It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.
However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Indian Village site 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 Oak Forest, IL is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“Teagan, it has brought me so much joy and comfort knowing that my Mom has”
“I again want to compliment Shannon on her fine work as my uncle's caregiver. She”
“I again want to compliment Shannon on her fine work as my uncle's caregiver. She is”
“Want to recognize Jeff for his kind, empathetic communication on the phone trying to help”
“Dear Jeff, I’m sorry this note is so late in arriving. I just wanted to say”
“I recently worked with Michelle Kramer at Always Best Care. I would recommend Michelle to”
“We want to thank you all for all the help over the last 5 months”
“We want to thank you all for all the help over the last 5 months And”
“I believe when someone does an outstanding job they deserve recognition. My mom has two”
“I believe when someone does an outstanding job they deserve recognition. My mom has two”
“i had no idea where to even start looking for a memory care facility for”
“I have recommend ABC Senior Services to several clients and have always received great feedback.”
“We cannot say enough about our experience with the team at Always Best Care, Chicagoland.”
“Setup a caretaker from Always Best for my Grandpa. The representative John that helped me”
“I can't say enough good things about EVERYONE at Always Best Care Senior Services in”
“The care provided by Always Best Care senior Services was better than could ever be”
“I have seen this team serve local clients with great care and compassion. Matt and”
“The caregivers are terrific. They are also very nice people. The management is professional and”
“ABC responded rapidly and with competency and compassion to an urgent family care need. With”
“ABC was a godsend helping to take care of our dear father. Owner Matt and”
“They take a personal touch. The owner Matt is awesome. He came to our home”
“They take a personal touch. The owner Matt is awesome. He came to our home”
“Matt and his team were first rate. Our family was extremely pleased with ABC.”
“I am a past client of this provider I got Always Best Care of Chicagoland &”
“This company is the best. The owner Matt showed me a whole new definition to”
“Our family worked with ABC to provide first just nighttime caregivers, but eventually 24/7 caregivers”
“We hired a care giver for a night to help me at my daughters wedding”
“If you are looking for a home care company that is caring and responsive to”
“ABC was very responsive to our situation and came through for us quickly. They communicated”
“Always Best Care was more like a family member than a service. Matt, the owner,”
“I called to get help for my aunt. I needed someone to help out on”
“Great experience with this agency. Very caring and compassionate. Very responsive to communication when changes”
“Always Best Care Senior Services or DuPage, IL., was a life saver and I would”
“They are wonderful. Best caregivers. We loved all the ones that came into our home”
“It took me a long time to decide to have a stranger in my house”
“They've been caring for my father-in-law for over a year and I'd be lost without”
“Caring, tireless effort to accommodate our needs.”
“ABC provided wonderful service to our loved one and this kindness extended to our family”
“I would like to thank all the people who work for abc. Everybody took the”
“They are wonderful. Best caregivers. We loved all the ones that came into our home”
“I had a great experience with Best Care. The lady who took care of me”
“Always Best Care Senior Services or DuPage, IL., was a life saver and I would”
“They've been caring for my father-in-law for over a year and I'd be lost without”
“It took me a long time to decide to have a stranger in my house”
“I have been an employee of Always Best Care for the past 6 months ,and”
“I love working at Always Best Care. The staff goes out of their way to”
“We had an unexpected need to assist a family member on very short notice smack”
“Helped my father in law get healthy .”
“Dave and his staff go above and beyond with their care. They all take special”
“ABC was able to provide me with a caregiver within the same day of me”
“Teagan, it has brought me so much joy and comfort knowing that my Mom has a caregiver such as yourself, who has consistently been working with her. I am so grateful you are still available to work with her during the times she is living with me and my family. Thank you for all that you do!”
