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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 Myrtle Beach Colored School Museum and Education Center in Myrtle Beach, SC 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

“Professional, caring, and reliable at home service.”

Tom C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Amazing place and they do a wonderful job.”

Tiffany H.
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“The caregivers at Always Best Care are friendly, reliable, and truly care about their clients. They make daily life easier and more comfortable for seniors.”

Jacob J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has helped our family tremendously. With the care they provide we have been able to keep my dad in his home. He is a total care client and they have gone above and beyond to meet our needs the best way they can. Not to say we haven't had some trials with schedules and caregivers getting sick or family emergencies, that is to be expected, but they are consistently meeting the needs the best way thay can. Thank you Always Best Care for what you have done for our family the last almost 3 years!”

Sheri S.
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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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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.

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 in Myrtle Beach, SC 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

This SC beach named one of most deadly in the nation. Here’s why it’s on list

With Labor Day approaching as one of the last summer beach weekends in Myrtle Beach, visitors should be cautious of rip currents.Myrtle Beach tied as the fourth-deadliest beach for recorded surf zone deaths in the last 10 years, according to a study from a lawsuit loan company, Uplift Legal Finding.Myrtle Beach had 13 recorded surf-zone deaths, with seven directly attributed to rip currents.Surf zone deaths include deaths from rip currents, high surf or a “sneaker” wave. The study analyzed data from the Natio...

With Labor Day approaching as one of the last summer beach weekends in Myrtle Beach, visitors should be cautious of rip currents.

Myrtle Beach tied as the fourth-deadliest beach for recorded surf zone deaths in the last 10 years, according to a study from a lawsuit loan company, Uplift Legal Finding.

Myrtle Beach had 13 recorded surf-zone deaths, with seven directly attributed to rip currents.

Surf zone deaths include deaths from rip currents, high surf or a “sneaker” wave. The study analyzed data from the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to determine which beaches were the most dangerous to swimmers from 2016 to 2025.

The total does not include the death of Derrick Moore, a Georgia man who drowned on Aug. 7 while saving a young girl from a rip current.

Horry County tied for seventh nationally, with 19 deaths across three of its beaches. Within the 10 years, 895 recorded surf zone deaths occurred across the nation.

Beaches with the most recorded surf zone deaths:

Watch for beach flags at lifeguard stands

A green flag means there are low hazards for rip currents. Conditions are calm, but still exercise caution. A yellow flag means there are moderate risks for rip currents.

A red flag is flown when the surf becomes strong and there are hazardous conditions. A double red flag closes the water to the public, as conditions have become extremely unsafe.

A blue or purple flag indicated dangerous marine life nearby, like stingrays or jellyfish.

How to stay safe in rip currents

Rip current advisories and beach hazard statements are often issued by the National Weather Service. Rip currents occur when incoming waves pile at the surf zone, forcing the retreating water to take a path of least resistance back through the surf, which is usually a sandbar.

Rip currents can take even a strong swimmer away from the shore quickly, and account for over 80% of rescues performed by beach lifeguards.

The National Weather Service advises these safety rules when caught in a rip current:

Vacationing in SC? How to know if your hotel is clean before booking a room

Millions of tourists make their way to Myrtle Beach each year.That means most of them are looking for a place to stay while on vacation.Generally, when booking a hotel or resort, there is the expectation of clean rooms, amenities that work and a safe environment. But in South Carolina who makes sure that those standards are met?There is no state agency that regularly inspects lodging, leaving the responsibility of sorting out the good from the bad to consumers.So how do you find out where is the best place to stay...

Millions of tourists make their way to Myrtle Beach each year.

That means most of them are looking for a place to stay while on vacation.

Generally, when booking a hotel or resort, there is the expectation of clean rooms, amenities that work and a safe environment. But in South Carolina who makes sure that those standards are met?

There is no state agency that regularly inspects lodging, leaving the responsibility of sorting out the good from the bad to consumers.

So how do you find out where is the best place to stay?

