It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always.
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Washington Monument State Park 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 Middletown, NJ 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.
“As we wind down our trip to New Jersey both Megan and I wish to”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding!”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind,”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college,”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides.”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They”
“You have been outstanding in caregiving and concern for us both. We cannot thank you”
“Gimbert and Carmen Fernandez are very knowledgeable in the area of elder care services and”
“My wife and I are eternally grateful to Always Best Care for the wonderful care”
“Your service was just what I needed. I would not hesitate to use your services”
“As we wind down our trip to New Jersey both Megan and I wish to thank you personally and Always Best Care for taking care of our needs! Your professionalism and support made our experience pleasant. After having experienced three different service providers in Maryland I can say your services are above par! And Ernesta is truly supportive of Megan’s needs. She is calm, compassionate and respectful. Also your on call service is very quick to react to our changing needs!”
“A special shoutout to our primary caregivers: Marie C. and Florette P.. They were outstanding! And extra thanks to Carli, who always came through when we needed backup. Many thanks to the ABC team for all the care you gave to my husband Al H. through 3 years of Parkinson's suffering, and the support you gave me through a hard time.”
“Terrific company. Management is tops. Very caring staff. I highly recommend them.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services in Princeton Junction exceeded our expectations. Their team was kind, attentive, and provided excellent care tailored to our family’s needs. Communication was clear and supportive throughout. We’re so grateful for their compassion and professionalism. Highly recommend them for anyone seeking trusted senior home care in the area!”
“Could not have asked for a more caring group of professionals. From care giver to support staff, they are exceptional”
“ABC COULD NOT HAVE DONE BETTER IN A CHANGING SITUATION WITH TWO TERMINALLY PATIENTS HAVING ALZ AND STAGE IV PANCREATIC CANCER. QUALITY OF CARE TAKER WAS SUPERB AND RESPONSIVENESS TO CHANGING NEEDS PERFECT.”
“Always best care took care of my father for about 10 years..Though my father was very lucid and managed his own care with the agency, I was at his house alot and participated in his care with the aids. They were all very caring and he kindly spoke of the owners being very attentive and offered very personalized care. They even visited him. I am very fond of many of the home health aids..they were loving and concerned. They took their job to another level. I even formed friendships with some of them. The golden years are a very delicate part of our lives. Always best care not only offered good physical care to my father, but unbounded love and compassion !!!! Thank you and he is looking down at us. I'm sure.”
“ABC and their amazing care givers enabled our Aunt to get her last wish was to die in her home. I can’t say enough about how ABC was able to give her a quality of life that she valued as well as provide comfort to her family knowing that she was in good hands with ABC's Caregivers. From the caregivers that always went the extra mile to the fast response we got 24x7 from folks like Carli…you were there for us!”
“Mom developed an infection in the afternoon that left her too weak and disoriented to care for herself for that night. I called Always Best Care Senior Services (ABC) at the very end of the business day, asking if they could find someone for one night of 12-hour private duty care on pretty much an emergency basis. The ABC team went to work and secured a caregiver for mom within a matter of hours for an 8pm-to-8am care shift at mom's senior living community. We had worked with ABC in the past on a scheduled basis, but this experience was above and beyond the call of regular duty and it truly helped us get through a difficult and stressful episode. We would recommend ABC for any and all of your senior care needs.”
“Faithful, Love, and Family.”
“Very professional organization and sent the right aide, Sam, to help me with my father in day to day activities. Sam helps him with gait training and understands dementia care and how to handle care, the way the client needs it. I would not hesitate using this agency and Sam is excellent.”
“I had a great experience with the agency, Always Best Care! I am attending college, and they always provided me an aide that is helpful, considerate, and hardworking. Thank you for always providing me with an aide like Ms. Colleta!!”
“Roberto took care of my husband like he was a member of his family. He was God sent; thank God for him”
“The aide's were respectful, reliable and friendly and staff responds timely to calls and needs”
“Everyone was great. I’ve come a long way due to the help of your aides. Thank you again!”
