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

phone-number860-261-4405 lm-right-arrow

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.
SUBMIT REQUEST

Home Care In South Kent, CT

Home Care South Kent, CT

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Kent Furnace gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in South Kent, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

In-Home Care South Kent, CT

care-serviceHome Care Services

location Service Areas

Read More
Elderly Care South Kent, CT Request More Information vector

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.

Hear from Our Clients
Elderly Care for Komm
551
Caring

“ABC provides a person to cook and do laundry for my mother. The people I”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Care for Kevin J.
551
Google

“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 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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Care Services for Melinda M.
551
Website

“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 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
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Elderly Care for Debra T.
551
Google

“Bessie has been an exceptional Health Care Provider. She takes such pride in her work”

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
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Care for Anita
551
Caring

“We used Always Best Care for my mother. They provided basically anything we needed a”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Care Services for Nancy S.
551
Google

“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 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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Non-medical Home Care for Nancy S.
551
Website

“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 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
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Personal Senior Care for The M.
551
Website

“To honor Bob's memory, enjoy a round of golf, share your music with others, make”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Care for Madison R.
551
Google

“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 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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Senior Care Services for Dan A.
551
Website

“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 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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Caregiver for Sue L.
551
Website

“Thank you for the excellent care given to my mom. It was a huge weight”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Personal Care Services for Renchy F.
551
Website

“The Renchy family of Guilford would like to thank the staff and caretakers at CT”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Senior Caregiver for Gregory C.
551
Google

“Dear Rick, Over the past three plus years, my father Joseph Ceuch has lived at”

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
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Care Services for Milissa K.
551
Google

“Heather, I just wanted to thank Always Best Care in helping to provide care for”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Caregiver for Lee M.
551
Website

“Rick/Heather, Thank you for providing excellent customer service !! I have received several emails and”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In Home Senior Care for Caitlin M.
551
Website

“I am a past client of this provider Dave and staff, thank you or consistently”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Care for A G.
551
Google

“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, 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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Senior Care for Pope A.
551
Google

“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Elderly Care for Susan W.
551
Google

“Our sister, Barbara has early-onset dementia , and was in sudden need of a personal”

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!
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
In-home Care for Dorothy W.
551
Google

“I am a past client of this provider My journey with Always Best Care began”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Non-medical Caregiver for Liam C.
551
Google

“My mother was bedbound for months and had serious health related issues including kidney failure.”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Care Services for Kevin N.
551
Google

“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, 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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Non-medical Home Care for Christie A.
551
Google

“I am a retired registered nurse, and for several years, I have been the primary”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Personal Senior Care for Dorothy29
551
Caring

“My journey with Always Best Care began with a visit from the owner and office”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Home Care for Caring5863
551
Caring

“Dave and staff, thank you or consistently caring and comforting my Mom. Your quality of”

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.
Read full testimonial
Hear from Our Clients
Senior Care Services for elizabeth S.
551
Caring

“I have a very good providers from this Company”

I have a very good providers from this Company
Read full testimonial
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Komm
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Kevin J.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Melinda M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Debra T.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Anita
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Nancy S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Nancy S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

The M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Madison R.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Dan A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Sue L.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Renchy F.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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”

Gregory C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Milissa K.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Lee M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Caitlin M.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

A G.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Pope A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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!”

Susan W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Dorothy W.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Liam C.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Kevin N.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Christie A.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Dorothy29
×
TESTIMONIALS

“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.”

Caring5863
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I have a very good providers from this Company”

elizabeth S.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in South Kent, CT?

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.

Request More Information
Senior Care South Kent, CT

Types of Elderly Care in South Kent, CT

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
Request More Information
Respite Care South Kent, CT
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
Request More Information
Caregivers South Kent, CT
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 Emery 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
Request More Information
Home Care South Kent, CT
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 Fife 'n Drum Restaurant & Inn or visit Kent station, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

Request More Information
In-Home Care South Kent, CT

Benefits of Home Care in South Kent, CT

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 South Kent, CT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

Elderly Care South Kent, CT

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 CT'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 South Kent, CT

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 South Kent, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

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 South Kent, CT

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 South Kent, CT

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:

  • Morning Star Retirement Home
  • Kent Nutrition Program
Home Care South Kent, CT

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 South Kent, CT

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 South Kent, CT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

Request More Information vector
Elderly Care South Kent, CT

Latest News in South Kent, CT

Titanic expert with CT ties on board missing submersible

One of the five people onboard a submersible that went missing on its way to the wreckage site of the Titanic has ties to Connecticut.Paul-Henri “PH” Nargeolet, an underwater researcher and highly regarded Titanic expert, lived in both South Kent and Greenwich, records show.The 77-year-old French deep sea explorer is one of five men on board the OceanGate Expeditions’ Titan, which lost signal shortly after subme...

