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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

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Home Care In New River, AZ

Home Care New River, AZ

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 New River Nature Reserve 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 New River, AZ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care New River, AZ

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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.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provided in home personal care for my sister for seven years. Their caregivers were skilled, professional and most importantly demonstrated genuine concern for my sister's well-being. They provided three shift coverage, covered vacations, and recruited new caregivers when required. The owner and office staff were delightful to work with. I would highly recommend them.”

Julie S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always provided great care for my mom and Chelsea was amazing. Thank you!”

Patty W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services went above and beyond anything that we ever could have expected. Our 87-year-old mom was provided with kind, gentle care and attention by everyone who cared for her. Nobody expects to be in the situation of needing a caregiver. We are extremely grateful that Always Best Care was able to provide their services. If you are in need a caregiver and income assistance for yourself or a loved one needs in home caregiving, we highly recommend Always Best Care.”

Lisa D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with Always Best. This stuff can be a nightmare but the team here is simply the best and makes everything easy!”

Soular S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My grandmother has received nothing but the best care and attention since starting services with Always Best. This stuff can be a nightmare but the team here is simply the best and makes everything easy!”

Soular S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My parents had nothing but good things to say about their caregiver. She was reliable, kind, and caring and did a lot of extras that were very much appreciated. Thank you Always Best Care for all your help.”

Paul S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best is a great place to work. They treat their employees well and truly care about their customers.”

Tina G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides. We used them for our 90 year-old parents for some respite care.”

Lorenzo H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Marcy took time out of her day to answer all of my questions when I has been turned down by others. She is a wealth of knowledge and displays a tremendous amount of passion in the work that she does. I would highly recommend her for support needed with yourself or your loved one, she definitely would take the time to ensure all of your concerns and questions are addressed.”

Daniel M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides. We used them for our 90 year-old parents for some respite care.”

Erin A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My parents had nothing but good things to say about their caregiver. She was reliable, kind, and caring and did a lot of extras that were very much appreciated. Thank you Always Best Care for all your help.”

Robert M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services was top notch from the RN caseworker to the aides. We used them for our 90 year-old parents for some respite care.”

Vernice D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Marcy and her team are genuinely caring and want the best for each individual they serve. Marcy has a breadth of knowledge, experience, and connections within the community to provide support in making decisions about care of our loved ones. I highly recommend ABS.”

Julie S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Marcy took time out of her day to answer all of my questions when I has been turned down by others. She is a wealth of knowledge and displays a tremendous amount of passion in the work that she does. I would highly recommend her for support needed with yourself or your loved one, she definitely would take the time to ensure all of your concerns and questions are addressed.”

Petra M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a great company! Highly recommend!”

Brittney G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have worked with for this company for 3 years and they are great people to work for. Marcy goes above and beyond for her clients and genuinely cares for her clients. Highly recommend if you need care for a loved one or if you are looking for a job as a caregiver.”

Heather C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The care for my wife was wonderful for abut 9 months when I had to place her in a home for Alzheimer's patients. The care and concern for her well-being was at the top of their agenda! The staff that looked after my wife was very good! Should I need home care services again, Always Best Care would be at the top of my list!”

Lauren B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best took excellent care of my mom. They made sure that whoever took care of her didn’t wear perfume and didn’t smoke. They also provided me with updates. Highly recommend”

Eric B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I recently had a situation with the wedding of my daughter that needed a caregiver. My daughter's father is disabled and needed extra assistance to look his best and get to the wedding. Always Best Care was there to help. They were understanding, professional and on time. Since then I have needed Always Best Care's services for my 93 year old Aunt. My Aunt has loved the friendly , cheerful company and the help has been priceless. Trust is a huge factor with having someone come into our home. I trust Always Best Care. They have done an excellent job with management , communication, and consistent high quality care.”

Michael J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our family needed to get my disabled brother in an assisted living environment quickly as his care giver's health (our mother) was in decline. Always Best Care came to our rescue after finding out the needs and type of care needed to get our brother into a safe environment. We spent many hours looking and found the right place for him all in one day. Always Best Care also gave us resources to get additional financial help that my brother could qualified for. These amazing women helped us in a very stressful and emotional time when we were under extreme pressure and they made it as easy as possible considering the situation. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts!”