“You have a GEM in Mrs. Terry. She is worth so much more than she is paid! I miss her. Her help was timely, professional, and invaluable”
“Very very helpful, I was desperate when I called and that same day I had professional help. Tremendous your service”
“We had an exceptionally good experience with Always Best Care during my mother's illness. The management met with us and assigned caregivers almost immediately. As our needs evolved and increased, they were responsive and flexible. The caregivers were well-trained, kind, hard-working, and truly fine people whom we enjoyed having in the house.”
“Thank you Jahima, Esther, Satta, Myra, Kelly & Susan. Carmen should be pleased. Keep up the good work, and be safe!”
“Words cannot express how grateful my family and I am for the kindness, care, and concern that was shown for my husband by the Always Best Care staff. Thank you for the exceptional attention to his comfort, as well as the wonderful insights, strength, knowledge, and emotional support you showed our entire family. Watching someone you love make the transition out of this life is a really difficult thing, and your wisdom and comfort helped us navigate this challenging time. I will always be thankful for the service you provided for him. I would also like to acknowledge the excellent care provided to my husband by Ms. Marie Louisjean. We thank Ms. Louisjean for her incredible patience, tenderness, and attention to his needs. We thank her for being such a dedicated caregiver. God has given her a very special talent and He has blessed her with a compassionate heart. I could not have asked for a more passionate group of people. May God continue to bless the Always Best Care staff as you continue to care for people in need.”
“Gimbert & Carmen were very accommodating and knowledgeable with the needs of my father. They came out to his house and offered suggestions so that he would be able to get around with his walker easily. Their person took great care of my Dad. It is such a relief to my sister and I that we had someone stay with my Dad that was so reliable. I highly recommend them.”
“You have been outstanding in caregiving and concern for us both. We cannot thank you enough. Thanks for always being there for us in every way.”
“Gimbert and Carmen Fernandez are very knowledgeable in the area of elder care services and how best to provide workable care solutions for aging relatives. They are well informed on current issues and available options. I speak from my own experience here and strongly recommend then and their company to anyone in need of assistance in this area. They are compassionate and caring people which is critical in their business!”
“My wife and I are eternally grateful to Always Best Care for the wonderful care they provided for our Aunt and Uncle as they battled with diminishing health and mental conditions. Carmen and Gimbert were always available to us to answer questions and discuss aspects of care that was needed. Without their help the situations that we faced would have been so much worse. God Bless.”
“Your service was just what I needed. I would not hesitate to use your services in the future if needed. I would recommend you to anyone needing your help. Again, thank you for caring.”
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 Deep Cut Gardens 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 Esca Restaurant Wine Bar or visit TaylorButler House, 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 Middletown, NJ, 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 Middletown, NJ 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 Middletown, NJ 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.
The Middletown Township Public Library announced its lineup of adult events for July. All are free:MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL) announced its lineup of adult events for July. Additional information and registration can be found at mtpl.org. Please contact the reference desk with any questions at 732...
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — The Middletown Township Public Library (MTPL) announced its lineup of adult events for July. Additional information and registration can be found at mtpl.org. Please contact the reference desk with any questions at 732-671-3700, Ext 320.
Tech Tuesday: Design with Canva Basics
Learn how to use Canva to easily create your own graphic designs at this Tech Tuesday session on July 8 at 2:30 pm. Bring your computer questions for a brief "ask a librarian" session afterwards. This program will take place in the Open Study Room. Registration is recommended.
Bad Art for Adults
Come to the Community Room on Monday, July 14 at 7 pm for a chance to be wildly creative without any pressure to make something “good.” At the end of the program, the group will vote for the baddest “Bad Art" masterpiece. Materials will be provided.
Getting Started in Genealogy
Join this Genealogy 101 workshop on Wednesday, July 16 at 2 pm to get started on researching your family tree with Beverly Yackel of the Monmouth County Genealogy Society. Drop by the Community Room to hear tips and insight on how to begin your genealogy journey and learn about the new Genealogy Club forming at the Library.