“I again want to compliment Shannon on her fine work as my uncle's caregiver. She truly came from above. Today is his 92nd Birthday and I can't be there, but she has made the day special for him with cake and small gifts. She also keeps close tabs on his failing health and coordinates his care excellently. She goes above and beyond what would be expected. I don't know Rihanna as well, but she, too, sounds like she cares for my uncle in a kind and positive way. My uncle can be demanding and cranky and they both do a good job maintaining an upbeat attitude. Last but not least, I appreciate Ana for juggling so many clients and caregivers, which in our own situation seem to change on a dime, yet she always comes through. Thanks again”
“I again want to compliment Shannon on her fine work as my uncle's caregiver. She is truly heaven-sent. Today is his 92nd Birthday and I can't be there, but she has made the day special for him with cake and small gifts. She also keeps close tabs on his failing health and coordinates his care excellently. She goes above and beyond what would be expected. I don't know Rihanna as well, but she, too, sounds like she cares for my uncle in a kind and positive way. My uncle can be demanding and cranky and they both do a good job maintaining an upbeat attitude. Finally, I appreciate Ana for juggling so many clients and caregivers, which in our own situation seem to change on a dime, yet she always comes through. Thanks again”
“Want to recognize Jeff for his kind, empathetic communication on the phone trying to help us with our wheelchair bound friend. The medical system leaves disabled people behind to fend for themselves. Jeff is really trying to work with us to provide some kind of care for our friend who can't help himself. Jeff makes the world a happier place. Thank you Jeff and Always Best!”
“Dear Jeff, I’m sorry this note is so late in arriving. I just wanted to say how much I appreciated all your help during this very trying time in our lives. The people that came and helped care for Mickey were kind, thoughtful and loving. He was treated with dignity and respect, he deserved that. Thank you for that and please pass on my regards to all that enriched our lives. It was much appreciated.”
“I recently worked with Michelle Kramer at Always Best Care. I would recommend Michelle to anyone who is navigating Senior care for their loved one. Michelle is so knowledgeable as she has been in the industry for so long. She helped me to find places to move my dad, she knew all the answers to the hard questions that I had. Michelle was just amazing and I literally could not have moved my dad recently without her help. I also used their care facilities in July when I moved my dad to his first memory care facility to help him transition. Their caregivers were great and they were so flexible with the times that I needed someone with my dad.”
“We want to thank you all for all the help over the last 5 months And we recognize there is a chance we will need help again in the future. Jeff pls thank Virgie, Tia and the rest of the team Everyone was fantastic!!”
“We want to thank you all for all the help over the last 5 months And we recognize there is a chance we will need help again in the future. Jeff pls thank Virgie, Tia and the rest of the team Everyone was fantastic!!”
“I believe when someone does an outstanding job they deserve recognition. My mom has two excellent care givers. I stop by my moms one to two times a week. My mom and her house are well cared for each time I stop by. Most often they don't know I am coming, so I know she is receiving wonderful care all the time. My mom has dementia and she realizes that she can't remember most things. It is a large weight off my mind knowing that I couldn't ask for better caregivers. Felicia and Sadie are to be commended for the wonderful job they do taking care of my mom.”
“I believe when someone does an outstanding job they deserve recognition. My mom has two excellent care givers. I stop by my moms one to two times a week. My mom and her house are well cared for each time I stop by. Most often they don't know I am coming, so I know she is receiving wonderful care all the time. My mom has dementia and she realizes that she can't remember most things. It is a large weight off my mind knowing that I couldn't ask for better caregivers. Felicia and Sadie are to be commended for the wonderful job they do taking care of my mom.”
“i had no idea where to even start looking for a memory care facility for my husband. Matt Friscia was extremely helpful and immediately put me at ease, asking about my situation, my husband's level of alzheimers and my budget. i was so relieved when he provided me with several possible facilities. i was lucky enough to ultimately decide on the first place on the list. My husband is receiving excellent care now and i have peace of mind that i chose the best place!”
“I have recommend ABC Senior Services to several clients and have always received great feedback. Matt and team are always professional, efficient, and go above and beyond to care for my Seniors. Very dependable!”
“We cannot say enough about our experience with the team at Always Best Care, Chicagoland. It gave us so much peace to know the great care our Uncle was receiving during a very difficult time. If you live in the Chicagoland area and are looking for excellent, in home care services for a loved one, you cannot go wrong with the team at Always Best Care! First class operation!”
“Setup a caretaker from Always Best for my Grandpa. The representative John that helped me out was knowledgeable and made everything very easy to get going. The caretaker Linda that they sent out has been great, very personable and friendly! Don't know what we would have done without her help.”
