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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 Myrtle Beach, SC

Home Care Myrtle Beach, SC

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 Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center 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 Myrtle Beach, SC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Myrtle Beach, SC

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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

“Nate and his team have helped multiple family members and the service and support was a great peace of mind. Care of those in need can be a heavy load on the family, and Always Best Care made everything run better in the household. Their care extended past those in need and helped the other family members provide better care. The experience was a breath of fresh air.”

Joseph S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I engaged Nate as a consultant to search for the right Assisted Living Facility for my mom. This service is no cost to the family. He spent quite some time getting my mom's preferences clarified and then searching for matching AL facilities. All of this was done in less than two days. He and I talked through the options and I relayed the two I felt were best to mom. Nate personally picked mom up from rehab and took her on those tours, which was a godsend because I live in another state. During both tours, he texted me "play by plays" as to how it was going. He helped me and mom choose the right place for her budget and needs - and was very patient with us as my mom took longer than expected to make the final decision. She was talking about needing a new TV and Nate provided her/us with a link to some that were on sale that met her needs. Once the decision was made, Nate accompanied the AL staff member to mom's rehab and sat through the entire long paperwork process to ensure mom understood what she was signing. Again, he kept me in the loop by texting me regularly about how things were going during the meeting. He checked in a couple of times after that and prior to mom's move asking how our prep was going and if we needed anything. On one call, I did ask for a referral to a specific service we needed. He didn't have an established one, so he researched it and got one for me promptly. During and shortly after moving day, Nate checked in again to see how mom was settling in. I've been amazed at the personalized engagement that we received from Nate. Anytime he said he would do something, he did it and he did it promptly. If anything was delayed, he updated me immediately. This is in stark contrast to Tara at Senior Care Authority that provides this service as well. She promised me things during our initial call and didn't follow through on most of them. During our text exchanges, she never answered my specific question - always danced around it. Within a handful of days, I said "nope!", researched more, and came across Nate and this service. Ahhhh, what a breath of fresh air to receive what you asked for. I have no doubt it saved me countless hours glued to my computer, trying to compare facilities. I highly recommend Nate and his consulting service - it was an excellent experience and he was a lifesaver!”

Christine C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very professional and friendly office staff. They are also easy to communicate with. I recommend Always Best Care Senior Services for any senior in need. Also, if you ever need a job, please go and apply. They are always hiring weekly and offer competitive rates.”

Latasha C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to work here at Always Best Care over the past six months. Melisa and Nate have been wonderful and thanks for molding me into becoming a great leader. Professionalism is the key to success ????✨⭐️ I am looking forward to many years to come.”

Sabrina C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a great company and I would recommended to everyone. I have been with them for 3years Their caregivers are insightful and have so much compassion especially Mariah and Sabrina they are some of there champs they both have great personality and are very Professional. The owners are great and they run a great company.thank you for all that you guys do ????”

Tony T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a friend or relative of a current/past resident Always Best Care of the Midlands Team ensured that I was well informed, and my loved one received the best care possible. The compassionate care was delivered not only by the care professionals, but by the support team. The owners even checked in with us to offer support and guidance. They exceeded our expectations!”

Maggie
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a company that truly cares about its employees and the seniors they care for! Nate and Melisa offer regular training for caregivers so they they can provide the best care possible!”

Kayla P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Nice people to work with”

Denise D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Gina Berry takes time explaining why home care and Always Best Care is the best choice for your family’s needs. The Team at Always Best is thoughtful and supportive they go out of their way to make you feel heard and understood. They customize the care plan, care team and schedule. I recommend them to anyone considering aging in place.”

Melisa R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider From a caretakers/daughters point of view: This service is a savior for me personally. It relieves me from having to miss a lot of work time to travel to my mothers appt, now I can meet her at the appt. and save this time. The care and service she is getting is TOP NOTCH! From how easy it is for my mother to schedule and the follow through is right on the money. From a person getting the services: Melissa is the best, she calls me weekly to remind me of my appointments coming up. I am very pleased with the services and absolutely pleased with the services provided. I know that this alone helps ease the mind of my daughter. Thank you to the team at Always Best Care!”