Largely, potential guests are left to conducting research about hotels and motels online, scouring reviews and by word of mouth.

“Our advice to visitors is to compare recent reviews and guest photos across more than one platform before booking, looking for patterns rather than one-off comments and noting how management responds,” Diane Charno with Visit Myrtle Beach said by email. “Call the property to confirm the total cost, cancellation terms, housekeeping arrangements and who to contact during your stay. For condos and vacation homes, booking through an established local rental management company means there’s a team on the ground if something isn’t right.”

Charno also suggests guests take a few minutes to check the room, including the bed, linens and upholstered furniture, before unpacking. “If something’s wrong, tell management right away and ask for a resolution, including a different room if needed. Reputable operators want the chance to make it right,” Charno said.

There are some places that can offer additional help with the search. Here’s where you can go to get information about where you are staying from those agencies that do conduct inspections.

What does South Carolina law require?

State law has certain safety requirements for hotels, motels and other lodgings, but the law does not specifically outline mandates for cleanliness or hygiene standards.

Safety requirements include:

How to review complaints filed

Probably one of the most helpful tools when searching for information about lodging or businesses is the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs website.

Here, people can search for a hotel or motel by name and find out what complaints have been filed against the business. Each complaint lists the date it was filed and what it was for.

Hotel restaurants are inspected

Hotels and motels are regularly inspected by the state for such things as food service and pools.

If a hotel has a restaurant or other food service, the South Carolina Department of Agriculture conducts inspections, providing a scoring system based on violations or other items.

Restaurants receive grades based on restaurants scoring between 88 and 100 points A grades, restaurants scoring 78-87 points B grades and restaurants scoring 77 points or fewer C grades.

Consumers can check the state Department of Agriculture’s site to look up any permitted restaurant along the Grand Strand, including those in hotels or motels.

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services also conducts inspections on lodging pools, hot tubs or other water amenities such as lazy rivers to ensure safety, non contamination and proper chemical levels.

Local governments conduct safety checks

While local governments do not conduct room-to-room inspections for cleanliness or hygiene, some city offices, such as Myrtle Beach’s Construction Services Department, operate on a “complaint-driven basis,” said City of Myrtle Beach spokesperson Meredith Denari by email.

An example would be if the city received a complaint about property cleanliness, construction services staff would investigate the concern and determine if any action is warranted based on their findings, Denari said.

In addition, the city fire marshal’s office does routine inspections for safety issues, she said.

Where to find a list of hotels, motels

The Myrtle Beach area has 425 hotels with 157,000 room units, according to the Myrtle Beach Area Convention and Visitor Bureau.

The Myrtle Beach Area Hospitality Association web page, as well as the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce lodging directory provide a list of hotels, motels and other places to stay.

Annual Jeep Jam is Headed Back to Myrtle Beach

The 7th Annual Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam, presented by Myrtle Beach Chrysler Jeep, is back from October 25-27, 2024 at the former Myrtle Square Mall site, located at 2501 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC.This three-day, action-packed event will transform the heart of the Grand Strand into a Jeep-lover’s paradise. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast, a die-hard Jeep fan, or a family seeking weekend fun, the Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam has something for everyone!Drawing over 30,000 attendees each year, the Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam ...

The 7th Annual Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam, presented by Myrtle Beach Chrysler Jeep, is back from October 25-27, 2024 at the former Myrtle Square Mall site, located at 2501 N Kings Hwy, Myrtle Beach, SC.

This three-day, action-packed event will transform the heart of the Grand Strand into a Jeep-lover’s paradise. Whether you’re an off-road enthusiast, a die-hard Jeep fan, or a family seeking weekend fun, the Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam has something for everyone!

Drawing over 30,000 attendees each year, the Myrtle Beach Jeep Jam blends off-road thrills with coastal charm, offering an unforgettable experience for Jeep enthusiasts and families alike. With hundreds of Jeeps decorated for Halloween, the festive spirit will be woven throughout the entire weekend.