“I can't say enough good things about EVERYONE at Always Best Care Senior Services in Lombard. Matt, the Caregiver Aides and ALL the support staff cared for my two 99 year old Alzheimer stricken parents as if they were their parents. EVERYONE is extremely dedicated, knowledgeable and worked tirelessly to care for my very elderly parents whenever things changed, which was most of the time. You can trust them 100% with the care of your family members. Also, their fees are very reasonable.”
“The care provided by Always Best Care senior Services was better than could ever be expected. They truly care about the care of my Mom and her well being. Matt and his team always went beyond what could reasonably be expected to assist with my Mom's care. I feel vary lucky to have found Always Best Care Senior Services for My Mom's care and highly recommend them to any one looking for this type of help for a loved one.”
“I have seen this team serve local clients with great care and compassion. Matt and his team of professionals are VERY responsive and ready to problem-solve on behalf of patients. Whether planning ahead, or in a pinch, this is a team worth considering for your loved one’s care.”
“The caregivers are terrific. They are also very nice people. The management is professional and conscientious. I highly recommend them”
“ABC responded rapidly and with competency and compassion to an urgent family care need. With gratitude- Jeannine Forrest, PhD, RN”
“ABC was a godsend helping to take care of our dear father. Owner Matt and his team are very professional, supportive and caring. I highly recommend this company if anyone needs help with a loved one.”
“They take a personal touch. The owner Matt is awesome. He came to our home in the beginning and answered all of our questions and some we didn’t even know we had. He keeps in tough and is easily accessible. The caregivers are all very professional and warm. Virgie our caregiver became one of the family. It is truly a warm wonderful company. If you need to use a caregiver I highly recommend ABC.”
“They take a personal touch. The owner Matt is awesome. He came to our home in the beginning and answered all of our questions and some we didn’t even know we had. He keeps in tough and is easily accessible. The caregivers are all very professional and warm. Virgie our caregiver became one of the family. It is truly a warm wonderful company. If you need to use a caregiver I highly recommend ABC.”
“Matt and his team were first rate. Our family was extremely pleased with ABC.”
“I am a past client of this provider I got Always Best Care of Chicagoland & South Suburbs last December. They help in light meal prep, housekeeping, getting my mail, taking out the garbage can, washing the dishes, and changing my sheets. The caregiver was excellent, phenomenal, and always on time. I can't say enough about her. I only had her 2 days a week, Tuesday and Friday.”
“This company is the best. The owner Matt showed me a whole new definition to what family really means. There are way too many compliments to list. The name I want to give to his company and staff is “Making a difference in Families”. Thank you Matt and to your staff for taking care of mine. Mariella”
“Our family worked with ABC to provide first just nighttime caregivers, but eventually 24/7 caregivers for our father. ABC provided well-trained caregivers who were competent, personable and friendly. Management was attentive, flexible and responsive to our needs as they changed over time. We were very pleased with their services.”
“We hired a care giver for a night to help me at my daughters wedding I’m in a wheelchair we had Chris who helped me get dressed and get around at the wedding then when we got home he helped my wife get into the house and get me situated for the night my wife asked if we needed him again would he be ok if we asked for him again he said absolutely we would use them again”
“If you are looking for a home care company that is caring and responsive to your needs, Always Best Care is the company for you! Matt was professional, honest and genuinely concerned about meeting our needs in caring for our mom. Her actual caregiver, Debbie, was fantastic. As a health care professional myself with high standards I can honestly say I was beyond pleased with ABC.”
“ABC was very responsive to our situation and came through for us quickly. They communicated with us well and updated us regularly. I would recommend ABC”
“Always Best Care was more like a family member than a service. Matt, the owner, was kind, supportive and flexible with all needs and requests. His responsiveness to my requests was immediate. The caregivers were caring and trustworthy. Both Matt and the caregivers were attentive to my friends needs and concerns. My friend was extremely anxious about strangers coming into his house to provide care. Always Best Care made it so easy for my friend to quickly adapt because they are so personable and attentive.”
