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 Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, VA 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 Arlington, VA 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.
“We recently moved my mom to Virginia, and Always Best Care was right there to”
“When I contacted Always Best Care, my primary need was reliable, safe transportation to and”
“Rashid and his team from Always Best Care of Fairfax were truly partners with our”
“Always Best Care has done an amazing job caring for my elderly mother. Daniel specially”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care! We have been using their services since August when”
“Always Best Care was a godsend for our family. When my dad needed immediate care,”
“Rashid and his staff are outstanding! They made it possible to transport my 96”
“Our experience with Always Best Care has been truly great. Rashid has been a”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company and the owner Rashid Farrell. We”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company and the owner Rashid Farrell. We”
“If you're looking for care for a loved one and don't know who to trust,”
“I would highly recommend Always Best Care. From our initial consultation through ongoing care, they”
“We have been using Always Best Home Care Services for the last week as my”
“I wanted to express my deep gratitude for the kindness, support and overall professionalism of”
“Absolute game changer. Super helpful to my mother, father, and made the rest of the”
“Rashid Farrell, the Owner, is very attentive, helpful and sincere. He follows up with clients”
“Rashid was great from day 1. Highly recommend always best services.”
“Had a great experience with Always Best Care! We had an urgent need for in-home”
“We started with Always Best Care mid July 2021. They worked with us and her”
“I have been with Always Best Care for over a year. I have a neurological”
“Always Best Care truly took the stress out of my grandfather’s post-surgery recovery. I was”
“Pleasant experience with the care professionals who provided support and care. Lankgo was very helpful”
“We did not end up getting care from Always Best Care since our father uses”
“My family and I were blessed to find Rashid and his wonderful team of caregivers!”
“I'm writing this review as a friend and sometimes caregiver of a person with dementia.”
“We recently moved my mom to Virginia, and Always Best Care was right there to help us every step of the way. My mom has Alzheimer’s, and we were unsure how to move her safely and calmly, especially since she didn’t fully understand what was happening. Traveling by plane and arriving at National Airport added another layer of stress. Jonathan connected us with Bruce from Always Best Care in South Carolina, and together, both offices and our family coordinated Mom’s move. The South Carolina staff was great, and Mom’s caregiver moved her schedule around so she could travel with Mom. She was incredibly kind and gentle and stayed with Mom throughout the entire flight. Always Best Care also recommended medical transportation from the airport to her new facility. The driver was compassionate and took great care to make sure Mom was comfortable and safe. In the days following, another kind and compassionate caregiver immediately connected with Mom and helped make her transition to her new home a wonderful experience. Always Best Care was truly the answer our family needed. We are so thankful to Jonathan and Rashid for helping us navigate this difficult season and for treating Mom with such genuine kindness, dignity, and care. We highly recommend Always Best Care!”
“When I contacted Always Best Care, my primary need was reliable, safe transportation to and from a medical appointment. From the outset, Mr. Rashid Farrell went beyond simply arranging a ride. Mr. Farrell, along with a nurse, took the time to review my medical background and conduct a thorough health assessment to ensure my safety and comfort. This personalized approach gave me confidence that my well-being was their top priority. Even though my transportation needs later changed, the company’s commitment to quality and care remained consistent. They adapted seamlessly to my new requirements, maintaining the same level of attention to detail. The staff’s professionalism, empathy, and genuine concern for my needs made the experience not just convenient, but truly caring. I highly recommend Always Best Care to anyone seeking transportation services that combine reliability with compassionate, individualized care. They have earned my trust and loyalty!”
“Rashid and his team from Always Best Care of Fairfax were truly partners with our family as we together provided care for my husband when he needed it. As my husband's care needs increased, ABC never failed to step up to provide the additional services and dedicated care necessary and, when needed, the recommendations for rehab and other outside services. Rashid is the kindest, most patient and most responsive owner/operator of any business I have ever worked with - both in healthcare and otherwise. I cannot imagine having gone through this part of our lives without Rashid and his team. Ms. Martine was also always very responsive every time she was needed, often as an emergency and after hours. Ms. Genet was with us the longest and we were always happy to see her. In her low-key professional manner, she successfully encouraged him to do all he could with physical therapy and other activities. Ms. Stacey spent many long hours with us and was always patient and supportive to both of us and provided excellent care as did Ms. Benica and Ms. Salay. Ms. Jidy was with us at the end of our journey and was truly a Godsend to both of us. I will be forever grateful to Rashid and his team and will never forget their dedication, support and kindness to us.”