Tony R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’d been caring for my father full time, 24/7 for 3.5 years before realizing I needed a break. Deciding on Respite Care was a difficult decision for many reasons. (If you know, you know). By the time we found Dixie at Always Best Care we had been through 6 care providers and two agencies in 12 months due to staffing issues. Marcy (owner) was warm, engaging and present. The support staff at Always Best were only ever a text away. (Thank you ladies!) And Dixie, Dad’s final friend, was a perfect fit. It didn’t take long for Dixie to feel like part of our family. On Dads last morning before Hospice we took him to breakfast at his favorite place. And if didn’t feel right unless Dixie was there. Thank you for helping my Dad and my Family through these final steps. You have my gratitude. (Image used with permission)”

Kevin J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We feel blessed to have found Marcy and her amazing group of caregivers to assist our Mom in remaining at home through the end of her life. Everyone involved in her care was extremely compassionate, understanding and flexible. It was so nice to have Marcy come out each time a new caregiver was assigned in order to introduce them to Mom. I always felt comfortable and confident in the quality of her care and safety.”

Shannon L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our caregiver Marcy, with Always Best Care, is very attentive to our needs and exceeds our expectations! She is always willing to do whatever it takes to provide excellent care for my 90-year-old mother!”

Thomas M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our family came to Always Best Care by way of VA benefits awarded which they were contracted to provide. Quickly, we could see ABC rates were more than competitive than the private care provider our family had in place. The Director's personal customer service was heads and shoulders above any provider in the East Valley we had interviewed or utilized. The staff was highly qualified, on time and professional. The Director hosted personal orientations with each new caregiver that entered our home to ensure there was never a gap in continuity of Care. Our prior experience was deflating and included 3 shifts that "no one even showed up for work" and worse, "the company didn't even know that the caregiver was not at work". ABC was just the opposite!! They used technology/communication savvy to ensure our Dad had the coverage we expected. I was impressed that Always Best Care prioritized my Father and, the overall needs of the entire family. As the care level increased, Always Best Care helped us adjust, understand what was happening and ultimately - increased care as needed...no matter in the event that it was an holiday or an overnight request. They were there with us personally to the end. I am a huge fan of ABC and can't express enough how grateful I am/was for their friendship and help. Please trust your loved ones to Always Best Care! You will love it~~”

Mercedes A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Marcy, and her company, has been amazing to me and my mother in law. Marcy is very compassionate of the work, she does... she goes above and beyond, the needs of others. She has found Care for us, in our time of need, and we are appreciated the services render. Wouldn't ask for a better, company. ????”

Tina R.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in New River, AZ?

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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.

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

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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.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care New River, AZ

Types of Elderly Care in New River, AZ

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

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

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

Respite Care New River, AZ
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers New River, AZ
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 New River Nature Reserve with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care New River, AZ
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 Roadrunner Restaurant & Saloon or visit Historic Gillespie Dam Bridge, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

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

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

 In-Home Care New River, AZ

Benefits of Home Care in New River, AZ

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.

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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 New River, AZ, 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 New River, AZ

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 AZ'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 New River, AZ

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 New River, AZ 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 New River, AZ

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 New River, AZ

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:

  • New River Senior Center
  • Abundant Hills Assisted Living
  • Country Club Assisted Living Care Home
  • A Place For Mom - Senior Living Advisor Jennifer Ellsworth
  • The Enclave at Anthem Senior Living
  • Stephanie's Senior Services
Home Care New River, AZ

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 New River, AZ

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

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

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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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 New River, AZ 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

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

 Elderly Care New River, AZ

Latest News in New River, AZ

The Most Snake-Infested Rivers in Arizona

While there are no water snakes native to Arizona, some invasive semi-aquatic species occupy areas in the state that are close to a water source. Most of the water snakes in the US occur in the southeastern parts of the country. However, some are found as far north as New England. However, all snake species can swim, while several are semi-aquatic, so seeing serpents in rivers, dams, and lakes is not unusual. Below is a...

While there are no water snakes native to Arizona, some invasive semi-aquatic species occupy areas in the state that are close to a water source. Most of the water snakes in the US occur in the southeastern parts of the country. However, some are found as far north as New England. However, all snake species can swim, while several are semi-aquatic, so seeing serpents in rivers, dams, and lakes is not unusual. Below is a list of the most snake-infested rivers in Arizona and what you should do if you see one.