“I called to get help for my aunt. I needed someone to help out on the weekends. They were able to get someone immediately . Then shortly after that I needed someone more weekday hours as well. They immediately had someone to come out and help. Matt, the owner, was kind, supportive and flexible in all my requests and everything couldn't of worked out any better. The caretakers were caring and took great care of my aunt who was in a wheelchair. I truly could not have gotten through all this without Matt and Always Best Care.”
“Great experience with this agency. Very caring and compassionate. Very responsive to communication when changes were necessary. Always has the clients best interest in mind. Personally get involved with their clients. Highly recommend!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services or DuPage, IL., was a life saver and I would recommend using their services...Art who was sent to help take care of my father for a very important event was prompt, considerate , friendly and took excellent care of my father helping him get ready for his son's, my brothers wedding.. Thank you ABC...”
“They are wonderful. Best caregivers. We loved all the ones that came into our home especially Rosa and Rochelle. They took very care of me at a difficult time. My daughter is recovering nicelyy.”
“It took me a long time to decide to have a stranger in my house to care for my husband Keith. When I started calling for care services I was skeptical. . Then I called Always Best Care and from the first conversation I knew they were perfect. My experience with everyone I encountered was like we were family. They are as caring as a family member could be for me and Keith. I now have an extended family not just a care giver service.”
“They've been caring for my father-in-law for over a year and I'd be lost without their help. Their caregivers are so caring and helpful; they don't just do their job, they go above and beyond to ensure the best care. I highly recommend them for your care needs.”
“Caring, tireless effort to accommodate our needs.”
“ABC provided wonderful service to our loved one and this kindness extended to our family as well. The staff was professional, compassionate and went well above and beyond. Thank you so much for helping us through a difficult time. I most highly recommend this company of wonderful people serving our precious elderly loved ones.”
“I would like to thank all the people who work for abc. Everybody took the best care of my mother-in-law at her time of need. I would like to recommend them to anybody in need of in home care for your loved one. They all were the best people you could ask for when the family needed them. Thanks again!!!”
“They are wonderful. Best caregivers. We loved all the ones that came into our home especially Rosa and Rochelle. They took very care of me at a difficult time. My daughter is recovering nucelyy.”
“I had a great experience with Best Care. The lady who took care of me after surgery was wonderful. She was helpful, nice and very caring. I will definitely use their services in the future if I need them again. And I will ask for the same caregiver. Thank you Always Best Care Chicagoland.”
“Always Best Care Senior Services or DuPage, IL., was a life saver and I would recommend using their services...Art who was sent to help take care of my father for a very important event was prompt, considerate , friendly and took excellent care of my father helping him get ready for his son's, my brothers wedding.. Thank you ABC... Scott”
“They've been caring for my father-in-law for over a year and I'd be lost without their help. Their caregivers are so caring and helpful; they don't just do their job, they go above and beyond to ensure the best care. I highly recommend them for your care needs.”
“It took me a long time to decide to have a stranger in my house to care for my husband Keith. When I started calling for care services I was skeptical. . Then I called Always Best Care and from the first conversation I knew they were perfect. My experience with everyone I encountered was like we were family. They are as caring as a family member could be for me and Keith. I now have an extended family not just a care giver service. Kathleen Carlson”
“I have been an employee of Always Best Care for the past 6 months ,and I love how professional they are ..”
“I love working at Always Best Care. The staff goes out of their way to help you in any situation.”
“We had an unexpected need to assist a family member on very short notice smack dab in the middle of the holidays. Matt did an awesome job assessing our needs and getting the resources in place”
“Helped my father in law get healthy .”
“Dave and his staff go above and beyond with their care. They all take special interest with their clients. Also a very helpful resource in future planning and current ideas. Trust your parents to these people - they will not let you down.”
“ABC was able to provide me with a caregiver within the same day of me being discharged from the ER. Their caregiver was very caring, compassionate, and went above and beyond my expectations. Having someone from their team in my home allowed for my family to move forward with their daily activities while knowing I was safe. I highly recommend their agency.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Oak Forest,IL Don Gorman Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Jack Gibbons Gardens or visit Oak Forest Heritage Preserve, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Oak Forest, IL, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.
Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.
At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Oak Forest, IL understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Oak Forest, IL 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.