“Always Best Care has done an amazing job caring for my elderly mother. Daniel specially has been an outstanding, dedicated helper throughout these months of struggle and complexity”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care! We have been using their services since August when we moved my mom into assisted living. She needed a lot of extra personal help, and we weren’t quite sure how the transition would go, but Rashid ensured that from the moment she arrived at her new home, she had a caregiver there to help her. All of the care professionals from Always Best have been warm, nurturing and professional, but the two who have been with my mom the longest, Ms.Jidy and Ms Shanice, have played a critical role in helping my mom adapt to her new home and be healthy. Beyond caring for her personal physical needs, they have helped her make friends, made sure she attended fun activities and went on excursions, took her outside to enjoy the sunshine, reminded her to do her exercises, and more. They have noticed when something is “off” with her and she isn’t quite herself, and have notified the nurses they suspect some medical attention is needed. My mom’s quality of life is definitely better due to their care, and my family has peace of mind knowing they are with her. Additionally, Rashid and Ron are incredibly thoughtful, professional and communicative, which we really appreciate. We are so glad we made the decision to use Always Best!”
“Always Best Care was a godsend for our family. When my dad needed immediate care, Mr. Rashid and his team stepped in with kindness, skill, and professionalism. I knew Always Best Care was different right from the initial assessment. Mr. Rashid, the owner, came with a nurse to meet my father, and together they quickly earned his trust. Other agencies had done similar assessments, but their staff barely interacted with him. The Always Best Care team, on the other hand, engaged with my dad and encouraged him to do things he hadn’t done in months — walking, stretching, showering, even playing word games. Their expertise and compassion gave me peace of mind, knowing my dad was not only being cared for but also gently challenged in ways I couldn’t manage on my own. My dad especially loved Ms. Renette, whose patience and kindness won him over, and Ms. Bouchra, who motivated him to stretch and walk outside after months of not doing so. Thank you, Always Best Care, for supporting our family and helping make such a difficult time easier and kinder.”
“Rashid and his staff are outstanding! They made it possible to transport my 96 year old mother-in-law from Virginia to New Jersey so she could attend our wedding. The aide that was with my mother-in-law for the entire weekend went over and above. We would recommend Always best Care Senior Services to anyone that wants the best care for their loved ones”
“Our experience with Always Best Care has been truly great. Rashid has been a source of support and we are grateful! In particular, he was very helpful in helping us select a senior living facility for our parents. He did all the leg work in narrowing down our list to those he felt matched our requirements and then helped us tour the finalists . This allowed us to make an informed decision and we are very happy with the results . Rashid cares deeply about the welfare of his clients and goes above and beyond to provide what is best for them!”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company and the owner Rashid Farrell. We were searching for in home care for our aging parents so that we could keep them in the home they love for as long as possible. We began our search with our parent's primary physician, and he provided us with the names of a couple of agencies...one being Always Best Care. We spoke with Rashid about the type of care we were looking for and the specific needs of our parents and he listened carefully and provided wonderful insight and advice to us. He explained how and why he got into this particular business and it was mostly because of his own experience wanting the best care for his parents as they aged. He approaches his business from a caring and compassionate place and provided a care plan specific to our needs. He even found us a night caregiver in just a few short hours in the evening after our mom fell and broke her scapula and the hospital needed to release her ... at that time, we only had care from 9 to 5. He follows up constantly...checking in to make sure we are happy with the service we are getting. He also helped us transition our parents to an assisted living facility when the time came. His caregivers are kind and responsible. Our parents became very fond of Ms. Almaz as she was their main caregiver, but they also enjoyed the company of Ms. Salay, Ms. Stacy, Ms. Millie and Ms. Renette. If I had to do this all over again, I would definitely use Always Best Care...The name is appropriate because Rashid does provide the absolute Best Care for our aging loved ones!”