Stephanie A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a great company to work for and if you are looking for care for a loved one, I highly recommend them. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and supportive. I work in the senior industry and recommend Always Best Care to my clients that need extra support in their home or while family is away. Always Best Care will respond immediately and truly show compassion to others.”

Dusty B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The Staff, the care teams and the owners are one of a kind! They take the time to ensure your care needs are met. Highly recommend giving them a call if you have senior care or senior living questions or concerns.”

Melisa B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Nate took the time to meet with me and my family and help make sense of the questions we had when it came to the short and long term care of our loved one. When you have an elderly parent or a loved one with disabilities there are so many questions and so many emotions. It can be so confusing and it was hard for us to find one person or one company that has the knowledge and grasp of this industry that Nate has. We cannot thank him enough for guiding us through this process and his amazing bedside manner!”

pam C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hello to all of my Always Best Care friends, I'd like to wish you and your families a Merry, Blessed Christmas and a Happy, Prosperous New Year!  My brother, my dad, and I really appreciate everything you did for us this year.  You're amazing! All the best for the Christmas season and 2023,”

Neal L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider It is essential to us, he really needs assistance daily, and I work full time. I like their team approach.”

Elizabeth &.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is one of the best companies I’ve worked for in a long time. The owners, Nate and Melisa, genuinely care about clients AND staff. They go above and beyond to support, encourage, and help everyone they work with. Their doors are always open, they’re generous with their time, and they truly want their staff to succeed. Donna in the billing department is fabulous, always available to answer questions or help in any way; Katrina in scheduling puts in so much time and effort to accommodate everyone’s needs and it’s amazing how well she handles everything; Angel works diligently on recruiting and training, making sure there’s plenty of staff to provide quality care; and Jackie is an incredible CHAMP, making sure clients are properly reassessed and care givers have the right tools and knowledge to do their job. ABC is a fantastic, compassionate, caring team I’m proud to be a part of, and I’m proud to serve our clients, too.”

Gina B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider It depends on who they hire for the job. The people they hire can improve.”

Josephine N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I would have had to quit my job if it wasn't for them and they go grocery shopping. They can have more guidance for the client and what to do for the client.”

Kyle M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They have made it positive by being friendly and courteous. I like that I do not have to worry about them; they are honest.”

Mary J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider The agency would have to make it a lot easier for me to find out about the caregiver coming out and having someone on backup. The agency could provide better scheduling and the caregivers would not come in on time.”

Anonymous_6190

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Myrtle Beach, SC?

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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 Myrtle Beach, SC

Types of Elderly Care in Myrtle Beach, SC

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 Myrtle Beach, SC
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 Myrtle Beach, SC
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 Chapin Memorial Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Myrtle Beach, SC
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 The Library Restaurant or visit Charlie's Place, 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 Myrtle Beach, SC

Benefits of Home Care in Myrtle Beach, SC

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 Myrtle Beach, SC, 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 Myrtle Beach, SC

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 SC'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 Myrtle Beach, SC

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 Myrtle Beach, SC 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 Myrtle Beach, SC

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 Myrtle Beach, SC

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:

  • Watercrest Myrtle Beach
  • Myrtle Beach Manor
  • Portside at Grande Dunes
  • Indigo Carolina Forest
  • Brightwater
  • Covenant Towers
Home Care Myrtle Beach, SC

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 Myrtle Beach, SC

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 Myrtle Beach, SC 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 Myrtle Beach, SC

Latest News in Myrtle Beach, SC

Watch your step! Keep an eye out for these dangers on Myrtle Beach, SC shores this summer

No trip to the Grand Strand would be complete without a trip to the beach. Sharks and riptides can be deadly dangers in the ocean, but don’t forget to watch where you step on the sand during beach day excitement.From stings to sprains, here are six ground hazards beach visitors should watch for along the Myrtle Beach coast.Playing in the sand is a classic beach pastime, but unfilled holes pose a danger to unsuspecting beach walkers. If you’re not paying attention, you might trip or twist your ankle stepping in a san...