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.SchoolsThe program recognizes over 90,000 high-performing students to help open opportunities for their future.Bremen High School District 228, Community ContributorMidlothian, IL – Students in Bremen High School District 228 ...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Bremen High School District 228, Community Contributor
Midlothian, IL – Students in Bremen High School District 228 earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Program. The programs celebrate the hard work of thousands of high school students nationwide to help them showcase their strong academic performance.
For the first time, the academic honors recognize first-generation students, in addition to rural and small town, Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic/or Latino students. The program opens college access for more students because many institutions use the awards for their recruitment efforts.At Bremen High School, 19 students were awarded. At Tinley Park High School, 8 students were awarded. Hillcrest High School had 24 students who were awarded.Oak Forest High School had 10 students.
Bremen’s award recipients are: Kaitlyn Blomfeldt, Frida Bocanegra Macias, Dulce Camargo, Cassidy Carten, Yoseline De La Rosa, Christopher DeHaas, Devyn Ferguson, Jacen Gertos, Juan Gomez, Asia Hawkins, Nataly Hernandez, Kamaya Johnson, Yoselin Martinez, Bailee McFall, Jonathan Murzyn, Jennifer Negrete, Andrik Rios, Johanna Telles, and Cristian Zarate.
“We are extremely proud of our students and the commitment that they have shown to academic success,” said Bremen High School Principal Dr. Jessica Rucinski. “The students that are being recognized this year have demonstrated achievement both in the classroom and on College Board assessments. The future is bright for each of these students and we appreciate the College Board's recognition of their efforts!”
Tinley Park High School’s recipients are Cayden Booker, Alexis Burke, Betzaira Castaneda, Alejandro Cordero, Berenice Hernandez, Samantha Hesse, Najlaa Mansour, and Monserrath Montoya.
“The students and staff at Tinley Park High School are incredibly proud of our students who received College Board Recognition,” said Dr. Theresa Nolan, principal of Tinley Park High School. “ Their achievement highlights the academic opportunities that are available to all of our Titan students. We wish all of our Titans continued academic success!”
Hillcrest High School’s recipients are: Olivia Alexander, Serenity Arrington, Pashance Booth, Johnel Brown, Emily Corona, Daniel Davalos, Olamilekan Fabamigbe, Kenneth Francis, Journey Giddens, Sema J Grover, Liyah Jackson, Breyanah Lewis, Ariyah Lowery, Isabella Marshall, Caimora Montgomery, Ashani Moore, Julius Nicholson, Michael Okechukwu, Cydney Perry, Makayla Rupert, Micah Scott, Sosha Williams, Sidney Yancy, and Ariana Zaragoza.
“Congratulations to the Hillcrest Hawks for their amazing academic achievements and recognition,” said Principal Ron Towner. “The Hillcrest community is so proud of all of your accomplishments. Each of you have put in the work to be great in the classroom and your efforts have paid off. Keep up the great work and we're looking forward to all you are able to accomplish in the future.”
Oak Forest High School’s recipients are: Savario Arvia, Scarlett Berrios, Emilia Dobrzyn, Jocelyn Esparza, Armeiah Girgis, Jordyn Klusacek, Jennifer Komolafe, Peter Maka, Ethan Nutile, and Iyobosa Odiase.
“Oak Forest High School is thrilled to have the College Board recognize 10 of our students through the National Recognition Program,” said Principal Jane Dempsey. “This program recognizes outstanding Black, Hispanic, and First Generation students for their outstanding academic achievements. Congratulations on this recognition.”
Eligible students must meet the following criteria to qualify:· Earn a GPA of B+ (equal to at least 3.3 or 87%-89%) or higher.· PSAT/NMSQT or PSAT 10 assessment scores that are within the top 10% of assessment takers in each state for each award program or earned a score of 3 or higher on 2 or more AP Exams by the end of 10th grade.· Attend school in a rural area or small town, or identify as African American/Black, Hispanic American/Latino, Indigenous/Native American, or a first-generation college student.The program expanded this year to include a fifth award. Over 35,000 students nationwide received the inaugural National First-Generation Recognition Program Award.Every year, students can verify their eligibility on BigFuture® during their sophomore or junior year. At the start of the next school year, students receive their awards for their communities to celebrate them and colleges to recruit them as they head back to school for their junior or senior year. Thousands of nonprofit colleges and organizations using College Board’s Student Search Service™ can connect with awardees during the recruitment process to share more about their postsecondary programs.