“I cannot say enough wonderful things about this company and the owner Rashid Farrell. We were searching for in home care for our aging parents so that we could keep them in the home they love for as long as possible. We began our search with our parent's primary physician, and he provided us with the names of a couple of agencies...one being Always Best Care. We spoke with Rashid about the type of care we were looking for and the specific needs of our parents and he listened carefully and provided wonderful insight and advice to us. He explained how and why he got into this particular business and it was mostly because of his own experience wanting the best care for his parents as they aged. He approaches his business from a caring and compassionate place and provided a care plan specific to our needs. He even found us a night caregiver in just a few short hours in the evening after our mom fell and broke her scapula and the hospital needed to release her ,,,at that time, we only had care from 9 to 5. He follows up constantly...checking in to make sure we are happy with the service we are getting. He also helped us transition our parents to an assisted living facility when the time came. His caregivers are kind and responsible. Our parents became very fond of Ms. Almaz as she was their main caregiver, but they also enjoyed the company of Ms. Salay, Ms. Stacy, Ms. Millie and Ms. Renette. If I had to do this all over again, I would definitely use Always Best Care....The name is appropriate because Rashid does provide the absolute Best Care for our aging loved ones!”
“If you're looking for care for a loved one and don't know who to trust, look no further. Rashid and his team of caregivers at Always Best Care Senior Services provided top-notch care for my 88-year-old mother over the course of several weeks. I was impressed by Rashid's professionalism, responsiveness, and dependability. When I first contacted him, he took the time to meet with me and my mother at her residence to better understand our needs. He always managed to line up high-quality caregivers, often on short notice. My mother was not in a good place mentally and resisted receiving care from strangers, yet she told me she was pleased with each of the caregivers that Rashid sent her way. My thanks to Ms. Martine, Ms. Barbara, Ms. Gidy, and Ms. Anna. They drove my mother to various appointments, helped her communicate with her healthcare providers, and supported her emotionally. I should also mention that the billing process was straightforward and transparent, with no surprises. Finding care for a loved one can be daunting and scary. You won't be disappointed if you turn to Rashid and his team.”
“I would highly recommend Always Best Care. From our initial consultation through ongoing care, they demonstrated true professionalism at every step. Rashid, in particular, provided a comprehensive view of the professional care and service, while always treating our family with genuine dignity and respect. The company also actively helped connect us with other vendors and resources we needed, making the whole experience seamless and a little less overwhelming. The care professionals they provided were top-notch - reliable, skilled, and compassionate, with many of them having years of professional and nursing care. Their team clearly understands that quality care extends beyond just the basics - it's about creating a comprehensive support network. If you're looking for a care provider that truly partners with you and delivers excellence, Always Best Care is the right choice.”
“We have been using Always Best Home Care Services for the last week as my mother transitioned from one memory care to another. She needed a little extra support during this big change and we were referred to Always Best. The owner Rashid, is one of the most professional, kind, knowledgable and detail oriented people I have ever worked with. We have used 2 other home care companies in the past, and the customer service Rashid provided was absolutely above and beyond. He was very communicative and updated me every step of the way to ensure a seamless transition for my mom. He made sure we had the appropriate care professionals who could fit our specific needs as well. His care team was top notch and we were thrilled with the care my mom received during this time. Ms. Monse, Ms. Judy, Ms. Aisha, Ms. Ling and Ms. Esther were all wonderful and made a valiant effort to keep my mom on her routine throughout the day while also keeping her stimulated. We are so thankful we found Always Best Home care services and would 100% wholeheartedly recommend Rashid and his team.”
“I wanted to express my deep gratitude for the kindness, support and overall professionalism of Always Best Care Senior Services. For those individuals facing the challenge of taking care of an elder relative, Always Best Care is more than just a nursing / care service - they are a support network. I wanted to make a special call out to Ron, Shanti, and Mary for their hard work and dedicated care for my mother. I truly appreciate all your help during these challenging and stressful times. Sincerely, Todd”
“Absolute game changer. Super helpful to my mother, father, and made the rest of the family feel safe and secure. Dr. T Talbert”
“Rashid Farrell, the Owner, is very attentive, helpful and sincere. He follows up with clients and truly does all he can to make them and their loved ones happy. I highly recommend using Always Best Care to care for anyone in need of care.”
“Rashid was great from day 1. Highly recommend always best services.”
“Had a great experience with Always Best Care! We had an urgent need for in-home care for my father following a recent surgery. Rashid and his team were responsive, caring, extremely communicative, and super flexible with our evolving needs and schedule changes, helping us navigate a challenging time with grace and support. We are really grateful and would highly recommend them to others in the area.”
“We started with Always Best Care mid July 2021. They worked with us and her insurance to provide me time to do things I needed to do. We have had the same caregivers for the past 3 years and we love them!! Brenda C. is absolutely terrific!! Jeanine is fabulous!! From the start, they have worked with and around our schedules, especially when we have had changes. Working with Scott M. the original manager/owner, and now with Rashid F., the new manager/owner has been really easy and enjoyable. Everyone as been easy-going and helpful.”