No trip to the Grand Strand would be complete without a trip to the beach. Sharks and riptides can be deadly dangers in the ocean, but don’t forget to watch where you step on the sand during beach day excitement.

From stings to sprains, here are six ground hazards beach visitors should watch for along the Myrtle Beach coast.

Playing in the sand is a classic beach pastime, but unfilled holes pose a danger to unsuspecting beach walkers. If you’re not paying attention, you might trip or twist your ankle stepping in a sandy hole.

In the city of Myrtle Beach, folks digging in the sand are actually required by law to refill holes and limit digging to a maximum depth of 2 feet.

Still, to avoid a painful fall or stint in a splint, keep an eye on the sand.

A variety of jellyfish wash up on Grand Strand shores. The common cannonball jellyfish is generally harmless — some locals even toss the cannonballs back in the surf — but others can cause painful or even dangerous stings.

“They’re not very strong swimmers, so they’re pretty much at the mercy of the ocean currents and winds,” said South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) spokesperson Erin Weeks. “And so anytime we have storms offshore or strong onshore winds, they can get pushed ashore.”

Jellyfish have venomous, stinging cells that can hurt you even after they’re dead. If you’re walking the Myrtle Beach shore, keep an eye out for box, sea nettle and lion’s mane jellyfish.

Box jellies, also called sea wasps, are the most venomous jellyfish in South Carolina waters and their stings may require hospitalization, according to SCDNR. Keep an eye out for the colorless jellies about 5 to 6 inches in diameter.

Sea nettles are more common on South Carolina beaches in the summer. Typically red or brown-tinged, these jellies run about 6 to 8 inches in diameter. Sea nettles are responsible for most South Carolina jellyfish stings, but the pain is generally considered more moderate than box jellies.

Lion’s mane jellyfish are most often seen around South Carolina in the winter. Their stings are similar to those of sea nettles and don’t usually require hospitalization or professional medical attention. Keep an eye out for the lion’s mane jellyfish’s reddish-brown oral arms and 6-to-8-inch diameter.

Portuguese men-of-war aren’t especially common on Grand Strand beaches, but they’ve been known to wash up. These purplish-blue jellyfish-like creatures’ stinging cells can discharge extremely painful venom even weeks after death.

Their tentacles and polyps typically grow to about 30 feet and can extend as much as 100 feet, according to the National Ocean Service. The tentacles’ venom can paralyze and even kill small fish and crustaceans.

If you see a man-of-war on the beach, keep clear. If you step on one accidentally, the sting may be accompanied by headaches, nausea, vomiting, chills, shock or even fever, according to SCDNR.

If you step on (or get stung by) a jellyfish or man-of-war, carefully remove the tentacles to stop the discharge of venom and rinse the area with vinegar or seawater. Despite what you’ve probably seen in the movies, urine can actually worsen pain and irritate skin.

Instead, the National Library of Medicine recommends avoiding applying pressure or scraping the affected area with sand and instead soaking the area in hot–but not scalding–water for 20 to 40 minutes. Aim for about 107 to 115 degrees Fahrenheit. After soaking, you can apply cortisone cream or other steroid creams or antihistamines to help with pain and itching.

If you have chest pain, difficulty breathing or increasing pain, it’s a good idea to seek medical care.

The Myrtle Beach area also sees its share of stingrays, including Atlantic, bluntnose, cownose and roughtail stingrays. Even if you’re not out in the water, just submerging your feet on a walk, if the water’s ankle-deep you could still encounter a stingray.

The animals aren’t aggressive, but for your safety and theirs, it’s best not to step on one.