Welcome to Journaling: “Food for Thought”
Join a guided journaling session with Marilyn Lane, an experienced journalist and educator, on Friday, July 18 at 10:30 am in the Open Study Room. Jump start your journal writing with a fun discussion of curious quotes, adages, or thought-provoking questions. Please bring a notebook or laptop for writing. Registration is required.
Broadway Magic: Then & Now
Step into a world of exuberance and nostalgia and join a vibrant celebration of live Broadway music on Wednesday, July 23 at 1 pm in the Community Room. Francine and Joel will take you on an unforgettable journey through over 23 beloved Broadway gems, each note resonating with the joy and excitement of the stage. Registration is recommended.
Adult Coloring
Come to the Lobby Conference Room for a coloring session on Thursday, July 24 at 10 am. Join a relaxing morning of coloring pictures and socializing. Coloring pages, pencils, crayons and other supplies will be provided. You may bring your own coloring books or materials if you wish. Registration is recommended.
Art Workshop with Seema Varma
Learn various techniques, then use your own canvas to paint your own creation at this art workshop on Monday, July 28 at 6:30 pm. All materials will be provided. Plan to wear clothes that can get messy or bring an apron. This program will take place in the Community Room and registration is recommended.
Summer Reading Book Chat for Night Owls
Join a special “Color Our World” book chat on Shelby Van Pelt’s Remarkably Bright Creatures on Tuesday, July 29 at 7 pm in the Community Room. Print and audiobook copies of the book are available at the library, and digital copies are available on Hoopla and Libby.
Adult Zining Workshop
Embrace your creativity at MTPL’s Zining group for adults with resident archivist Laura Poll on Wednesday, July 30 at 1 pm in the Community Room. No artistic skills are needed and all supplies will be provided. Registration is recommended.
Summer Reading Book Chat for Early Birds
Join a special “Color Our World” book chat on Shelby Van Pelt’s Remarkably Bright Creatures on Thursday, July 31 at 10 am in the Community Room. Print and audiobook copies of the book are available at the library, and digital copies are available on Hoopla and Libby.
Virtual Author Talk: On the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains with Pria Anand
Sign up for an online conversation with author and neurologist Pria Anand on Thursday, July 31 at 2 pm. She will discuss her new book The Mind Electric: A Neurologist on the Strangeness and Wonder of Our Brains, revealing through case study, history, fable and memoir the stories we tell ourselves about our brains and the stories that our brains tell us. Visit mtpl.org to register for this virtual author event.
Star Wars Trivia Night
Grab your fellow Star Wars fans and join us on Thursday, July 31 at 7 pm for a night of trivia from a galaxy far, far away! This program will take place in the Community Room and registration is required.
From the Monmouth County Fair to quiet nature walks and historical tours, here's everything that's planned:MIDDLETOWN, NJ — July is Parks & Recreation month in New Jersey and a great time to head out to your county parks. The Monmouth County Park System fills the month with family-fun offerings.What's planned:Tidal Tuesday - Seining at Fisherman's CoveTuesdays, July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area, ManasquanSeine for a va...
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — July is Parks & Recreation month in New Jersey and a great time to head out to your county parks. The Monmouth County Park System fills the month with family-fun offerings.
What's planned:
Tidal Tuesday - Seining at Fisherman's Cove
Tuesdays, July 1, 8, 15, 22 & 29 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area, Manasquan
Seine for a variety of fish, crabs and other sea creatures along the cove during this program, led by a Park System naturalist. Closed-toe shoes are required. Parents or guardians are required to stay with and supervise their children. No swimming during the event. Weather permitting. FREE!
Seining Along Sandy Hook Bay
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, July 2-30 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth – Meet on the beach near the parking lot.
Discover a variety of fish, crabs and other sea creatures as we pull a long seine net along the edge of Sandy Hook Bay. Closed-toe shoes are required. Parents or guardians are required to stay with and supervise their children. No swimming during the event. This program is designed for individuals and families. Weather permitting. FREE!