Water Snakes Found in Arizona Rivers

There are several semi-aquatic water snakes that inhabit Arizona’s rivers, including:

The black-necked garter snake occurs throughout southeastern and central Arizona. These snakes are semi-aquatic and generally found near water sources along semi-permanent streams and in rocky upland canyons. When visiting Sabino Canyon, guests often see black-necked snakes along the creek, usually in the riparian area. Snake enthusiasts typically visit this area when the creek flow diminishes, as these snakes are often sighted near the remaining pools of water, where they hunt for food.

The checkered garter snake is mostly found in desert and grassland habitats in southeastern Arizona. They are often sighted near water sources, like lakes, rivers, canals, wetlands, cattle tanks, and ditches. These snakes live in arid areas, so they are surprisingly good at locating water sources.

The Mexican garter snake primarily occurs in Arizona. However, there are scattered populations in southwestern New Mexico. These snakes inhabit marshes, rivers, stock tanks, lake impoundments, and fish hatcheries, and they occur at lower elevations than their cousins, the narrow-headed garter snake.

Also known as the Southern banded water snake, the banded water snake is an invasive species that occurs in Arizona. These snakes aren’t harmful to humans, but they do negatively impact native species. Furthermore, they can sometimes alter the ecosystem. Banded water snakes are excellent hunters and have a high reproduction rate, so they compete with native species for food and space.

Unfortunately, the narrow-headed garter snake is of special concern in the USA because of its fast decline over native habitats throughout the country. However, Oak Creek in Arizona has always housed the largest population of these snakes in the United States.

Most Snake-Infested Rivers in Arizona

The Colorado River is often referred to as the hardest-working river in the West. It’s a unique and diverse river that passes through 11 various national parks and monuments as it snakes through the different landscapes of two countries and seven states. Furthermore, it is an essential water supply for industry, agriculture, and municipalities from Tijuana to Denver. As a result, it supports a $1.4 trillion annual economy. This river offers plenty of recreational activities, like boating, fishing, whitewater paddling, backpacking, hiking, wildlife viewing, and more.

The Colorado River is one of the most snake-infested rivers in Arizona. It is home to five semi-aquatic snakes:

One of the West’s longest rivers, the Gila River, originates from the headwaters of the Black Range in the wild Aldo Leopold Wilderness and above 10,000 feet in the Mogollon Mountains of the Gila Wilderness. This river initially flowed 500 miles until it merged with the Colorado River, within proximity to the Mexican border. However, today, the river is drained dry halfway through because of municipal diversions and large irrigation in Arizona.

The Gila River is one of the most snake-infested rivers in Arizona. It is home to two semi-aquatic species, the black-neck garter snake and the narrow-headed garter snake. But if you see one of these serpents in the water, do not fear. They are not venomous and will probably be more scared of you than you are of them.

The San Francisco River runs through the wildlands of western New Mexico and eastern Arizona, flowing through narrow canyons, pine forests, and desert wilderness before merging with the Gila River. This historic river is 160 miles long, originating in The Grand Canyon State’s White Mountains, southwest of Alpine. It flows into New Mexico through the Luna Valley, with the San Francisco Mountains to the south and the Hellroaring Mesa and the Dillion Mountains to the north.

The San Francisco River is one of the most snake-infested rivers in Arizona. While it is only home to one semi-aquatic species, the narrow-headed garter snake, there have been many sightings of this snake in the water.

The Salt River is well-known for its dry gravel bed in Phoenix’s metropolitan area. However, further upstream, it is a vibrant, living stream. This river is the lifeblood of Pheonix and the surrounding areas. For example, it flows through the breathtaking yet rugged canyon wilderness, where it plays a vital role in cultivating industries, farms, and development. As a result, it was essential in developing the city of Pheonix, which sits in the Sonoran Desert.

The Salt River is one of the most snake-infested rivers in Arizona, as it is home to the narrow-headed garter snake. However, these snakes are not harmful to humans, so if you see one, just let it be, and it will leave you alone.

The Verde River is Arizona’s only federally designated wild and scenic river. It originates from the ground in Paulden, a rural community southwest of Flagstaff. This river is 195 miles long and runs southeastward through federal, private, state, and tribal lands before merging with the Salt River near Phoenix. While this river’s preservation is essential to the wildlife in the area and recreation, it is also vital to the health of the Verde River’s watershed, which feeds many Arizona communities downstream. Verde River is one of the most snake-infested rivers in Arizona. It is home to two semi-aquatic snakes, the Mexican and narrow-headed garter snakes.