“I have been with Always Best Care for over a year. I have a neurological condition that affects my movement and balance. My caregiver has helped me make doctor appointments and attend weekly yoga. My caregiver is always punctual. I highly recommend the company.”
“Always Best Care truly took the stress out of my grandfather’s post-surgery recovery. I was so worried about how he would manage, especially since I couldn’t always be there due to work, but he was in amazing hands. The caregivers were compassionate, attentive, and made his recovery process so much easier. Knowing he was well cared for gave me peace of mind. I highly recommend their services!”
“Pleasant experience with the care professionals who provided support and care. Lankgo was very helpful with taking me to doctor's appointments, to the pharmacy, and entertaining my free time by playing cards. Rashid, the owner, has been so helpful, so understanding, and so kind and has helped me tremendously in my caring. I would recommend Always Best Care of Fairfax!”
“We did not end up getting care from Always Best Care since our father uses Medicaid, but they were very kind and helpful in connecting us with another agency who accepts Medicaid, and followed up with us to make sure we had reached the other agency.”
“My family and I were blessed to find Rashid and his wonderful team of caregivers! From the first day the emphasis was always on our father and how they could meet his needs and keep him comfortable. They took care of our dad as if he was a member of their family. The caring starts at the top with Rashid, who is amazing. He knew my father well and visited him often, always keeping us informed. He would be at the house to orient new care team members and introduce them to our father including weekends and shift change at 8 pm. When we could not be with our father, we knew he was in great hands. We were so fortunate to have found Rashid and his wonderful team of caring and empathetic caregivers, they were a blessing to us during a very difficult time.”
“I'm writing this review as a friend and sometimes caregiver of a person with dementia. She has received in-home services from Always Best Care for several years. Her home care aide, Brenda, helped my friend with things like organizing her files, paying bills, finding and keeping track of her things, canceling subscription items bought online and then not remembered, medication management, etc. She was kind, patient, and highly flexible. The company owner has also been wonderful to work with; kind, patient, flexible and responsive. I highly recommend ABC Senior Services!”
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 River Legacy Parks in Arlington, VA 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 Restaurant506 or visit Arlington House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.
With the help of elderly care in Arlington, VA, 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 Arlington, VA 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 Arlington, VA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
The cost of charging an electric vehicle at an Arlington County station could increase in a few weeks.County Board members are considering a proposal to increase rates from the current 17.46 cents per kilowatt-hour of electricity provided to 30 cents per kilowatt-hour. The roughly 72% increase would cover higher energy costs and help recoup capital costs.Typical electric vehicles use somewhere between 25 and 60 kilowatt-hours per 100 miles.“The proposed base fee is in line with the rates charged at government-owned...
The cost of charging an electric vehicle at an Arlington County station could increase in a few weeks.
County Board members are considering a proposal to increase rates from the current 17.46 cents per kilowatt-hour of electricity provided to 30 cents per kilowatt-hour. The roughly 72% increase would cover higher energy costs and help recoup capital costs.
Typical electric vehicles use somewhere between 25 and 60 kilowatt-hours per 100 miles.
“The proposed base fee is in line with the rates charged at government-owned stations in Fairfax County and Prince William County and remains below most commercial rates in the county and the region,” staff said in a memorandum to Board members.
The ordinance also gives the county manager and staff the power to adjust the fees based on changes to the Virginia Energy Purchasing Governmental Association (VEPGA) rate schedule, which is how the county government is charged for its electricity consumption.
The county government offers 51 charging ports for the public, available at the following locations:
All use Level 2 chargers, which on average take seven to eight hours to fully charge passenger vehicles, according to one estimate.
County officials said 2026 is on track to have the highest use of chargers since the program was introduced in 2022, with January-to-June use running at 65% of the total 2025 annual use.
The typical utilization rate for the county’s equipment is 20%, which county officials say is above the national average.
Board members are also being asked to reduce the hours during which a “dwell fee” is charged to drivers beginning 15 minutes after a charging session ends.
Currently, the rate of $3 per hour is imposed throughout the day, but under the planned amendment it would be discontinued between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. That would allow drivers to keep their vehicles in EV-charging spaces overnight without accruing further costs.
The proposed ordinance revision is part of the Board’s consent agenda for the Oct. 17 meeting. If a Board member wishes to discuss the proposal or a community member seeks to testify on it, the discussion and a final vote will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 20.