Boat Tours of the Manasquan Reservoir
Wednesdays, July 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30 at 2 p.m., 3 p.m. & 4 p.m.
Friday-Sunday, July 4-6 at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. & 5 p.m.
Friday, July 11 at 6 p.m. & 7 p.m.
Saturdays & Sundays, July 12 & 13, 19 & 20, and 26 & 27 at 2 p.m., 3 p.m., 4 p.m. & 5 p.m.
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell – Tours leave from the Visitor Center.
These 45-minute tours are narrated by Park System naturalists and include opportunities to view local wildlife. The cost is $6 per adult and $4 per child, age 12 and under. Children must be at least one year or older to attend and be able to sit independently during the duration of the tour. Please call to confirm schedule as tours are both weather and water level dependent. Lifejackets required. Tickets can be purchased on day of tour only.
Life in a Freshwater Pond
Thursdays, July 3, 10, 17, 24 & 31 from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.
Freneau Woods Park, Aberdeen - Meet outside the Visitor Center.
Explore a freshwater pond with Park System naturalists. We’ll look for basking turtles, hopping frogs, hunting herons, splashing fish and anything else that catches our eye. We will also discover the unique life that lies underneath the water in a freshwater pond. Wear closed-toe shoes. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. Weather permitting. FREE!
Independence Day Celebration
Friday, July 4 from 12-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Join the staff as they celebrate the holiday with games and contests. FREE!
Cookstove Demonstration
Saturday, July 5 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See what's cooking on the woodstove and discover how recipes, cooking techniques and kitchens have changed since the 1890s. FREE!
Thompson Park Canoe Rentals
Saturdays & Sundays, July 5 & 6 and 19 & 20 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Thompson Park, Lincroft
Canoes will be available for rent on Marlu Lake. All equipment provided; limited number of canoes available. Open to all ages; under 18 with adult. All rentals must be returned by 3 p.m. The cost is $15 per boat for 1-3 people for two hours; cash or check only.
Milling Demonstrations
Saturdays & Sundays, July 5 & 6, 12 & 13, 19 & 20 and 26 & 27 at 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
See the 19th century gristmill grind corn into meal. Each demonstration lasts approximately 15 minutes. FREE!
Victorian Laundry Demonstration
Sunday, July 6 from 1-2:30 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
From lighting the wood stove to ironing the aprons, experience a late-Victorian laundry day during this demonstration. FREE!
Basket Weaving Demonstration
Saturday, July 12 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Visit the Penn/Jersey Basket Weaving Guild as they weave baskets. FREE!
Open Shoot Archery
Saturday, July 12 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Thompson Park Activity Barn, Lincroft
All equipment is provided for this open shoot. No outside equipment permitted. This is not an instructional clinic and NOT designed for beginners. If you are new to archery, register for one of our instructional classes prior to attending. Open to ages 10 and up; under 18 with adult. The cost is $10 per person; cash or check only.
19th Century Woodworking Demonstration
Saturday, July 12 from 12-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
See how a woodworker studies his materials, plies his tools and crafts beautiful and functional items. FREE!
Rigging 101
Saturday, July 12 from 1-3 p.m.
Tuesday, July 15 from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Manasquan Reservoir, Howell - Meet at the West Dock/Ramp
If you are an experienced sailor but do not have a sailing certification or would like to refresh your skills, attend this session and learn how to rig our 15’ American sailboats. Sailors showing proficiency will have an opportunity to obtain a Monmouth County Park System sailing card, which will allow them to rent these boats during our drop-in sailboat rental times. FREE!
Music on the Porch
Sunday, July 13 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Walnford, Upper Freehold
Let the toe tapping tunes of an acoustic duo enliven your visit. FREE!
Moths of the Night
Friday, July 18 from 9-10:30 p.m.
Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth
Learn about some of the 1,500+ species of moths that have been documented in New Jersey and see which ones we can attract. FREE!