One of the five people onboard a submersible that went missing on its way to the wreckage site of the Titanic has ties to Connecticut.

Paul-Henri “PH” Nargeolet, an underwater researcher and highly regarded Titanic expert, lived in both South Kent and Greenwich, records show.

The 77-year-old French deep sea explorer is one of five men on board the OceanGate Expeditions’ Titan, which lost signal shortly after submerging in the ocean bound for the wreckage of the Titanic. The vessel’s communication systems stopped about an hour and 45 minutes after the Titan submerged, The Associated Press reported.

Search area for lost Titanic-bound submersible deepens, doubles in size as oxygen dwindles

Rescuers have rushed more ships and vessels to the area where a submersible disappeared on its way to the Titanic wreckage site. They said Wednesday that they’re hoping underwater noises they’ve detected for two straight days might help narrow their search for the Titan. The vessel has five people onboard. Even those who expressed optimism warned that many obstacles remain. Search crews need to pinpoint the vessel’s location, reach it, and bring it to the surface. Some have estimated the vessel could run out of oxygen as soon as Thursday morning.

The full scope of the search was twice the size of Connecticut in waters 2 ½ miles deep, according to the First Coast Guard District.

Nargeolet, who now resides in Duchess County, New York, is the director of underwater research for RMS Titanic, Inc., which owns the salvage rights to the Titanic wreck and manages artifacts at many Titanic exhibitions, according to the company’s website.

The company tweeted a statement on Wednesday, lauding Nargeolet’s expertise on the Titanic wreck site.

“Paul-Henry (PH) Nargeolet is a precious member of the RMS Titanic, Inc. family whose passion for Titanic and diving led him to complete over 35 submersible dives, more than anyone, and his knowledge of the wreck site is unparalleled,” the company said in their statement. “We trust and have faith his experience will help navigate this critical situation.”

pic.twitter.com/nsyKy5jYdZ

— RMS Titanic, Inc. (@RMSTitanic_Inc) June 21, 2023

Also on board the vessel are pilot and OceanGate CEO Stockton Rush, billionaire Hamish Harding and father and son Shahzada and Suleman Dawood. A ride to the shipwreck costs approximately $250,000, multiple media outlets have reported.

According to property records and Sotheby’s International Realty, Nargeolet owned a 1700’s house called Pond Meadow Farm nestled on 28 acres in Litchfield County’s South Kent until 2022, when the home sold for nearly $2.5 million, according to Zillow.

Nargeolet was a member of the Kent Memorial Library board while living in South Kent. He joined the board in 2015, according to the library’s website.

The library board published a brief biography of Nargeolet, who served 25 years in the French Navy where he was a captain of the Deep Submergence Group of the Navy, the library said.

His career in deep-sea diving spanned decades and included work for the French Institute for the Exploitation of the Sea and several expeditions to the Titanic site, according to the Kent Memorial Library.

Nargeolet was also part of a team that discovered a “biodiverse abyssal ecosystem” near the Titanic wreck on a previously unknown basalt formation, according to OceanGate.

During an expedition in 2022, explorers discovered the “extremely productive and dense ecosystem” about 2,900 meters deep. The discovery was preliminarily named Nargeolet-Fanning Ridge in Nargeolet’s honor, OceanGate said.

In its statement on Twitter this week, RMS Titanic, Inc. president Jessica Sanders said, “We are devastated with the news, but remain steadfast in a hope for a safe rescue for all. PH is more than a colleague, he is a friend. No one has more experience at the wreck site than PH, and no one has a better chance of navigating through equipment failures than he does. We remain hopeful.”

Experts estimated that the submersible will likely run out of its oxygen supply by Thursday morning, according to multiple media reports.

On Wednesday, Canadian military aircraft detected underwater noises near the area that was being searched, but nothing had been found yet in connection with the noises, according to the First Coast Guard District for the United States Coast Guard Northeast.

Coast Guard officials were bringing in more ships and other vessels to search the area, though the exact location of the sounds had not yet been narrowed down, the AP reported. The Coast Guard said that three vessels arrived on-scene Wednesday morning, including the John Cabot, which has side-scanning sonar capabilities, the Skandi Vinland and the Atlantic Merlin.