“If you spot one there’s no real concern. The only way you’re gonna have an encounter with them is if you step on them,” said SCDNR principal investigator of shark research Bryan Frazier.

In addition to watching your step, you can shuffle your feet when walking in ankle-deep salt water to warn any rays you’re coming.

“What we generally recommend people do, if they are in an area where they think sting rays are present, is to just kind of shuffle your feet along the bottom, and that gives them a chance to to move away from you.”

If the barb is lodged in the wound, you’re bleeding badly or you suspect you may be having an allergic reaction, seek professional medical attention.

For immediate care, Frazier recommends soaking the wound in hot water to denature the barb’s proteins. While the experience can be extremely painful for several hours, Frazier says the hot water will help pain subside.

After you soak the wound, clean the wound with soap or a sterilizer like peroxide or alcohol to reduce the risk of infection. Once it’s sterilized, you can use an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the wound and dress it in clean bandages.

As with any laceration, it’s important to continue to monitor a stingray injury for any signs of infection that may develop and seek antibiotics from a medical professional if necessary.

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The Sun News

703-944-4132

Maria Elena Scott writes about trending topics and what you need to know in the Grand Strand. She studied journalism at the University of Houston and covered Cleveland news before coming to the Palmetto State.

From dining to golf, here’s insight into Myrtle Beach’s growing popularity

Myrtle Beach continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for diverse lifestyles by expanding its appeal across various domains. From being ranked a top moving city by U-Haul to its recognition as a hotspot for retirees, the area draws residents and visitors alike for its affordability, mild climate, and amenities. Golf remains a vital driver of its popularity, with multiple courses earning recognition from national publications and hosting high-profile tournaments like the Myrtle Beach Classic. Additionally, attractions like ...

Myrtle Beach continues to cement its reputation as a premier destination for diverse lifestyles by expanding its appeal across various domains. From being ranked a top moving city by U-Haul to its recognition as a hotspot for retirees, the area draws residents and visitors alike for its affordability, mild climate, and amenities. Golf remains a vital driver of its popularity, with multiple courses earning recognition from national publications and hosting high-profile tournaments like the Myrtle Beach Classic. Additionally, attractions like Myrtle Beach International Airport, voted the best small airport in the U.S., and curated holiday events underscore the city's ability to combine lifestyle convenience with unique experiences.

Myrtle Beach’s burgeoning food scene also earns accolades, enhancing its reputation as a well-rounded coastal haven.

The summary above was drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All stories below were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists.

These public golf courses were named the best in South Carolina by Golfweek Magazine. How did Myrtle Beach area golf courses perform in 2024? | Published June 7, 2024 | Read Full Story by Ben Morse

The Myrtle Beach area is full of well-respected golf courses. Which Pawleys Island golf course was readers’ favorite in 2024? | Published June 29, 2024 | Read Full Story by Ben Morse

Several cities and communities in Horry County were rated as the best places for retirees to settle. Here’s why they made the list. | Published July 11, 2024 | Read Full Story by Terri Richardson

This South Carolina city has the best small airport in the US, according to USA Today. Here’s why it’s great. | Published October 3, 2024 | Read Full Story by Maria Elena Scott

A magazine dedicated to luxury international and domestic travel wrote about their top U.S. destinations for Christmas. Which South Carolina cities made the cut? | Published November 21, 2024 | Read Full Story by Elizabeth Brewer

The coastal South Carolina city was among other states, including Florida, as top moving destinations in the United States. Here’s what other Southern cities are popular. | Published January 6, 2025 | Read Full Story by Emalyn Muzzy

Golfweek recently published its list of America’s Top 200 resort golf courses. Here’s how Myrtle Beach and South Carolina courses ranked. | Published February 8, 2025 | Read Full Story by Ben Morse

From fine dining to relaxed favorites, Southern Living says these 12 restaurants are the best around Myrtle Beach. How many have you tried? | Published March 1, 2025 | Read Full Story by Maria Elena Scott

This report was produced with the help of AI tools, which summarized previous stories reported and written by McClatchy journalists. It was edited by journalists in our News division.