Concert in the Park: Country Night with Austin City Nights
Friday, July 18 from 7-8:30 p.m.
Thompson Park Theater Barn, Lincroft - Concert is outdoors but will move inside if weather is inclement.
Led by vocal dynamo Lee Cancela and his talented sidekick Kat Maranino, Austin City Nights isn’t your typical country cover band! Putting their own takes on songs, this band goes modern country with a classic rock twist. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, food, and soft drinks. FREE!
Accordion Melodies of the 1890s
Saturday, July 19 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Hear melodies of the 1890s played on the accordion during your visit. FREE!
Bluegrass and Old-Time Music
Sunday, July 20 from 1-3 p.m.
Thompson Park Theater Barn, Lincroft – Meets outside.
Join the Bluegrass and Old-Time Music Association in a jam session. Bring your own bass, banjo, fiddle, mandolin or guitar to join in, or just stop by and enjoy an afternoon of music. FREE!
Open Mic Poetry - Comedy & Tragedy
Sunday, July 20 from 3-4:30 p.m.
Thompson Park Theater Barn, Lincroft
Explore or recite literary works during a time of alliteration, rhythm and verse. All are welcome to read your work aloud or read work from your favorite poet(s). Must be appropriate for a family-oriented audience. Pre-registration is recommended for readers and available by calling 732-542-1642, ext. 4648. FREE!
Wednesday-Friday, July 23-25 from 4-11 p.m.
Saturday, July 26 from 11 a.m.-11 p.m.
Sunday, July 27 from 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
East Freehold Showgrounds, Freehold
Celebrating its 50th anniversary, this annual tradition includes 4-H shows and exhibits, amusement rides, entertainment, home and garden competitions, opening night fireworks (weather permitting), and more. Admission is $10 per person; children 12 and under are free. Veterans and active military with ID also enter for free. On Sunday, seniors 65 and older and students with ID are free. Half price admission will be offered the first two hours each day (4-6 p.m. Wednesday-Friday and 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday & Sunday.)
Piano Ballads from the Turn-of-the-Century
Saturday, July 26 from 1-3 p.m.
Historic Longstreet Farm, Holmdel
Hear popular turn-of-the-19th-century ballads played in the farmhouse. FREE!
Nature Lecture: Woodpeckers of Monmouth County
Sunday, July 27 from 3-4 p.m.
Freneau Woods Park Visitor Center, Aberdeen
Learn about the woodpeckers that call Monmouth County home during this talk by a Park System Naturalist. FREE!
Casual Birder
Tuesday, July 29 at 9 a.m.
Freneau Woods Park, Aberdeen - Meet in the Visitor Center parking lot.
Join a Park System Naturalist for a laid-back morning bird walk and meander for about an hour and a half to see what birds we can find. Participants should expect to be walking a few miles (2-4) on sometimes uneven or muddy terrain. No need to be an expert at identifying birds to enjoy. A limited number of binoculars will be available to borrow if needed. FREE!
Also: The Park System has a number of sites listed on the National Registers of Historic Places that open for free tours during the warmer months including:
Historic Battery Lewis
Saturdays & Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; tours offered through October 13.
Hartshorne Woods Park - Use Rocky Point entrance in Highlands.
Historic Holmes-Hendrickson House
Friday-Sunday from 12-3 p.m. starting every half hour; tours offered through October 5.
Holmdel Park, Holmdel
Wednesday-Sunday at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m.; tours offered through November 16.
Hartshorne Woods Park, Locust section of Middletown
Historic Racing Stable
Fridays from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Saturdays & Sundays from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; tours offered through October 19.
Thompson Park, Lincroft
Historic Seabrook-Wilson House (the Spy House/Middletown Is Home To One Of NJ's Spookiest Haunted Houses)
Mondays, Thursdays & Sundays from 1-4 p.m.; tours offered through October 30.
Bayshore Waterfront Park, Port Monmouth
Please note that these historic sites may close due inclement weather and on county holidays.