5 Mind-Blowing ‘Adult-Only’ Events Coming to Connecticut

Instead of staying home AGAIN binge-watching one show after another, why not get your ass off the couch and take advantage of some of Connecticut's unique and sometimes challenging adult-only events!Get our free mobile appWhether you're a Gen X-er with kids or a Gen Z-er looking for a new adventure, I've found five exhilarating, unique 'adults-only' activities that could be more fun than watching...

Instead of staying home AGAIN binge-watching one show after another, why not get your ass off the couch and take advantage of some of Connecticut's unique and sometimes challenging adult-only events!

Get our free mobile app

Whether you're a Gen X-er with kids or a Gen Z-er looking for a new adventure, I've found five exhilarating, unique 'adults-only' activities that could be more fun than watching 'Ted Lasso' for the fifth time.

Check Out These Extremely Fun Upcoming 'Adult Only' Events in Connecticut....

Club Getaway - 59 South Kent Road, Kent, CT

If you're a fan of the 'Ethan, Lou, and Large Dave Morning Show,' you've probably heard Lou rave about Club Getaway! If not, this is a camp for adults only! This is where you leave life behind and arrive at a place where the only schedule you follow is one where adventure is planned after breakfast, and evening parties are definitely on the agenda.

Club Getaways' Mega-Water Toys!

At Club Getaway, you make the choice. Take part in every scheduled activity, or choose depending on what appeals to you. If you need some quiet time, relax in your air-conditioned cabin. Your time at camp will be the kind of adventure you want it to be! I recommend you make your Club Getaway weekend reservation ASAP!

Cinco De Mayo Connecticut Bar Crawl - Friday, May 5th in Downtown Hartford

There is nothing like a good old-fashioned bar crawl, but be careful! I attempted one of these bad boys years ago in Boston, and mid-way through, forgot where I was and had to be escorted back to my hotel. It was not pretty! Registration is from 4:30 pm until 6 pm. There'll be tons of giveaways, beer specials, and your very own tour host. Click here to purchase your tickets.

New Haven's 6th Annual Halloween Bar Crawl - Saturday, October 28...

New Haven's Halloween Bar Crawl is one of the mack-daddy bar crawls in the state! This insane event includes a $1,000 grand prize costume contest, food specials, an awesome after-party, and exclusive drink specials. Get your tickets now by clicking on crawlwith.us.

Facebook

Backyard Adventure UTV Guided Tours - 30 Allyndale Road, Canaan, CT

Forty-four years of living in Connecticut, I've never heard of this incredible experience called 'Backyard Adventure.' In the beautiful northwest hills of Canaan, Connecticut, an adventure awaits where you can drive your personal utility terrain vehicle(UTV) through hundreds of acres of trails.

Facebook

Backyard Adventures Booking Info...

You'll drive your state-of-the-art Can-Am UTV as you follow your experienced guide on a fantastic action-packed voyage! To check pricing and book your UTV tour, click on backyardadventuretours.com.

Facebook

The Connecticut Beer Trail

Love craft beer? Connecticut has 109 breweries, taprooms, and brewpubs, and there are five CT Beer Trails to explore; Greater Hartford River Valley, Litchfield Hills, Fairfield County, Greater New Haven, and Mystic Country. Click here to check out the CT Beer Trail Map.

Facebook

The Connecticut Beer Fest - Saturday, April 22nd, XL Center, Hartford

If you'd like to test drive the kinds of beer at the Connecticut Beer XL Center in Hartford from 2 pm until 6 pm. You'll be treated to beers from dozens of Connecticut's best craft breweries. Grab your tickets now at connecticut.beer.

Facebook

Dance the Night Away at 'BAR' in New Haven - 254 Crown Street

"You Make Me Feel Like Dancin" Eat, drink, and dance at Bar Night Club in New Haven on Friday and Saturday nights. Hit up Bar for some great pizza and then stay when Bar turns into a dance club from 9:30 pm until close.

Facebook

Bar Dance Club

On Friday nights, Bar Night Club features a live DJ from 10 pm until 1:30 am playing an eclectic mix of Top 40, house, and techno with a cover charge beginning at 9:30 pm. On Saturday evening, your DJ mixes pop dance, techno, Latin club hits, and reggae.