“This year, the National Recognition Programs are recognizing more students than ever so that the outstanding academic abilities of more than 90,000 deserving students are not overlooked as they plan for their future,” said Amy Reitz, senior vice president of BigFuture at College Board. “We’re proud to support colleges and universities that are committed to supporting all students, and our program offers one way they can strengthen their recruitment efforts to students that will thrive on their campus.”
About Bremen High School District 228Bremen High School District 228 is located in the southwest suburbs of Chicago and serves the communities of Midlothian, Posen, Tinley Park, Markham, Hazel Crest, Country Club Hills and Oak Forest. District 228 serves over 5,000 students and employs 800 full and part-time staff members. Bremen High School, in Midlothian, opened its doors to students in September of 1953. Since then, District 228 opened three additional schools. Tinley Park High School opened in 1961; Hillcrest High School, in Country Club Hills, opened in 1967; and Oak Forest High School opened in 1970. For more information, please visit https://www.bhsd228.com/
"Hearts of Heroes" debuts Sunday, Oct. 20, and features a special experience between the teen, a local nonprofit, and her favorite TV star. Lauren Traut, Patch Staff|Updated Fri, Oct 18, 2024 at 10:32 am CTCHICAGO — An area teen enduring a cancer fight—and the Oak Forest-based nonprofit rallying around her—will shine under a national spotlight Sunday, as they're featured in a show airing on ...
Lauren Traut, Patch Staff
|Updated Fri, Oct 18, 2024 at 10:32 am CT
CHICAGO — An area teen enduring a cancer fight—and the Oak Forest-based nonprofit rallying around her—will shine under a national spotlight Sunday, as they're featured in a show airing on ABC7.
Fourteen-year-old Reyna Arreguin, of Cicero, has felt her world turn upside down since a pancreatic cancer diagnosis just months ago. Nonprofit Project Fire Buddies—a volunteer-led effort by local fire departments to show support for children battling critical illness and their families—stepped in, taking Reyna under their wing in an attempt to lift her spirits.
And it worked.
Their efforts and a sweet celebrity surprise for Reyna will be shared nationwide Sunday, Oct. 20, in a show titled "Hearts of Heroes," set to air at 4:30 p.m. on ABC7.
Invited into the TV world of NBC's "Chicago Fire," Reyna was surprised by her favorite actor David Eigenberg (known as “Herrmann” on the show) at her home, and he welcomed her to the set for a behind-the-scenes look. The show captures the heartwarming encounter, and the joy it brought Reyna amidst the stress of her battle.
"She was so happy," her mother Nancy Anacleto told Patch. "Everything else went out the window."
Reyna was diagnosed in February after experiencing pain in her stomach. Initially mistaken for gastritis, an ultrasound would later show a large mass on her pancreas. Within two weeks, she underwent surgery to remove her gallbladder, part of her small intestine and a large portion of her pancreas.
"... the tumor was so massive," Anacleto said. "Luckily, they were able to take out all the cancer cells around it. They had to re-arrange her stomach and her intestines. Reroute everything."
In the week after the surgery, Reyna was hospitalized, and unable to eat. It was then she got hooked on "Chicago Fire," binge-watching episodes and growing attached to the characters.
"She fell in love with the show," Anacleto said,"and she’s been watching it ever since."
Eigenberg, who has worked closely with Project Fire Buddies on other special moments in the past, was touched by Reyna's story.
"... she’s such a spark of life," Eigenberg told Patch. "Such a sweet, endearing, kind person. She’s going through a time a young person should never have to go through."
Eigenberg worked with the Cicero chapter of Project Fire Buddies—of which Reyna is the first official fire buddy—to plan the surprise. Portraying a first responder on the show has inspired his admiration of those in real life.
"First responders go above and beyond, taking care of people, rescuing people," Eigenberg said.
Those involved with Project Fire Buddies take their service to another level.
"Now in their off time, they’re going to find children and young people, in adversity or with disease, and supporting them," he said. "They go above and beyond, and then go above and beyond again."