To learn more about these Park System activities, please visit www.MonmouthCountyParks.com or call the Park System at 732-842-4000. For persons with hearing impairment, the Park System TTY/TDD number is 711. The Monmouth County Park System, created in 1960 by the Monmouth County Board of County Commissioners, is Monmouth County’s Open Space, Parks and Recreation agency.
Your guide to fireworks, parades and other July 4 celebrations in and around Middletown:MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Independence Day falls on a Friday in 2025, kicking off a star-spangled three-day weekend packed with fireworks, festivals and other Fourth of July fun in and around Middletown.To help you fit it all in on your 4th of July calendar, Patch has put together a guide to what’s going on in Middletown and the surrounding areas.July 4 Festivities for 2025:1. The annual Hazlet fireworks s...
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — Independence Day falls on a Friday in 2025, kicking off a star-spangled three-day weekend packed with fireworks, festivals and other Fourth of July fun in and around Middletown.
To help you fit it all in on your 4th of July calendar, Patch has put together a guide to what’s going on in Middletown and the surrounding areas.
July 4 Festivities for 2025:
1. The annual Hazlet fireworks show is scheduled for dusk on July 3 at Veterans Park. Bring your chairs or a blanket to sit upon. Celebration begins at 6 p.m. with deejay.
2. The Riverview Medical Center Foundation’s annual fireworks display is set to return to the Navesink River on July 3. The beloved event will be held at a private home. Fireworks go off between 9:15-9:30 p.m. Thursday. Spectators can enjoy the show from various locations along the river, or by boat near the Oceanic Bridge.
3. Long Branch will host OceanFest July 4 at Pier Village, with fireworks that go off at 9 p.m.
Time: 1-9 p.m. on Long Branch's Great Lawn and Promenade Fireworks go off at 9 p.m., when it gets dark. Come to Pier Village to watch, stroll around the shops, restaurants and beach.
You can also buy private tickets to be on the rooftop deck at the Wave resort for the party. Take in panoramic views of the ocean and city skyline while enjoying front-row seats to the Long Branch Fireworks Show. There will be live music on the rooftop. Buy tickets here: https://piervillage.com/event/...
Looking ahead: Come to Middletown Night on July 18 at the Jersey Shore BlueClaws, a Star Wars-themed event. First pitch is at 7:05 p.m. Fireworks go off when it gets dark.
The track, football field and baseball fields are now officially a public park. Mater Dei Prep High School will be demolished by early fall.MIDDLETOWN, NJ — On Wednesday, Middletown held its official acquisition ceremony as the town took ownership of the former Mater Dei Prep High School property from Saint Mary Mother of God Catholic church.The 25-acre property is now officially a town park open to all; Mater Dei's outdoor track, football field and four baseball fields will all remain and they can be used by the public...
MIDDLETOWN, NJ — On Wednesday, Middletown held its official acquisition ceremony as the town took ownership of the former Mater Dei Prep High School property from Saint Mary Mother of God Catholic church.
The 25-acre property is now officially a town park open to all; Mater Dei's outdoor track, football field and four baseball fields will all remain and they can be used by the public or rented out by youth and adult sports leagues.
The site, located at 538 Church Street, Middletown, will be renamed Mater Dei Park. Look for a sign to go up soon.
Mater Dei Prep closed its doors forever in 2022, citing a steep drop in student enrollment. For more than 60 years, Mater Dei provided a well-regarded Catholic education to Monmouth County teens, but enrollment had dwindled to just 220 students when it closed.
Demolition of Mater Dei High School is expected to be completed by early fall. A specific date has still not been released for when Mater Dei will be demolished. Middletown says the high school building does not meet current safety standards.
Wednesday's signing ceremony was held on the Mater Dei High School football field. The sale price is $11.75 million. In March, Middletown announced it reached an agreement to pay Saint Mary $11.75 million for the property:
75 percent of the sale price, $8,812,500, will be funded by a grant from Monmouth County, through the county's Municipal Land Preservation Incentive Program. Middletown will fund the remaining 25 percent — just under $3 million — with the money coming out of the Township’s Open Space Trust Fund.