Food Truck Festivals Will Take Over Connecticut This Summer

We've finally figured out that the easiest way to attract a walk-up crowd to your event is hire a few food trucks. The Food Truck Festival circuit is hot for the Summer of 2023 Connecticut, here is a month-by-month breakdown of upcoming events.

Large "Miss You Chief Brody" Dave

April 2023

Your first chance to stuff your faces at a food truck event happens from 11-7 on April 22, and 11-5 on April 23, at the Meriden Food Truck Festival, which will take place in the parking lot of the Meriden Mall.

Getty Images

May 2023

May 2023 is the busiest month of the year so far for events:

The New Britain Food Truck Festival is taking place at New Britain Bees Stadium on May 6 from 11-7, and 11-6 on May,7.

Enfield hosts the Enfield Food Truck Festival at Enfield Square Mall on May 13-14. The very next weekend sees the return of the Connecticut Food Truck Battles to the Naugatuck Events Center in Naugy. And two events are happening during the 2023 Memorial Day weekend, the Milford Food Truck Festival will take place at the Connecticut Post Mall parking lot in Milford, and the Farmington Food Truck Festival will take place in what looks like a business complex parking lot at 20 Waterside Drive off of Rt. 6 in Farmington.

Getty Images

June 2023

During the month of June you can check out the North Haven Fair Food Festival at the North Haven Fairgrounds June 3-4. The Manchester Food Truck Festival is slated for the Buckland Hills Mall parking lot June 24-25.

Getty Images

July 2023

The Brass City will host the Waterbury Food Truck Festival in the Brass Mill Center parking lot on July 2, and I'd expect Waterbury to launch their 4th of July fireworks from nearby Holy Land USA that evening too.

Getty Images

August 2023

Glastonbury will host the Glastonbury Food Truck Festival at the Glastonbury Elks Lodge August 5-6.

The Wonders of Sleeping Giant State Park

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

The 'Sleeping Giant'

According to connecticuthistory.org, the 'Sleeping Giant' acquired its name thanks to Native Americans of the Quinnipiac Tribe, told of the story of the evil spirit Hobbomock, who, "angry at the neglect of his people, stamped a foot (at what is now Middletown) and changed the course of the Connecticut River to the east," As the story goes, a good spirit named Kietan casts a spell to put the giant to sleep ergo 'Sleeping Giant.'

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

Rugged Traprock Mountain

During the late Triassic and early Jurassic periods, approximately 200 million years ago, Connecticut was located in the middle of a humungous continent called Pangaea, according to geocaching.com. The continental plates spread apart, causing lava flows and volcanic eruptions.

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

The Blue and Violet Trails...

All Trails rate Sleeping Giant State Park as the top CT state park for hiking. The Blue and Violet Trails are known to be the most challenging of the 12 trails and are recommended for only experienced hikers.

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

Sleeping Giant Tower...

The Tower Trial affords the very best view from atop Sleeping Giant. The trail ends at a massive stone castle-like tower that perfectly provides the 360-degree view vantage point. BTW, dogs are welcome on the Tower Trail.

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

Climbing to the Top...

The square four-story tower at the top of the Tower Trail was built in the Romanesque style between 1936 and 1939 by 60 workers through the Works Progress Administration as a Depression-era relief and recovery project.

YouTube

attachment-screen-shot-2023-04-07-at-4

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

Yes, Dinosaurs Roamed What is Now Connecticut...

There is definitive geological evidence that dinosaurs roamed Connecticut during the late Triassic and early Jurassic periods between 201 and 237 million years ago. Dinosaur bones were discovered in Connecticut in 1818 which included the aetosaur Stegomus, the phytosaur Clepsysaurus, and the prosauropod dinosaur Anchisaurus.

Facebook

Portals to a Centuries-Old-Garden?

These two multi-arched structures, The Arches, are weathered and backed by a dilapidated stone wall that scales the hillside where buildings and cottages once existed. In the late 1800s, this area inside Sleeping Giant became a quarry. It lasted until 1924 when the townspeople, tired of seeing their mountain desecrated, formed an organization to stop all mining.

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

Views Along the Trails Are Mind-Blowing!

According to connecticuthistory.org, European settlers set aside the area, which they initially called Blue Hills, as a permanent commons in 1721. It opened as a park in 1888 and shortly afterward was named “Sleeping Giant.”

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

The Sleeping Giant Tower Trail...

The Tower Trail is the most popular trail at Sleeping Giant State Park because it's wide and meanders up the side of Mount Carmel ending at a 4-story stone observation tower where the views are breathtaking!

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

The Sleeping Giant's Profile...