Tickets & Registration Options

Spectator tickets are available now at for just $10, and kids get in free! Tickets are valid for one person for one day. Want to dive deeper into the action? Jeep Registration starts at $75, which includes 3 days of Jeep parking, a wristband for 3-day admission, a swag bag, and an official event T-shirt. For just $10 more, enjoy unlimited runs on the Obstacle Course and Mud Pit!

Epic Halloween and Jeep Jam-Themed Parties!

As the sun sets, the Jeep Jam fun continues with Halloween and Jeep Jam-themed parties each night! Whether you’re in costume or sporting your favorite Jeep gear, these parties are the perfect way to keep the excitement rolling after dark. Join fellow Jeepers for lively evenings filled with great food, refreshing drinks, and entertainment at our partner restaurants. Whether you’re winding down after a day of off-road action or meeting new friends in the Jeep community, these gatherings are the perfect way to end your day.

Be sure to join in, grab a bite, raise a glass, and keep the Jeep Jam spirit going long into the night!

SC business leaders unveil economic roadmap, cite workforce and housing concerns

MYRTLE BEACH, SC. (WPDE) — South Carolina business leaders gathering in Myrtle Beach on Tuesday said the state’s rapid growth will fall short if roads, housing and the workforce can’t keep pace.South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce presented a new 10-year economic roadmap, Blueprint 2036, and asked local business leaders what needs to change to keep the state competitive with neighboring states.MORE: RECAP: DAY 4 of trial for Horry Co. woman charged in death of 11-year-oldThe plan f...

MYRTLE BEACH, SC. (WPDE) — South Carolina business leaders gathering in Myrtle Beach on Tuesday said the state’s rapid growth will fall short if roads, housing and the workforce can’t keep pace.

South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce presented a new 10-year economic roadmap, Blueprint 2036, and asked local business leaders what needs to change to keep the state competitive with neighboring states.

MORE: RECAP: DAY 4 of trial for Horry Co. woman charged in death of 11-year-old

The plan focuses on five areas: business climate, workforce development, infrastructure, rural opportunities and innovation.

Matt Pivarnick, CEO of the Greater Myrtle Beach Collaborative, said the plan’s emphasis on expanding opportunity while addressing obstacles stood out.

“The fact that they're talking about diversifying the economy in the state, creating more high-knowledge, high-wage jobs in the state, but also leaning into some of the things that are an impediment to that,” Pivarnick said.

Those impediments include finding qualified workers and ensuring communities have the infrastructure to support continued growth. During the Myrtle Beach presentation, local business leaders highlighted traffic congestion and other infrastructure issues as top concerns for the Grand Strand’s economic future.

MORE: Myrtle Beach to install accessible beach mat, 4 beach wheelchair rental lockers

“The most common response here, I'd say two-fold. One, infrastructure challenges, their traffic congestion being a number one issue. So, you know, looking at different ways to mitigate those,” said Will Frierson, vice president of government affairs for South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce.

The discussion also raised questions about how the state will pay for the infrastructure needed to support growth. Blueprint 2036 calls for long-term, recurring investments in roads, bridges, and water and sewer systems, rather than relying on one-time spending.

“We've seen significant dollars poured into those in the past ten years. But that doesn't make up for decades of underinvestment,” Frierson said.

The plan also addresses workforce participation and preparation for available jobs, including barriers such as childcare, affordable housing and transportation.

MORE: Halloween 2026: Trick-or-treating hours vary across the Grand Strand and Pee Dee

“In this community, childcare remains a significant problem. Things like lack of affordable housing and transportation are all barriers to workforce participation,” Frierson said.

South Carolina Manufacturers and Commerce said feedback from communities such as Myrtle Beach will help shape its legislative agenda and advocacy priorities for the upcoming session, with the goal of turning local concerns into policy recommendations aimed at attracting businesses, creating higher-paying jobs and keeping up with growing communities.

Blueprint 2036 is intended to guide the state’s economic priorities through the next decade.