"The county will hold a conservation easement which ensures that the new park is permanently preserved and can never be developed for non-park and recreation purposes," Monmouth County Commissioner Director Tom Arnone said at Wednesday's ceremony.
None of these plans affect St. Mary's grammar school, which will still continue to operate as usual on site and has a healthy enrollment. Middletown and St. Mary’s Church have agreed to share access to the site’s parking lot, for visitors to both the new park and the church and school.
The $11.75 million will go directly to St. Mary Mother of God; it will not go to the diocese in Trenton. This is a millions-of-dollars-cash infusion for Middletown's Catholic church. It will be used to pay down debt service, parish maintenance and start a student endorsement fund to continue Catholic education in Middletown, said St. Mary's pastor Father Jeff Kegley.
“A majority of the funds the parish receives from this purchase will go toward an endowment for St. Mary’s School to continue fostering Catholic education,” said Kegley. “St. Mary’s is one of the best schools in our diocese, and we want to ensure that it stays that way.”
Saint Mary's beloved fairs and seasonal events will also continue on site.
Middletown Mayor Tony Perry has made preserving open space in Middletown a key goal of his administration. The town's decision to purchase Mater Dei — with significant funding provided by the county — is a milestone in Perry's legacy.
“This landmark agreement symbolizes the strength of collaboration to preserve Middletown’s unique character,” said Perry Wednesday. “Through the power of shared values and strategic investment, this Township park will forever hold the memories of the terrific games, athletes, famous alumni and incredible individuals who called this place their alma mater.”
MIDDLETOWN — The white and blue letters across the green grass marked a new chapter for Mater Dei Prep's former football field. On the morning of June 25, those letters spelled "Mater Dei Park" to mark what will become Monmouth County's newest preserved open space.The green fields here — where adults walked the track and children played baseball on that hot Wednesday morning — were at risk of being redeveloped into townhomes, Middletown Mayor Anthony "Tony" Perry said."These 25 acres w...
MIDDLETOWN — The white and blue letters across the green grass marked a new chapter for Mater Dei Prep's former football field. On the morning of June 25, those letters spelled "Mater Dei Park" to mark what will become Monmouth County's newest preserved open space.
The green fields here — where adults walked the track and children played baseball on that hot Wednesday morning — were at risk of being redeveloped into townhomes, Middletown Mayor Anthony "Tony" Perry said.
"These 25 acres will now forever be preserved," he said. "It will forever hold the memory of all the terrific football games, baseball games, all the athletes (of Mater Dei Prep), all the famous alumni."
Earlier this year, Perry announced the township and county had reached an agreement with St. Mary, Mother of God Church in Middletown to acquire the Mater Dei property for $11.75 million dollars. On Wednesday, he said the county would be funding $8.8 million of that purchase.
St. Mary's Pastor Jeffrey J. Kegley said the money would go into an endowment that will support the parish's school in Middletown that serves preschool through eighth grade students.
"We are committed to Catholic education here at Saint Mary School," he said.
Church leaders announced the closure of Mater Dei Prep, the adjacent high school, in 2022. School leaders at the time cited a severe decline in enrollment as driving the decision.
Even before the school closed, Mater Dei's athletic fields became a popular recreation and exercise spot for the community, Kegley said.
"It essentially became a park during COVID," he said. "People were riding bikes. Parents (were) pushing the carriages. It really had that park feel."
By keeping the Mater Dei name, the new park will honor the school's and parish's histories, Kegley said.
"This would be a travesty if this was not preserved," Monmouth County Commissioner Director Thomas Arnone said. "We are not only going to keep what we had before (at this site), we're actually going to make it a little better."
While local officials said the grounds and athletic facilities will be preserved or improved, demolition has already started on Mater Dei Prep's building.
"Despite the fact that the school is closed, this is not a shutdown facility," Perry said.
Amanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers education and the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than 17 years. Reach her at @OglesbyAPP, [email protected] or 732-557-5701.
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