It's what's at the heart of the organization, an effort that started in 2016 with a few Oak Forest firefighters playing air hockey with a child fighting cancer. They pulled up in the fire truck, with sirens glowing, carrying gifts and flashing smiles for the first-ever "fire buddy." It was a mere concept that has since grown beyond its founder's imagination.
"When we started Project Fire Buddies, it began with a simple prayer—to help the most vulnerable in our community," CEO Kurt DeGroot told Patch. "Looking back now, it all makes perfect sense."
"First responders are natural helpers," he added, "and Project Fire Buddies has created a bridge that enables that instinct to flourish. What’s been truly inspiring is seeing the broader community rally around these incredible kids. Help comes in so many forms—whether it’s sharing our posts, starting conversations, proudly wearing our gear, participating in volunteer events, or even in giveaways.
"Every act of kindness, no matter how big or small, spreads love and joy. At its core, it’s about being a good human and making the world a little brighter than we found it."
The now not-so-small and very mighty organization has expanded to 110 chapters across 10 states.
"... the growth continues to spread like wildfire," DeGroot said. "It's an exciting journey for everyone involved, and the momentum is showing no signs of slowing down. We're thrilled to be expanding our reach and making a difference in more lives every day."
The significance of the organization being featured in a national spotlight is not lost on DeGroot.
"It is an incredible honor for Project Fire Buddies to receive this kind of national recognition," he said. "This spotlight not only highlights the remarkable work we do, but most importantly, it shines a light on our courageous Fire Buddies—the real heroes in this world.
"These amazing children can proudly say, 'I'm a Fire Buddy,' knowing that they have a vast and supportive family of first responders standing by their side. This recognition offers us a valuable opportunity to expand that beautiful family and continue growing our mission of support and love."
Being a part of Project Fire Buddies has helped Reyna and her mother stay grounded, as everything about her cancer swirls around them.
"It means a lot, and brings a smile to her face all the time," Anacleto said. "This whole thing has been a rollercoaster. In February, it was the worst time of our lives, because we didn’t know what to expect. … We still don’t know. It shattered both of us."
Reyna is doing well, and thus far does not have to undergo chemotherapy or radiation. Her biggest challenge currently, Anacleto said, is her liver function, along with ability to process nutrients. It's possible the tumor's presence affected her body's ability to absorb nutrients, she said, and she is unable to gain weight.
Otherwise, she is not in any pain and is feeling well.
Now Reyna and her mother are looking forward to the premiere event for the show, including a red carpet walk. They'll both dress to impress for the occasion, where they'll again rub elbows with celebrities—including retired Chicago Blackhawks Stanley Cup champion Brent Sopel, and Eigenberg.
"David is more than just a celebrity—he's truly a salt-of-the-earth kind of person," DeGroot said, of Eigenberg. "His genuine love for Project Fire Buddies and the kids we support shines through in everything he does. He’s gone above and beyond for our organization, and it’s clear he’s not just involved, but deeply invested. On a personal level, I’ve been a huge fan of his work for years, so having the privilege of calling him a friend and getting to know the real David has been a tremendous blessing. It’s a rare gift to meet someone so grounded and kindhearted, especially in this capacity."
Both Reyna and her mother are a bit jittery, but they know that'll change once they're there.
"We’re very nervous, but they make it 100 times easier to ease our nerves," Anacleto said.
The show stars ABC News Chief meteorologist Ginger Zee and Sheldon Yellen, CEO and founder ofBELFOR Property Restoration, the parent company of 1-800 BOARDUP. The episode featuring Reyna and her family is titled "Hope and Hoofs."
"Reyna is truly one of the heroes we always speak about at Project Fire Buddies," DeGroot said. "Our mission is to deliver smiles, and we never want to limit the possibilities of what we can achieve.
"When Josh from our Cicero chapter and I brainstormed ideas, I reached out to David, and as always, he took things to a whole new level. His dedication is beyond words. Watching Reyna and her family's faces light up was absolutely priceless. When we met with Alex from Hearts of Heroes, I couldn’t wait to share what we had planned. Alex is the kind of person who elevates everything she touches, and working with her and her team at 1-800-BoardUp helped us break through that ceiling and deliver something truly extraordinary for Reyna."