Do you live near a nuclear plant in SC? One may be closer than you think

South Carolina is one of the most nuclear-reliant states for energy production, ranking third in the nation in 2025.Over half of the state’s electricity was powered from nuclear plants in 2025. There are four operational nuclear plants in South Carolina and three in bordering states within 50 miles of state lines.South Carolina is also home to one of the most notable nuclear waste sites in the nation. Horry County is one of the few coastal states within 50 miles of a nuclear plant, but it’s not in South Carolina....

South Carolina is one of the most nuclear-reliant states for energy production, ranking third in the nation in 2025.

Over half of the state’s electricity was powered from nuclear plants in 2025. There are four operational nuclear plants in South Carolina and three in bordering states within 50 miles of state lines.

South Carolina is also home to one of the most notable nuclear waste sites in the nation. Horry County is one of the few coastal states within 50 miles of a nuclear plant, but it’s not in South Carolina.

Living near a nuclear plant doesn’t inherently mean risk of dangerous radiation exposure, but there are specific plans in place in case of an emergency.

Living within 50 miles of a nuclear power plant exposes someone to an average radiation dose of about 0.01 millirem per year. The average person in the United States receives an exposure of 300 millirem per year from natural sources of radiation, according to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division has plans in place in case of a plant emergency or failure. Here’s what residents should know about nuclear plants impacting South Carolina.

How does nuclear energy work?

Nuclear plants generate electricity from nuclear reactors. Uranium atoms split in a process called fission, which generates an immense amount of heat energy.

The heat boils water and creates steam, which turns turbines to generate power. Products from the fission process are contained and managed as radioactive materials.

Where are the nuclear plants in South Carolina?

Nuclear plants impact every South Carolina county except five coastal counties, including Georgetown, Charleston, Beaufort, Berkeley and Dorchester counties.

The four nuclear plants in the state are located in Oconee, York, Fairfield and Darlington counties. There are two nuclear waste facilities in the state.

The Savanah River Site, spanning 310 square miles across Aiken, Allendale and Barnwell counties, is a nuclear waste facility managed by the U.S. Department of Energy. Its original purpose was to produce plutonium and tritium for nuclear weapon production during the Cold War Period in the 1950s, but now it focuses on environmental management and research.

The Chem-Nuclear Site, also in Barnwell County, is a low-level radioactive waste disposal facility. It is monitored by the South Carolina Department of Environmental Services, and only accepts waste from South Carolina, Connecticut and New Jersey.

The Vogtle Electric Generating Plant in Waynesboro, Georgia, comes within 50 miles of seven South Carolina counties. The McGuire Nuclear Station in Huntersville, North Carolina, reaches within 50 miles of four South Carolina counties, and the Brunswick Nuclear Plant in Southport, North Carolina, is within 50 miles of the northeast corner of Horry County.

The most congested area for nuclear power plants in the state is in Lancaster County, where there are four nuclear plants within 50 miles of portions of the county.

What happens in the event of a nuclear emergency?

Nuclear plants have two types of planning zones, an emergency planning zone (10-mile range) and an ingestion pathway zone (50-mile range). The emergency planning zone is where residents within the zone could be at risk for direct exposure to radiation in the event of an emergency.

The ingestion pathway zone is monitored for indirect exposure, including if radiation contaminated food and crops. There is no immediate response required from residents, and there is a low-likelihood of radiation particles traveling beyond 50 miles.

Nuclear plants declare warnings for four different levels of response in order of least to most threatening. According to Duke Energy, which hosts three of the four nuclear plants in the state, the responses occur as follows:

There are various responses to each level of emergency, and the South Carolina Operational Radiological Emergency Response Plan details the required steps for the nuclear plant, state emergency response teams and local response teams.

There hasn’t been a major emergency from any of the nuclear plants impacting the state, but there have been a handful of lower level emergency response declarations that did not stem from public radiation exposure.

The State reported earlier this year that plant workers at the V.C. Summer Nuclear Station failed to maintain critical safety equipment for nearly a decade, an issue that has since been resolved.

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