Photo via Marek Studzinski/Unsplash
Politics & Government Arlington leaders will soon consider five neighborhood projects and begin reviewing zoning changes aimed at expanding affordable housing.ARLINGTON, VA — Arlington County leaders will consider spending more than $4.2 million on neighborhood improvements, including new sidewalks, streetlights and pedestrian safety upgrades, while also weighing changes to zoning rules that could make it easier for churches and nonprofits to develop affordable housing.The proposals are among the items schedu...
Politics & Government
ARLINGTON, VA — Arlington County leaders will consider spending more than $4.2 million on neighborhood improvements, including new sidewalks, streetlights and pedestrian safety upgrades, while also weighing changes to zoning rules that could make it easier for churches and nonprofits to develop affordable housing.
The proposals are among the items scheduled for the Arlington County Board's meeting Saturday, Oct. 17, beginning at 9:30 a.m.
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The board will consider approving $4.264 million for five projects recommended by the Arlington Neighborhood Advisory Committee through the Arlington Neighborhoods Program.
The proposed improvements would affect several neighborhoods:
County officials said the street improvements are intended to make neighborhoods safer and more accessible for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.
The Douglas Park and Clarendon-Courthouse projects would improve sidewalk connections and pedestrian crossings, while the Penrose improvements would increase nighttime visibility.
The board must approve the funding before the projects can move forward.
The board will also consider beginning the process of updating Arlington's zoning ordinance to comply with recently adopted Virginia legislation intended to make it easier for religious organizations and nonprofits to develop affordable housing on property they own.
The legislation, House Bill 1279 and Senate Bill 388, allows qualifying affordable housing projects on properties owned by religious organizations and 501(c)(3) nonprofits to receive administrative approval, also known as by-right approval.
That means qualifying projects could move through an administrative approval process rather than requiring the same discretionary zoning approvals that other developments may need.
Saturday's proposal would not immediately change Arlington's zoning rules or approve any housing developments.
Instead, the board would consider adopting a resolution allowing county staff to begin studying and drafting potential amendments.
The resolution is also intended to comply with a 2024 Arlington County District Court opinion requiring the county to formally initiate work on zoning amendments before advertising proposed changes.
County officials emphasized that beginning the process does not guarantee the board will ultimately adopt the amendments.
The Arlington County Board's regular meeting begins at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 17, at the Bozman Government Center, 2100 Clarendon Blvd.
Residents can attend in person, watch the meeting online or participate virtually through Microsoft Teams.
Submit written comments to [email protected]. Residents who want to speak during the meeting can register through the county's website or contact the County Board Office at 703-228-3130.
The board will also hold a recessed meeting on Oct. 20 at 3 p.m. to review Arlington's proposed legislative priorities for the 2027 Virginia General Assembly session.
These colleges and universities received the most applications from APS seniors during the 2025-26 school year.College admissions are more competitive than ever. The number of students applying to college was up 5% in 2025-26, compared with the prior school year, according to the Common App’s End-of-Season Report, and students are submitting more applications on average. However, the number of international applications declined steeply, down 9% from the previous school year.Applications to public and private institutions...
These colleges and universities received the most applications from APS seniors during the 2025-26 school year.
College admissions are more competitive than ever. The number of students applying to college was up 5% in 2025-26, compared with the prior school year, according to the Common App’s End-of-Season Report, and students are submitting more applications on average. However, the number of international applications declined steeply, down 9% from the previous school year.
Applications to public and private institutions grew at similar rates in 2025-26 (6% and 5% respectively). This differs from the prior year, when public universities saw five times as many applications as private colleges.
How did these trends play out in Arlington? The application data below was self-reported by students from Wakefield High School, Washington-Liberty High School, Yorktown High School and H-B Woodlawn Secondary Program, as well as the Arlington Career Center (ACC), whose full-time programs include Arlington Tech, the Academic Academy, the Program for Employment Preparedness (PEP) and the English Language Institute. The tuition and enrollment numbers below were drawn from U.S. News and World Report’s annual Best Colleges rankings. Note: Given that the acceptance data below was self-reported by APS students, Arlington school officials stress that they cannot verify its accuracy.
