.”
The Sunday train travels along the Naugatuck River, through Litchfield County, and across the historic Thomaston Dam.
Formanek, the RMNE’s general manager, said he hoped people would take advantage of the Sunday train rides.
“Hopefully the weather will be nice on Sundays, and we’ll have passengers,” he said.
Suddenly, the train came to life with a long and short hoot.
On cue, the conductors and officials climbed aboard. Passengers were already settled in two cars, including the bar car. Then the train was off, and everyone seemed to be smiling.
“There’s something about trains,” Ornstein said. “People love to ride them, to look at them. It does something to them.”
Tickets and additional information about the Litchfield County Clipper and the other train trips offered at the RMNE are available at www.rmne.org/excursions/countyclipper.
Lakefront property, historic estates, and protected land are reshaping what buyers are willing to pay in one of Connecticut’s most storied townsSALISBURY, CTElyse Harney Real Estate reports sustained and growing buyer demand in Salisbury, Connecticut, driven by two distinct forms of scarcity that are increasingly well understood by the high-net-worth buyers entering the market. Lakefront property on Salisbury’s lakes, where true shoreline frontage is finite and cannot be created through new construction, cont...
Lakefront property, historic estates, and protected land are reshaping what buyers are willing to pay in one of Connecticut’s most storied towns
SALISBURY, CT
Elyse Harney Real Estate reports sustained and growing buyer demand in Salisbury, Connecticut, driven by two distinct forms of scarcity that are increasingly well understood by the high-net-worth buyers entering the market. Lakefront property on Salisbury’s lakes, where true shoreline frontage is finite and cannot be created through new construction, continues to command significant premiums over comparable inland properties. Historic estates, original Colonials and farmhouses with two centuries of presence on protected land, are drawing a separate buyer profile for whom authenticity and irreplaceability are the primary purchase criteria.
Bill Melnick, a luxury real estate specialist with Elyse Harney Real Estate who has worked the Salisbury market extensively, describes the dynamic in practical terms. “Someone unfamiliar with the market might look at a lake house and try to understand the price based on the size of the house,” he said. “That’s often the wrong way to look at it. They’re not just buying square footage. They’re buying frontage, views and an experience that can’t be replicated.”
The same logic applies to Salisbury’s historic properties. “You can build a historically inspired house,” Melnick said. “You can’t build a house that’s been sitting beautifully on the same piece of land for 200 years.”
Conservation plays a central role in the Salisbury market’s long-term value proposition. A significant portion of land in and around the town is protected through easements and preservation agreements, which limits development pressure and preserves the views, fields, and open landscape that buyers are purchasing alongside the house itself. Melnick notes that sophisticated buyers have learned to evaluate not just the property itself but what can be built on surrounding parcels. “Ten acres can be extraordinary or relatively meaningless,” he said. “Is neighboring land protected? Can somebody build in your view someday?”
The Appalachian Trail passes directly through Salisbury, and the town’s lakes, hiking, cycling, and ski access give it a year-round appeal that strengthens its position as both a second home and an increasingly common co-primary residence for buyers maintaining ties to New York City. The Metro-North connection at Wassaic, approximately two hours from Grand Central, supports the commuter household that splits the week between the city and Litchfield County.
Elyse Harney Real Estate is Litchfield County’s leading independent residential brokerage, founded by Elyse Harney and now led by her daughter, Elyse Harney Morris. The firm represents buyers and sellers across the full range of the county’s residential market, with particular depth in the luxury segment.
Media Contact:Heather HookKeyCrew [email protected]
Disclosure: Individuals or companies mentioned may have a commercial relationship with KeyCrew.
For 60 years, a little thrift store has collected gently used clothing, shoes and housewares.It uses the proceeds to support services provided by the local visiting nurse association.After the store’s most recent home on Route 202 in New Preston was sold, the Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Litchfield County moved the business to a new home, this time in Bantam.The store’s new location is at Our Lady of Grace, St. Louis de Montfort Parish, on Route 202.A recent gathering drew volunteers, shoppers and cur...
For 60 years, a little thrift store has collected gently used clothing, shoes and housewares.
It uses the proceeds to support services provided by the local visiting nurse association.
After the store’s most recent home on Route 202 in New Preston was sold, the Visiting Nurse and Hospice of Litchfield County moved the business to a new home, this time in Bantam.
The store’s new location is at Our Lady of Grace, St. Louis de Montfort Parish, on Route 202.
A recent gathering drew volunteers, shoppers and curious newcomers.
Among the volunteer group were longtime members Diane Locke and Iona Douskey.
“My son was 9 years old and he was in Cub Scouts, and he ripped a pair of pants at an activity,” Locke recalled.
“I went to the thrift store; it was above the pharmacy in Washington at the time, and I found a pair for him. The lady at the store said, ‘Would you be interested in volunteering?’ and I was. I’ve been volunteering for 50 years,” she said.
“When we moved from New Milford to Washington, I signed up, and that was 20 years ago,” Douskey said.
“It’s fun, volunteering,” she said. “You stay in the house too much, you start to get depressed; volunteering gets you out, you meet people and help, and all of sudden you feel better. I enjoy it.”
VNHLC, or the Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Litchfield County, includes Foothills VNA, VNA Northwest, Salisbury VNA and Farmington Valley VNA, which previously joined forces to serve the Northwest Corner and Farmington Valley.
Visiting Nurse & Hospice of Litchfield County, a non-profit agency, has been serving home health and hospice care needs in Litchfield County and the Farmington Valley for more than 100 years, according to the organization. It brings care 24 hours a day to the communities it covers, is licensed by the state Department of Public Health and certified by Medicare.
Before the agencies joined together, the thrift shop was overseen by VNA Northwest; before that, the smaller organization was known as the VNA of Washington and Warren.
The thrift store, founded around 1966, has operated around town: above a pharmacy, in a church, and in an office building in New Preston, part of Washington.
In the early 2000s, the store and its volunteers settled in the Sebec Trading Company building on Route 202, also in New Preston, where it operated for 15 years.
“We’re very appreciative to the members of Our Lady of Grace for welcoming us,” said Jean Chapin, store manager.
Chapin worked at the Gunn Memorial Library in Washington for many years. Now retired, she oversees the store and the 20-plus group of volunteers.
Chapin said the store has always been in Washington, until now.
“But we’ve had a very nice reception here in Bantam,” she said. “We hope our Washington donors will drive the extra distance and continue to bring us donations. “They’re the life blood of this organization, and we don’t want to lose them.”
The new store’s space is a square room with high ceilings, displays, and a small kitchen with a window, where customers can pay for their purchases.
Clothing racks are arranged around the room, along with shelving and display cases for glassware and kitchenware. There are clothing, books and toys for children; summery dresses and hats; handbags, sandals and shoes for all ages.
The volunteers check each donated item for quality, price it and put it out for sale. A boutique display features “like new” clothing and shoes.
Chapin noted, “Regular hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. We’re closed Sundays and Mondays.”
Volunteers are always welcome. Members of the group take turns running the store, sorting clothes and creating displays.
The new location’s address is 761 Bantam Road/Route 202, Bantam, behind Our Lady of Grace church. The entrance is in the rear of the building, with plenty of parking.
For information on the VNHLC thrift store, visit vnhlc.org, or call 860-379-8561.
860-261-4405