Other Animals Found Near Rivers in Arizona

Snakes are not the only animals found near rivers in Arizona. There are many species that rely on these rivers as a water source, habitat, and more; they include:

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Discover the "Monster" Snake 5X Bigger than an Anaconda

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New Arizona development projects paused due to dwindling water supply

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announced construction around Phoenix will be limited moving forward to protect groundwater supplies. This comes after Arizona was one of three southwestern states to reach a historic agreement to cut millions of gallons of Colorado River water usage over the next four years.What we're learning is that Hobbs is pausing water supply certificates that rely solely on groundwater. She says it will only impact new development, not current development."For generations, groundwater has supported Arizo...

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announced construction around Phoenix will be limited moving forward to protect groundwater supplies. This comes after Arizona was one of three southwestern states to reach a historic agreement to cut millions of gallons of Colorado River water usage over the next four years.

What we're learning is that Hobbs is pausing water supply certificates that rely solely on groundwater. She says it will only impact new development, not current development.

"For generations, groundwater has supported Arizona communities. In times of shortage, it is groundwater that we turn to as a back-up. In many communities throughout Arizona, it is the only water supply available, and so we must manage it wisely," said Hobbs.

Driving the state's decision was a projection that showed that over the next 100 years, demand in metro Phoenix for almost 4.9 million acre-feet of groundwater would be unmet without further action, Hobbs said. An acre-foot of water is roughly enough for two to three U.S. households per year.

Gov. Hobbs puts pause on water supply certificates

Arizona Governor Katie Hobbs announced construction around Phoenix will be limited moving forward to protect groundwater supplies. This comes after Arizona was one of three southwestern states to reach a historic agreement to cut millions of gallons of Colorado River water usage over the next four years. FOX 10s Lindsey Ragas reports.

Despite the move, the governor said the state isn’t running out of water. "Nobody who has water is going to lose their water," Hobbs said.

Officials said the move would not affect existing homeowners who already have assured water supplies.

Hobbs released a study analyzing Valley groundwater supplies for the next century. She says it allows certainty for businesses and communities.

"If we do nothing, we could face a 4% shortfall in groundwater supplies over the next 100 years. We have to close this gap and find efficiencies for our water use, manage our aquifers wisely and increase our utilization of renewable supplies."

Closing that gap includes pausing water supply certificates.

"Everywhere in the Phoenix AMA [active management areas] where a new development or certificate is sought, we will not be able to approve that certificate based solely on groundwater. There are other ways they can meet certificate requirements. They can bring in not groundwater resources outside AMAs. They can utilize long term storage credits that are already underground for these purposes. They can use unreclaimed water," said Director Tom Buschatzke.

Hobbs says there is a bipartisan solution moving forward through legislation to address underlying issues, like the Rio Verde water situation.

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The start of 2023 brought new concerns for some residents in the Rio Verde Foothills area, as Scottsdale shut off their water supply due to the ongoing drought. Here's what you should know about what happened, and what people are trying to do to secure a water supply for the future.

"That's an example of a development that happened using loopholes in the groundwater management program. And that's why the groundwater management program is important."

Hobbs also announced a $40 million investment of funds for water conservation, infrastructure and sustainable groundwater management.

"This Phoenix AMA groundwater model and 100 year forecast are critical tools that help us look into the future proactively manage our water supplies."

As for the certificates, Hobbs says this will not impact the 80,000 unbuilt homes that already have certificates. There are pending applications in the Buckeye area.

Years of drought in the West worsened by climate change have ratcheted up pressure among Western states to use less water. Much of the focus has stayed on the dwindling Colorado River, a main water source for Arizona and six other Western states. Over the past two years, Arizona's supply from the 1,450-mile powerhouse of the West has been cut twice.

Phoenix relies on imported Colorado River water and also uses water from the in-state Salt and Verde rivers. A small amount of the city’s water supply comes from groundwater and recycled wastewater.

The drought has made groundwater — held in underground aquifers that can take many years to be replenished — even more vital.