Bloomington, Indiana APS Students Applied: 126 APS Students Accepted: 103 Tuition & Fees: $42,295 Undergrad Enrollment: 38,093
Newport News, Virginia APS Students Applied: 122 APS Students Accepted: 101 Tuition & Fees: $17,219 Undergrad Enrollment: 4,369
Boston, Massachusetts APS Students Applied: 129 APS Students Accepted: 66 Tuition & Fees: $69,289 Undergrad Enrollment: 17,432
Arlington, Virginia APS Students Applied: 130 APS Students Accepted: 115 Tuition & Fees: $42,186 Undergrad Enrollment: 2,503
Boulder, Colorado APS Students Applied: 134 APS Students Accepted: 108 Tuition & Fees: $44,748 Undergrad Enrollment: 33,384
Washington, D.C. APS Students Applied: 134 APS Students Accepted: 59 Tuition & Fees: $70,170 Undergrad Enrollment: 11,677
Ann Arbor, Michigan APS Students Applied: 126 APS Students Accepted: 37 Tuition & Fees: $66,203 Undergrad Enrollment: 34,454
Clemson, South Carolina APS Students Applied: 137 APS Students Accepted: 83 Tuition & Fees: $40,866 Undergrad Enrollment: 23,401
Newark, Delaware APS Students Applied: 142 APS Students Accepted: 115 Tuition & Fees: $43,220 Undergrad Enrollment: 19,287
Columbia, South Carolina APS Students Applied: 149 APS Students Accepted: 91 Tuition & Fees: $37,376 Undergrad Enrollment: 30,187
Norfolk, Virginia APS Students Applied: 192 APS Students Accepted: 177 Tuition & Fees: $13,320 Undergrad Enrollment: 17,746
Williamsburg, Virginia APS Students Applied: 248 APS Students Accepted: 102 Tuition & Fees: $26,456 Undergrad Enrollment: 7,063
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania APS Students Applied: 276 APS Students Accepted: 239 Tuition & Fees: $43,432 Undergrad Enrollment: 20,418
Annandale, Virginia APS Students Applied: 288 APS Students Accepted: 286 Tuition & Fees: $5,565 Undergrad Enrollment: 58,873
University Park, Pennsylvania APS Students Applied: 363 APS Students Accepted: 316 Tuition & Fees: $43,490 Undergrad Enrollment: 42,619
Richmond, Virginia APS Students Applied: 402 APS Students Accepted: 364 Tuition & Fees: $17,240 Undergrad Enrollment: 21,210
Fairfax, Virginia APS Students Applied: 479 APS Students Accepted: 425 Tuition & Fees: $14,316 Undergrad Enrollment: 28,331
Harrisonburg, Virginia APS Students Applied: 628 APS Students Accepted: 477 Tuition & Fees: $14,250 Undergrad Enrollment: 21,112
Charlottesville, Virginia APS Students Applied: 639 APS Students Accepted: 168 Tuition & Fees: $23,897 Undergrad Enrollment: 17,901
Blacksburg, Virginia APS Students Applied: 643 APS Students Accepted: 346 Tuition & Fees: $16,450 Undergrad Enrollment: 31,035
Prost! The beer festival that originated in Munich, Germany, in 1810 today attracts more than 6 million people worldwide. But you don’t have to catch the next Lufthansa flight out of Dulles to experience gemütlichkeit (good cheer). The taps will be flowing in the DMV, too. Here’s where you can find fun for all ages starting Sept. 18.Get ready for a good time Sept. 18, 5-9 p.m., and Sept. 19, 2 p.m.-9 p.m., at NoSo’s Falls Church location. The Ai...
Prost! The beer festival that originated in Munich, Germany, in 1810 today attracts more than 6 million people worldwide. But you don’t have to catch the next Lufthansa flight out of Dulles to experience gemütlichkeit (good cheer). The taps will be flowing in the DMV, too. Here’s where you can find fun for all ages starting Sept. 18.