Annual Monday After the Masters set to welcome celebrities, golfers to the Grand Strand

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - A popular Grand Strand tradition returns Monday following golf’s first major tournament of the year.Monday After the Masters will be held at the Dye Club at Barefoot Resort in North Myrtle Beach starting at 10 a.m. Monday. The pro-am tournament will feature a number of celebrities and golfers in the event hosted by Grammy award-winning band Hootie & The Blowfish.Proceeds from the event go toward children’s educational programs and the South Carolina junior golf program.Ti...

NORTH MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WMBF) - A popular Grand Strand tradition returns Monday following golf’s first major tournament of the year.

Monday After the Masters will be held at the Dye Club at Barefoot Resort in North Myrtle Beach starting at 10 a.m. Monday. The pro-am tournament will feature a number of celebrities and golfers in the event hosted by Grammy award-winning band Hootie & The Blowfish.

Proceeds from the event go toward children’s educational programs and the South Carolina junior golf program.

Tickets for the event are also sold out. Spectators who are attending are asked to follow these guidelines:

Stay with WMBF News for updates.

MONDAY AFTER THE MASTERS 2025 - CELEBRITIES

Bob Beamon

Muggsy Bogues

Mark Bryan

Ryan Cabrera

Jim Cantore

Jillian Cardarelli

Javier Colon

Andrew Copeland

Jimbo Covert

Patrick Davis

Jay DeMarcus

Eric Dickerson

Patrick DiMarco

Shawn Drover

Debbe Dunning

Dean Felber

Ric Flair

Larry Fleet

Doug Flutie

Jackie Flynn

Jay Harris

Taylor Hicks

Edwin McCain

Urban Meyer

Corey Miller

Pete Nice

George Rogers

Darius Rucker

LaNorris Sellers

MC Serch

Sterling Sharpe

Ken Singleton

Steve Smith

Jim Sonefeld

Kevin Sorbo

Gary Valentine

Michael Waltrip

Randy Wells

Eric Winn

Tony Womack

Rutledge Wood

MONDAY AFTER THE MASTERS 2025 - PROFESSIONALS

Michael Arnaud

Woody Austin

Jason Bohn

Scott Brown

Jonathan Byrd

Brian Davis

Brendan DeJonge

Chris DiMarco

Ken Duke

Tommy Gainey

Robert Gamez

Bryce Hendrix

Mike Hulbert

Billy Hurley

Billy Kratzert

Rob Labritz

Kristy McPherson

Tim O’Neal

Greg Owen

Rod Pampling

Scott Parel

Cameron Percy

Ted Potter, Jr.

Charlie Rymer

Mark Silvers

Angela Stanford

Mark Walker

Boo Weekley

Copyright 2025 WMBF. All rights reserved.

When will it open? What to know about Guy Fieri’s new Myrtle Beach Mall eatery

READ MOREExpand AllThe developers for Guy Fieri’s planned Downtown Flavortown restaurant at the Myrtle Beach Mall provided an update on when the eatery plans to open to the public.The new emporium will look like its sister property in Tennessee that features food, arcade games and a colorful experience that over-stimulates the senses. Demolition on the former JC Penney ...

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The developers for Guy Fieri’s planned Downtown Flavortown restaurant at the Myrtle Beach Mall provided an update on when the eatery plans to open to the public.

The new emporium will look like its sister property in Tennessee that features food, arcade games and a colorful experience that over-stimulates the senses.

Demolition on the former JC Penney site started in early 2025 and has since concluded. A spokesperson for the mall told The Sun News that concrete pouring for the future 50,000-square-foot restaurant should begin in April 2025.

They added that the work should not disrupt parking at the mall site. The spokesperson for the location’s owners said they had no comment when asked about plans for the Myrtle Beach Mall aside from the Downtown Flavortown.