According wikipedia.org, the Sleeping Giant's profile features distinct "head," "chin," "chest," "hip," "knee," and "feet" sections represented by traprock outcrops and ridge crests. The highest point is the Left Hip at 739 feet, followed by the Chest, 710 feet, and the Left Knee and Right Leg, 700 each. The Giant's Head, is marked by a 400 foot cliff. An old rock quarry, closed since 1933 and now part of the state park, has left scars on the Giant's Head.

Outdoor Musings YouTube Video

Sleeping Giant State Park - 200 Mount Carmel Avenue, Hamden, CT

Bull’s Bridge Golf Club renovation underway in South Kent

A renovation project at Bull’s Bridge Golf Club in South Kent is officially underway, according to a media release.The firm Fazio Design and golf course superintendent Stephen Hicks are overseeing the first major renovation of the course since it opened in 2004. Renovation ef...

A renovation project at Bull’s Bridge Golf Club in South Kent is officially underway, according to a media release.

The firm Fazio Design and golf course superintendent Stephen Hicks are overseeing the first major renovation of the course since it opened in 2004. Renovation efforts at the private club will include the expansion of several fairways, addition of new tees and repositioning of bunkers.

With McDonald and Sons as the construction contractor, the team will add bunkers to the first, third, sixth, ninth, 10th, 13th, 17th and 18th holes, and will reposition bunkers as well, the release stated. They will also add back tees to the second, ninth and 18th holes and forward tees to the third, sixth, 10th and 17th holes. As a result, the new distance will from the course to the back tees will be about 7,200 yards.

The golf club also received approval from the New Milford Zoning Commission in June to pursue a $4.5 million construction project to offer new amenities to its members.

Erika Furno of Furno Architects, which has offices in Greenwich and Westbrook, has redesigned the existing clubhouse and a new “Gold House” in another building. The club will add a new dining room to the clubhouse and expand the kitchen, and the “Golf House” will feature new locker rooms and a golf shop. The project will also install a new septic system and renovate the club’s parking area.

“This is an exciting time at Bull’s Bridge, with these significant upgrades being made to enhance overall member enjoyment of our facilities,” general manager Brian Freeswick said in the media release.

Course officials expect to complete the project this November.

Designed by Tom Fazio, the 18-hole golf course was ranked No. 5 on Golfweek’s 2023 list of best private clubs in Connecticut and was featured on Golfweek’s list of best all modern courses in the U.S. since 1960.

Prep Profiles 2022-23 Season: South Kent School

It is that time of year again, when we start to preview the top prep programs in New England.This year, we are going to begin with the local teams who will take part in the National Prep Showcase, held November 18th-20th at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, Connecticut.South Kent School heads into the 2022-23 season with expectations to make serious noise in NEPSAC AAA.3 Things You Need to Know About This Year’s TeamThey brought in ...

It is that time of year again, when we start to preview the top prep programs in New England.

This year, we are going to begin with the local teams who will take part in the National Prep Showcase, held November 18th-20th at Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, Connecticut.

South Kent School heads into the 2022-23 season with expectations to make serious noise in NEPSAC AAA.

3 Things You Need to Know About This Year’s Team

They brought in Elmarko Jackson and a pair of other impact class of 2023 transfers

Recent Kansas commit Elmarko Jackson was one of the most important offseason additions for any program in New England. He has proven to be one of the nation’s top guards with his blend of impressive athleticism, playmaking, defensive tenacity, and three-point shooting improvement. Seattle native Isaiah Watts is another guard who will provide scoring punch. He can make treys on spot-up/pull-up attempts, mid-range shots off the dribble, while also having handles/vision to provide impact playing on the ball. Another floor spacer brought in from North Carolina was Trey Boyd. The wing has clean mechanics with deep range, having the ability to hit three-pointers off the catch/move/dribble.

There is more talent on the way

While there the senior class has a number of terrific players, Coach Chillious has various underclassmen in the fold who are waiting in the wings. The 2025 guard combo of Jaryn Aguiar and Isaiah Young pair with 6’10 freshman who is a native of Nigeria. Young’s brother Nehemiah as well as Bryce Bennett also have bright futures in the class of 2026.

They are not backing down from anyone

South Kent is playing a schedule that is as difficult as anyone’s in New England. As already stated, they will be competing in next month’s National Prep Showcase. On top of that, appearances in the Zero Gravity Prep Classic, BasketBull Hoopfest, Jumpman Holiday Classic, and HoopHall Prep Showcase. This all on top of their regular league games in the NEBL and NEPSAC AAA. This gauntlet of a schedule gives them an opportunity to increase their resume for the National Prep Championship in March.