Get ready for a good time Sept. 18, 5-9 p.m., and Sept. 19, 2 p.m.-9 p.m., at NoSo’s Falls Church location. The Airstream trailer bar will be open outside, serving Oktoberfest brews and specialty cocktails, as well as German eats such as homemade pretzels with honey butter and mustard, a bratwurst platter with potato salad and homemade sauerkraut, and frankfurters. 205 Park Ave., Falls Church
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Test your stein-holding strength and compete for best lederhosen during this three-day festival, Sept. 18-20, which includes food and drink specials. 2300 Clarendon Blvd., Arlington (Courthouse)
Why limit the celebration to one day or one weekend, when the party can stretch longer? Pull up a seat on the newly reopened patio and sip brews from Paulaner Brewery on Sept. 18, Sam Adams on Sept. 19, DC Brau on Sept. 24, 3 Floyds Brewing on Sept. 26 and Port City Brewing on Oct. 3. Each event runs from 5-7 p.m. and has an $11 beer and pretzel deal. Save a few bucks when you get a 10% discount for dressing in lederhosen or a dirndl. 4001 Campbell Ave., Arlington (Shirlington)
The Tysons beer garden is doing it up with a series of free events, starting with its Oktoberfest German Kickoff Sept. 19, noon-5 p.m., featuring classic German eats and themed games. Bring your dressed up pup on Sept. 26, 1-6 p.m. for Dogtoberfest, which includes pet treats and a doggie costume contest. Perhaps you’ve been training for this for years: Oktoberfest American Kickoff-Beer Olympics enters the chat Oct. 3, 1-6 p.m., with games like a marshmallow-to-stein toss. On Oct. 10, 1-6 p.m., make it an all-ages outing to the Oktoberfest Kids & Family Festival: Fondue, Spiderman, Rumi & Petting Zoo. And Renn Fest isn’t over yet, but you don’t have to Reise (journey) to Maryland for medieval merriment. On Oct. 17, 1-6 p.m., put on your lederhosen and a cloak and return to Shipgarten to prove your mettle in stein hoisting, jousting, archery and axe-throwing. 7581 Colshire Drive, Tysons
Cheers to a day of Bavarian fun! Head to John Carlyle Square on Sept. 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. for traditional dances, live German music, a beer garden, and vendors selling everything from handmade crafts to strudel and brats. Throughout the day, visitors can enter competitions such as stein holding and other feats. Come dressed in your Oktoberfest finest and vie to be crowned Mr. and Mrs. Oktoberfest. 300 John Carlyle St., Alexandria
The Upside on Moore food hall will celebrate the occasion Sept. 19, 11 a.m.-9 p.m., with a German-inspired menu featuring pretzels with beer cheese, bratwurst and German pastries, plus various beer specials, including an Oktoberfest Märzen on draft from Silver Branch Brewing in Silver Spring, Maryland. Enjoy live music from 5-8 p.m., and play beer pong and pretzel toss. 1700 N. Moore St., Arlington (Rosslyn)
Head to the heart of Old Town on Sept. 19 for DJs all day, starting at noon, and live music at night. The brew pub’s rooftop and Hofbräu Room, usually a private event space, will all be open for the festivities. Come back Sept. 27 for Puptoberfest, a canine-friendly event with a competition for the coolest Oktoberfest dog. 710 King St., Alexandria
The eighth annual event at this Falls Church brew pub promises a day of live music, German-style beers and Oktoberfest eats (pretzels, bratwurst, schnitzel) on Sept. 19, noon-5 p.m. The fun continues Oct. 24, 7-10 p.m. with a twist on the usual oompah music: Grateful Dead tribute band Born Cross Eyed will take the stage for the brewery’s Grateful Oktoberfest featuring another round of bratwurst, pretzels and lagers. 2822 Fallfax Drive, Falls Church
No need to travel when there’s a legit German bier hall right here in Arlington. On Sept. 26, 11 a.m., get into the Oktoberfest spirit with live music, a ceremonial cask-tapping, a stein-holding contest and a “das boot” chugging competition. (For the uninitiated, that would be drinking from a giant, boot-shaped glass.) Bonus: Wear a dirndl or lederhosen and get a free flight glass. 4100 Fairfax Drive, Arlington (Ballston)
Take in traditional German music, food and drink Oct. 1, 3-7 p.m., courtesy of Ballston BID. Spend $10 at a hot-food vendor and get a free drink from the Oktoberfest beverage bar. 901 N. Taylor St., Arlington (Ballston)
Join the crowd on historic Church Street on Oct. 3, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. for an annual celebration featuring live music and beer and wine from Caboose Brewing Co., Norm’s Beer & Wine and other area beverage experts. Little ones can engage in free kids’ activities such as pumpkin decorating and bounce houses. And what’s a party without food? Dozens of vendors will be on hand, including American Prime, Little Austria and Terra’s Ice Cream, Coffee, and Sweets. Admission is free. 131 Church St., N.E., Vienna
The National Landing restaurant will host its second annual festival Oct. 3, 2-8 p.m. The whole place will be a beer garden for a day, serving traditional German brews and local craft favorites in classic steins, and bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel and other Bavarian foods. Just remember to hold on to your lederhosen when you give the mechanical bull a go. 2117 Crystal Drive, Arlington (National Landing)
Equal parts love letter and history lesson, Mambo Legends: The Music Never Ends provides a bridge for modern audiences to the golden era of Latin jazz in New York City in the early 1940s, when the Machito Orchestra fused the big band sound with the rhythms of Africa, Cuba, and Puerto Rico to create a new genre of music beloved around the world.Not Rated/Brief languageCommunity Curator: Jim Byers, WPFW's "Latin Flavor Classic Edition"Director Mari Keiko Gonza...