Under a 1980 state law aimed at protecting the state’s aquifers, Phoenix, Tucson and other Arizona cities have restrictions on how much groundwater they can pump. But in rural areas, there are few limitations on its use.

Long pumped by farmers and rural residents in Arizona with little oversight, Hobbs and other state officials recently vowed to the state's groundwater supplies.

In rapidly growing Phoenix suburbs such as Queen Creek and Buckeye, developers have relied on unallocated groundwater to show that they had adequate water supplies for the next 100 years, which Arizona requires for building permits in some areas.

"Developers rely on groundwater because it has been frankly, cheaper and easier for them, and they have been able to move through the process much more quickly," said Nicole Klobas, chief counsel for the Arizona Department of Water Resources.

Under the new restrictions, that won't be possible.

"It closes off that path," said Kathryn Sorenson, director of research at the Kyl Center for Water Policy at Arizona State University.

Because the rule largely affects cities and towns outside Phoenix and larger cities in the metro area, Sorenson said developers would likely "weigh whether they want to continue to buy relatively cheap land ... and incur the cost of developing a whole new water supply versus purchase land that is probably more expensive without the boundaries of a designated city."

What might cuts to dwindling Colorado River mean for states?

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration floated two ideas this week to reduce water usage from the dwindling Colorado River, which supplies 40 million people.The 1,450-mile (2,334-kilometer) river is a lifeline for seven U.S. states, dozens of Native American tribes, and two states in Mexico. It irrigates nearly 5.5 million acres (about 2.2 million hectares) of farmland in the U.S. and Mexico and generates hydroelectric power used across the West.In recent decades, drought, climate change and an imbalance between the r...

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Biden administration floated two ideas this week to reduce water usage from the dwindling Colorado River, which supplies 40 million people.

The 1,450-mile (2,334-kilometer) river is a lifeline for seven U.S. states, dozens of Native American tribes, and two states in Mexico. It irrigates nearly 5.5 million acres (about 2.2 million hectares) of farmland in the U.S. and Mexico and generates hydroelectric power used across the West.

In recent decades, drought, climate change and an imbalance between the river’s flows and how much water users are promised has forced federal officials to consider new steps.

Tuesday’s analysis from the Interior Department considers two ways to force cuts in the water supply for Arizona, Nevada and California: use the existing water priority system or the same percentage across the board. California and some tribes with senior rights to water benefit more under the first option. Arizona and Nevada, largely with junior rights, don’t feel as much pain under the second.

Federal officials haven’t taken a stance.

WHAT PROMPTED THE ANALYSIS?

The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, under the Interior Department, made a bombshell announcement last June as levels in the Colorado River’s key reservoirs dropped to historic lows. Federal officials said water use in the basin would have to be cut by 15% to 30%.

States scrambled to meet consensus, tensions rose and, ultimately, no deal was reached. But the challenges on the river persisted, and federal officials said they’d need to consider changing the operations at Hoover Dam that holds back Lake Mead and Glen Canyon Dam, which controls Lake Powell. The reservoirs on the Colorado River are the largest built in the U.S.

States regrouped and came up with competing ideas in January for reducing use. California proposed a plan separate from the other six states — Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming and Utah.

The proposals released Tuesday built on some of those ideas and rejected others.

HOW WOULD EACH PLAN AFFECT CALIFORNIA?

California is entitled to 4.4 million acre feet of water annually, more than any other single state in the Colorado River basin. California’s rights also are among the most secure.

Shares of water for California, Arizona, Nevada and Mexico come from Lake Mead.

Under current rules, California doesn’t lose any water until Lake Mead falls below 1,045 feet (318 meters) — about a foot lower than it is now. Even under the worst-case scenario, California would fare better than its neighbors in the Lower Basin.

The priority-based proposal would benefit cities and farm districts in California like the Imperial Valley. It’s a vast farming region in the southeast part of the state that grows a significant amount of the nation’s winter vegetables. The valley would lose no additional water under this proposal based on its senior rights.

California is far worse off if cuts are spread more evenly. As Lake Mead dips lower, it would have to cut more water, eventually up to about one-fifth of its allocation.

Its farming regions would be hard-hit, likely meaning growers would leave some fields unplanted. Cities like Los Angeles and San Diego have other sources of water, but a loss of river water could spur conservation rules that limit activities like watering grass.

WHAT ABOUT ARIZONA?