3 Questions Heading into the Season

How far can Elmarko Jackson lead this group?

With now being the top ranked New England player in the 247 rankings, Jackson certainly has a target on his back. With their very difficult schedule, they will face a number of ups and downs. How he helps them navigate through those times will be vital in how successful they are. While he is the clear lead dog on this squad, as we have gone through, there is a lot of other talent on the squad. Him and Michigan commit Papa Kante are also one of the best duos that New England has to offer.

Who will emerge in the junior class?

We talked about some freshman/sophomores in an earlier point. It will likely take most of them time before truly contributing on the top team. With this mind, some juniors will need to step up so a burden can be taken off the seniors. The two highlight names who are transferring in are Jason Schofield and Jacob Hogarth. Schofield is a forward who can stretch the floor from deep, initiate fast breaks, and create second chance opportunities on the glass. Hogarth is a strong bodied big man with finishing touch and defensive rebounding ability. JoJo Wallace and Oliver Jones also return and will have opportunities to compete for a spot on the top team this year.

How quick will it take for them to gel?

While it is clear they have a substantial amount of talent, a lot of the players have never played an official game together. The only returner who played meaningful minutes last year is Papa Kante. How quickly the team comes together with each other's individual play styles is an important element. It will be something to watch early in the season with them getting thrown right into the fire with their schedule.

Historic covered bridge a feature of pleasant Bull's Bridge hike in Kent

Special to Poughkeepsie JournalWhat: Bull's Bridge and Anderson Memorial BridgeWhere: 248 Bull's Bridge Road, South Kent, ConnecticutPoints of interest: Covered bridge, walk along the HousatonicIntensity: MildMiles: 2.5With summer about to hit, a cool hike along a river under the cover of trees overhead may be a perfect way to spend a weekend day.And while Bull's Bridge may be a little out of th...

Special to Poughkeepsie Journal

What: Bull's Bridge and Anderson Memorial Bridge

Where: 248 Bull's Bridge Road, South Kent, Connecticut

Points of interest: Covered bridge, walk along the Housatonic

Intensity: Mild

Miles: 2.5

With summer about to hit, a cool hike along a river under the cover of trees overhead may be a perfect way to spend a weekend day.

And while Bull's Bridge may be a little out of the way for some in Ulster County or northern Dutchess County, the relaxing setting is a nice reward.

TRAIL MARKER: Red Hill Fire Tower Trail a perfect hike without being intimidating

MOUNTAIN HIKES: Climb four mountains in one Orange County hike

HOUSATONIC RIVER VALLEY: Exploring Hudson River Valley’s extended borders

After you’ve parked in the parking lot on the east side of the bridge, head downhill and cross the bridge. (Note: the best views are on the upstream side of the bridge on the right) But be careful, it can get crowded and there’s not a lot of extra elbow-room in there. So take time to appreciate the bridge, but don’t linger too long.

Once you’ve crossed the bridge, you’ll come across a path to your right that leads down to the water at the base of the bridge. This spot offers a nice view of the bridge and Bull's Bridge Dam in the distance.

Once you’ve had your fill of the bridge, head back up the path and turn right along the road. There are no trail markers here, but the "No Parking" signs make a nice substitute. In another minute or two you’ll come across a trail on the left that winds its way down to a small viewing platform overlooking the river. Once you’re done with the platform, head back up the trail and turn left to continue on your way.

After crossing the bridge you’ll come across a green gate on your left and a few paces behind that, the kiosk for the Ten Mile River Section of trail. Take a minute to orient yourself and then start following the blue blazes down the trail.

In about 10 minutes, you’ll come to an intersection with the white-blazed Appalachian trail coming in from your right. From here you have about eight-tenths of a mile on the white trail to the Anderson Memorial Bridge; just keep following the white blazes till you get there.

Once you have arrived take a minute to enjoy the view from the bridge — the river underneath your feet is the Ten Mile River, the one you’re looking at, the Housatonic. If you need to take a break, the field on the other side of the bridge is a perfect spot as well.

Once you’ve taken your fill of the scenery, retrace your steps back to the parking lot. It took me just less than an hour from the bridge to make it back to my car.

Tom Ricci writes The Trail Marker, detailing area hiking adventures, for the Journal. Contact him at [email protected]

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.