The spokesperson said the restaurant could open in late 2025 or sometime in 2026. The turnaround time on the mall follows the developers’ first announced the Guy Fieri project in October 2024. The location will feature a tiki bar, bowling alley, arcade and other amenities. The Downtown Flavortown restaurant concept is Fieri’s second eatery, the first opening in Tennessee in 2022.

The mall and its future have been sources of interest for Grand Strand locals since selling for $7.8 million in April 2023.

The mall’s previous owner discussed plans to re-develop the property into a mixed-use development, Market Common-esque property in 2019 before its most recent sale. Traditional mall sites serve as ideal locations for mixed-use developments due to the expansive size of the existing properties.

Called ‘The District’, the mall met approval from county officials that re-reviewed the plan.

“Even disgruntled Yankees like to shop,” an engineer working on the project said at the time.

Those efforts never came to fruition, and now a significant portion of the mall resides unoccupied.

The Myrtle Beach Mall’s current ownership group has yet to release any additional plans for the site after completing the Downtown Flavortown.

This story was originally published April 14, 2025 at 5:00 AM.

Get hurt on vacation? Here’s how long Myrtle Beach’s urgent care wait times are

Getting injured or sick on vacation is never fun. And in some places, wait times for urgent cares can be longer than others.Here’s what we know about the local wait times in the Myrtle Beach area.The Care Now Urgent Care is close to downtown Myrtle Beach. On their website, there’s a map of where they are located and how many patients a...

Getting injured or sick on vacation is never fun. And in some places, wait times for urgent cares can be longer than others.

Here’s what we know about the local wait times in the Myrtle Beach area.

The Care Now Urgent Care is close to downtown Myrtle Beach. On their website, there’s a map of where they are located and how many patients are in the cue.

The website also gives options for a virtual appointment and web check-in ahead of a visit.

Doctors Care has seven locations in the Myrtle Beach and Conway region.

“Mondays and Fridays are typically busiest days, normally,” Elena Hicks from Doctors Care said. “We also do scheduling as well, so if you want to call in, you are more than welcome to schedule an appointment instead of having to walk in and wait.”

Hicks said patients can fill out their forms ahead of time and bring them in with them to speed up the process as well. All of the forms can be found on their website.

There’s also a map on their website that shows how many people are in line at each location. It can be found here.

Grand Strand Medical Center is located in Myrtle Beach and they offer an Emergency Department.

On Friday morning as of 10:44 a.m., the hospital showed an average 5 minute wait time for ER patients.

“While there isn’t a specific day or time that is better for the ER, wait time is determined by the amount of people and the severity of the injury,” Presley Leopard, Director of Communications and Community Engagement, said. “It’s always our goal to provide the best patient care as possible as efficiently as we can.”

According to their website, the listed ER wait times represent a four-hour rolling average and are updated every 30 minutes.

Patients can also text “ER” to 32222 for updated information.

Tidelands Health offers another emergency department option in the Grand Strand.

They operate two hospitals, Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital and Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital, with emergency services.

According to the Director of Strategic Communications for Tidelands Health Dawn Bryant, wait times for patients in emergency departments vary based on several factors. She said patients are seen based on the severity of their condition, with the most severe cases seen first.

“In general, our emergency departments are busier in the summer months as the population of our region swells with vacationers and we experience more patients seeking care,” Bryant said. “Year-round, we also generally have more patients seeking care in our emergency departments between noon and 9 p.m.”

Bryant noted that the emergency departments at Tidelands Georgetown Memorial Hospital and Tidelands Waccamaw Community Hospital are staffed with a highly trained and experienced team of physicians, nurses and other medical professionals dedicated to providing high-quality care.

“We remind people to seek the appropriate level of care to help keep wait times in emergency departments down, she said. “For people experiencing non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries, urgent care may be a good option.”

The Sun News

828-237-1377

Elizabeth covers local government and politics in Myrtle Beach and holds truth to power as the accountability reporter. She’s lived in five states and holds a masters degree in Journalism.

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