Eigenberg said he's honored to be part of Project Fire Buddies.
"If I could put a smile on somebody’s face for a few minutes, and I’ve got the time, I’m happy to jump in and do that," he said.
"There’s virtue everywhere, but these days, it can be hard to find. They’re chock full of it."
Reyna's fandom of the show and interaction with first responders in real time has inspired her career choice.
"She’s a really good kid," Anacleto said. "She’s very driven—whatever she sets her mind to, she accomplishes. Because of the show, and now because of Project Fire Buddies, she wants to be a first responder."
She attends Morton Freshman Center, where she's already begun studying bio-medical advanced classes, "so she can get her feet wet in the field," Anacleto said.
"I do believe she will change the world one day," she said. "All her teachers have told me that since she was in 2nd grade.
"And I believe it, now more than ever."
Catch the episode of Hearts of Heroes featuring Reyna, Eigenberg, and Project Fire Buddies, airing Sunday, Oct. 20 at 4:30 p.m. on ABC-7 Chicago.
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OAK FOREST, IL — Before kids go out trick or treating on Halloween, fall is a good time to take an inventory of who is living in your neighborhood. Oak Forest currently has 16 registered sex offenders listed on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry; 14 are living in Oak Forest. Midlothian has 26 registered.Two sex offenders originally registered to Oak Forest addresses currently reside in the Department of Corrections.Two sex offenders orig...
OAK FOREST, IL — Before kids go out trick or treating on Halloween, fall is a good time to take an inventory of who is living in your neighborhood. Oak Forest currently has 16 registered sex offenders listed on the Illinois Sex Offender Registry; 14 are living in Oak Forest. Midlothian has 26 registered.
Two sex offenders originally registered to Oak Forest addresses currently reside in the Department of Corrections.
Two sex offenders originally registered to Midlothian addresses are currently in the Department of Corrections.
One registered in Midlothian is listed as homeless.
Registered sex offenders are prohibited from passing out candy on Halloween. They may not appear in a Halloween costume or other child-centered holiday character, such as Santa or the Easter Bunny, in public. Registered sex offenders, however, may wear a Halloween costume in their home, according to the Illinois law.
You may want to avoid trick or treating at these houses and apartments on Halloween, or merely be aware of who's living in your neighborhood during the rest of the year.
Law enforcement officials and researchers caution that the registries can play only a limited role in preventing child sexual abuse and stress that most perpetrators are known to the child.
The U.S. Department of Justice, which oversees the National Sex Offender Public Website, estimates that only about 10 percent of perpetrators of child sexual abuse are strangers to the child.
The Justice Department estimates 60 percent of perpetrators are known to the child but are not family members but rather family friends, babysitters, child care providers and others, and 30 percent of child victims are abused by family members. Nearly a quarter of the abusers are under the age of 18, the department estimates.
The Association for the Treatment of Sex Abusers, a nonprofit organization for clinicians, researchers, educators, law enforcement and court officials involved in sexual abuse cases, cautions that children do not face a heightened risk during the Halloween season: "There is no change in the rate of sexual crimes by non-family members during Halloween. That was true both before and after communities enacted laws to restrict the activities of registrants during Halloween. The crimes that do increase around Halloween are vandalism and property destruction, as well as theft, assault, and burglary."
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This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|Oak Forest Baseball Association, NeighborJoin us on Sunday, October 13th at Cardinal Creek Golf Club for Oak Forest Baseball Association's 2nd Annual Golf Outing. See flyer for info or...
This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|
Oak Forest Baseball Association, Neighbor
Join us on Sunday, October 13th at Cardinal Creek Golf Club for Oak Forest Baseball Association's 2nd Annual Golf Outing. See flyer for info or to register click the link here: OFBA
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|2d
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Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Neighbor
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|For Sale|Oct 10
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Lost & Found|Oct 6
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|Sep 20
Oak Forest Baseball Association, Neighbor
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|Aug 30
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Neighbor
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|Sep 13
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Neighbor
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|Aug 20
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Neighbor
Oak Forest, IL|Local Classified|Announcement|Aug 20
Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Neighbor
630.352.3601