Arizona is in a tough spot regardless of what proposal moves forward because much of its water has a junior status in the priority system.

The state’s water users are entitled to 2.8 million acre feet of Colorado River water annually. Native American tribes along the Colorado River and farmers near Yuma in southwestern Arizona hold priority over cities.

The Central Arizona Project, which manages a canal system that delivers water to metropolitan Phoenix and Tucson, oversees roughly 1.6 million of those acre feet. It already has absorbed two rounds of mandatory cuts and would be hard-hit under the priority-based proposal.

If the cuts are spread based on the priority system, Arizona would be at risk of losing nearly two-thirds of its total river water in 2024. Under the proportional system that requires California to contribute more, Arizona would lose about one-third.

Under both options, some Arizona water users could have their allocations cut to zero if Lake Mead falls low enough to risk hydropower production.

It’s not clear exactly how either plan would affect farmers and cities. The Colorado River isn’t the only source of water for Arizona’s most populous areas. Many have been banking water underground for years.

WHAT ABOUT NEVADA?

Nevada has the smallest amount of Colorado River in the Lower Basin, 300,000 acre feet, that serves metropolitan Las Vegas.

Water recycling and other measures in southern Nevada have safeguarded the water supply. The state doesn’t use its full allocation. It would face some relatively small cuts, but it’s unclear how deeper cuts would affect residents.

WHAT ABOUT THE UPPER BASIN?

None of the plans would affect water deliveries to Colorado, Utah, New Mexico or Wyoming.

The four states get water directly from the river and, in most years, do not use the full 7.5 million acre feet appropriated to the Upper Basin.

WHY DOES THE ANALYSIS MATTER?

The analysis provides water users some fresh starting points in negotiations over cuts.

“The question will become ‘how bad that pain is and who it falls on,’” said Jay Weiner, an attorney for the Fort Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe.

The tribe along the Arizona-California border has senior rights to water and has opposed sidestepping the priority system, as has California and its irrigation districts.

Bill Hasencamp, manager of Colorado River resources for the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, says the two proposals will spur renewed efforts to reach consensus over the next 45 days. That goal has been elusive for nearly a year.

WOULD DOING NOTHING RISK DISASTER?

Yes.

Doing nothing raises the risk that Lake Powell and Lake Mead drop so low that hydropower from their dams is threatened. Power production has already been affected with low lake levels. Voluntary water conservation can help. Precipitation, runoff from the Rocky Mountains and temperature also play a role.

The priority-based proposal would protect Lake Powell’s water levels — but could result in lower capacity at Hoover Dam. Sharing percentage-based cuts would help stabilize power production at both dams.

Everyone agrees that relying on the existing rules and guidelines that expire in 2026 is not a real option.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

States, tribes and other water users have until May 30 to comment. Federal officials are expected to announce a formal decision this summer. If states and tribes don’t reach consensus, that deadline could be delayed.

Meanwhile, representatives from the U.S. and Mexico will meet in the coming weeks and months to discuss Mexico’s role. The treaties governing Mexico’s voluntary water savings are separate from any agreements reached between U.S. states and Native American tribes.

Federal officials will announce how much water is available for 2024 in mid-August, along with any reductions in the Lower Basin states and Mexico.

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This story corrects that Glen Canyon Dam controls Lake Powell, not Lake Mead, in paragraph 8.

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The Associated Press receives support from the Walton Family Foundation for coverage of water and environmental policy. The AP is solely responsible for all content. For all of AP’s environmental coverage, visit https://apnews.com/hub/climate-and-environment

Hydrogeologic reality tops the list for causes of New River-area water woes

Hydrogeologic reality tops the list for causes of New River-area water woesIn the foothills regions north of Phoenix, all the ingredients for a recipe of chronic water-woes have been whipping together in recent years.Rapid population growth and the construction of numerous tiny developments that fall outside of Arizona’s strict “Active Management Area” requirements for assured water supplies have straine...

Hydrogeologic reality tops the list for causes of New River-area water woes

In the foothills regions north of Phoenix, all the ingredients for a recipe of chronic water-woes have been whipping together in recent years.

Rapid population growth and the construction of numerous tiny developments that fall outside of Arizona’s strict “Active Management Area” requirements for assured water supplies have strained the capacity of the area’s shallow aquifers. They can’t provide enough groundwater to the area’s residential wells.