Equal parts love letter and history lesson, Mambo Legends: The Music Never Ends provides a bridge for modern audiences to the golden era of Latin jazz in New York City in the early 1940s, when the Machito Orchestra fused the big band sound with the rhythms of Africa, Cuba, and Puerto Rico to create a new genre of music beloved around the world.
Not Rated/Brief language
Community Curator: Jim Byers, WPFW's "Latin Flavor Classic Edition"
Director Mari Keiko Gonzalez in conversation with Jim Byers.
Part of the Free Movie Nights at 2700 Art Space Fridays, 6-9pm, Sept 18-Oct 9 Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month with community-curated films highlighting Latin music in film
Get in the mambo groove and listen to the curated playlist by WPFW 89.3 FM's Jim Byers!
specializes in stone baked artisanal pizza pies, salads, Italian street style sandwiches, and dessert pies with rotating weekly specials. Tang and Sizzle are the local favorite! You have seen them on Nelson Street at Jennie Dean Park this summer and are with us at SPARK! this fall. They launched here in our neighborhood about four months ago and are skyrocketing in popularity!
sells fresh handmade churros filled with chocolate, dulce de leche and sweet condensed milk. They also serve aguas frescas like hibiscus and lemonade, hot and iced Mexican Pot coffee and ice cream churro sundaes. You might recognize the name, as they are also at Clarendon Crossing.
The Mambo Legends Orchestra is committed to keeping the sounds of the great Afro-Cuban bandleaders Machito, Tito Puente, and Tito Rodriguez alive for future generations. Comprised of several former members of these legendary orchestras, The Mambo Legends provide a link to the golden era of music in New York in the early 1940s, when the Machito Orchestra fused the big-band sound of popular music with the rhythms of Africa, Cuba, and Puerto Rico to create an enduring musical genre beloved around the world.
Mari Keiko Gonzalez is an Emmy® award-winning producer, director, and editor who has worked on live performances, television series and documentaries for many artists including: Michael Jackson, Billy Joel, Tony Bennett, Aretha Franklin, Willie Nelson, Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, Lauryn Hill, John Legend, Parliament Funkadelic, Ziggy Marley, Jay-Z, Rihanna, The Weeknd, The Judds, Carrie Underwood, and Alicia Keys.
In 2015 she edited the documentary, Live From New York!, which was the opening night film at the 2015 Tribeca Film Festival. She was the editor of Jimmy Carter Rock and Roll President, which was the opening night film for the 2020 Tribeca Film Festival and Tom Petty Somewhere You Feel Free, which won the audience award at the 2021 SXSW Film Festival, and the PGA award for Outstanding Televised or Streamed Motion Picture.
Mari produced, directed, and edited Mambo Legends: The Music Never Ends about The Mambo Legends Orchestra, formerly members of The Tito Puente Orchestra, that won an Emmy® for Best Documentary Cultural in October 2025. She was the executive producer, co-writer, and editor of the 4-part documentary series, James Brown: Say It Loud, executive produced by Peter Afterman, Questlove and Mick Jagger. Mari produced the 2025 film, Left Behind, executive produced by Juju Chang of ABC News and was nominated for a 2026 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Documentary Film. She was producer and editor of The Makings of Curtis Mayfield directed by H.E.R. and was executive producer and supervising editor for UTAS and Monkeypaw Production’s High Horse: The Black Cowboy, also nominated for a 2026 NAACP Image Award for Outstanding Documentary Television and a 2026 Gotham Award for Breakthrough Nonfiction Series.
She is currently producing, directing, and editing the documentary She’s The Joint: The Story of MC SHA-ROCK about the first female emcee. Mari is a member of American Cinema Editors (ACE) and The Television Academy and is on the advisory board of The School of Cinematic Arts at the University of Hawai’i at M?noa.
2700 Art Space, 2700 S. Nelson St., Arlington, VA, 22206, View Map
703-463-9462