The result? A year ago, it prompted a crisis in Rio Verde Foothills, an unincorporated area near Scottsdale. There, around 500 homeowners had come to rely on water-hauling trucks that tapped into city of Scottsdale fire hydrants, which the city deemed a safety hazard.

The crisis ebbed when the city agreed to make upgrades to a water-filling station that made the facility safer and more permanent.

The issue is playing out again in the Desert Hills and New River areas where commercial haulers supply residents with fresh water from a city of Phoenix hydrant. Again, out of safety concerns, the city informed the haulers that the hydrant was intended exclusively for temporary uses such as construction projects and county dust-control.

While the water-supply issues involve plenty of policy considerations, they originate in the hydrology of the region. And, while hydrogeology usually is a pretty complex thing, the hydrogeological issues facing the foothills north of Phoenix are as basic and straightforward as hydrogeology gets:

“The general area is located at -- or near -- the margin of the regional aquifer system and shallow bedrock conditions exist in many areas that limit the current and future productivity of wells,” observed Frank Corkhill, chief hydrologist for the Arizona Department of Water Resources.

Corkhill was addressing issues facing the New River/Desert Hills region north of Phoenix, near the substantial Anthem development, which is part of Phoenix.

He made those observations to a reporter for the north Phoenix online magazine In&Out, which was investigating why many homeowners in the area were experiencing problems with the productivity of their wells. They weren’t getting water like they used to, and many of them were blaming the big development at Anthem for hogging all the groundwater.

But as Corkhill explained to the reporter, Anthem gets its water from a renewable supply of Colorado River surface water that it leases from the Ak Chin Indian Community. It doesn’t use groundwater.

As reported on September 12 by In&Out editor Karen Goveia, declining water levels “across the rural areas of the North Valley stem from a combination of high levels of domestic water pumping by a large number of users within a shallow aquifer.

“Their pumping is certainly having an effect on themselves,” Corkhill told In&Out.

“When you have so many (wells) clustered in the same area, they can have a large collective effect.”

Salt River Tubing is back for the season with a new owner: here’s what’s different

MESA, AZ(3TV/CBS 5) - It’s the unofficial start of summer: Salt River Tubing is back! The season opens on Saturday, April 29th.While it’s been a staple in the Valley for years, the company has a new owner. William Jinks, a Valley businessman, and longtime resident, purchased it from the previous owners of 43 years, Henri and Lynda Breault.What’s new for 2023? Jinks has added an online reservation system and how you pick up your tube should be easier. Instead of picking it up at the Salt River Tubing loc...

MESA, AZ(3TV/CBS 5) - It’s the unofficial start of summer: Salt River Tubing is back! The season opens on Saturday, April 29th.

While it’s been a staple in the Valley for years, the company has a new owner. William Jinks, a Valley businessman, and longtime resident, purchased it from the previous owners of 43 years, Henri and Lynda Breault.

What’s new for 2023? Jinks has added an online reservation system and how you pick up your tube should be easier. Instead of picking it up at the Salt River Tubing location along Bush Highway, you just have to pick up a wristband there. Then you can get on a bus and pick up your tube at the water.

“It’s such a popular, iconic spot,” Jinks said. “Ever since COVID the lines have just gotten crazy, so it’s just the way to speed up the lines.”

Jinks grew up in the Valley and has a transportation business. He bought the business because he felt like he could bring about some positive changes.

Tube rentals are $25, which includes a shuttle ride. If you’re bringing your own tube it’s $18 for the shuttle. Here’s more on reservations and pricing.

The start of the season means the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office is focusing on safety. Sgt. Joaquin Enriquez spoke to Arizona’s Family on Friday. While some recreation areas had been closed because of the river flows, Enriquez says everything is back open.

Deputies never see a dip in people recreating along the Salt River, Enriquez said. It seems to be a year-long activity. If you plan on tubing, he suggests having a plan. Tell someone where you are going, drink responsibly, and have a designated driver.

Enriquez also says if you’re paddleboarding, you need to also bring a lifejacket. Know the law and the area, he added.

In terms of staffing, Enriquez says lake patrol deputies are on their summer schedule, which means they have double the resources. “Safety is a top concern for us out here,” Enriquez said. “We want everyone to have fun, but we want everyone to be safe.”

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