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It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Upper Falls, MD

Home Care Upper Falls, MD

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 Jerusalem Mill 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 Upper Falls, MD is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

In-Home Care Upper Falls, MD

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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Elderly Care for Facundo K.
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“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They”

Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They are all expert and knows their job very well in all ages. I never regret that their service to take care of my grandmother. They are trustworthy, respectful, honest and passionate to their work. I highly recommend them on their work.
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In-home Care for Keith S.
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“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She”

I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She was very knowledgeable and professional. Fortunately, the second location she showed us was a good fit (Dakota Paradise). I heartily recommend Always Best Care if you want help finding a loved one the proper care.
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Home Care Services for Alan L.
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“I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always”

I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.
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Non-medical Home Care for Monica C.
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“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in”

I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best care is the best! Their caregiver is very nice with respective attitude. They are all expert and knows their job very well in all ages. I never regret that their service to take care of my grandmother. They are trustworthy, respectful, honest and passionate to their work. I highly recommend them on their work.”

Facundo K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I met with Elaine Gill as we needed a secure place for my Dad. She was very knowledgeable and professional. Fortunately, the second location she showed us was a good fit (Dakota Paradise). I heartily recommend Always Best Care if you want help finding a loved one the proper care.”

Keith S.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot really find the words to say how wonderful the staff is at Always Best Care of Upper Chesapeake: Highly competent, Comforting, caring, extremely attentive, endlessly patient and reassuring. Elaine Gill has done an amazing job at ensuring that the staff she has are just as committed to ensuring the highest quality of life for every client, as Elaine! You are on the top of my list for any further care services that my family members may need going forward.”

Alan L.
×
TESTIMONIALS

“I used Always Best Care to care for my parents who happen to live in another state. I met with Elaine (the owner) to discuss my options and determine the best caregiver service to meet my parents needs. She was a great help; addressed all my questions and concerns and gave me peace of mind that my parents were in good hands. Their caregiver is wonderful and very competent. I don't have to worry about them or become a detective to find out what is going on with them in Maryland. Although my parents were a little skeptical at first, Elaine and her staff have put their mind at ease and made them feel very comfortable about the entire experience. They both feel much safer now and happier that they are able to stay in the home that they love. I am comforted in knowing that my parents are receiving quality care and they are in the capable hands of Elaine and her staff at Always Best Care. Words can not express my sincere gratitude for the awesome care provided to my parents.”

Monica C.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Upper Falls, MD?

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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

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Senior Care Upper Falls, MD

Types of Elderly Care in Upper Falls, MD

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

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

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

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming
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Respite Care Upper Falls, MD
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
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Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Great Falls with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
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Home Care Upper Falls, MD
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local L'Auberge Chez Francois or visit President Lincoln's Cottage, 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.

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In-Home Care Upper Falls, MD

Benefits of Home Care in Upper Falls, MD

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Upper Falls, MD, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

Elderly Care Upper Falls, MD

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your MD's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
Senior Care Upper Falls, MD

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Upper Falls, MD understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.

Respite Care Upper Falls, MD

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
Caregivers Upper Falls, MD

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:

  • The W Assisted Living
  • Brightview Great Falls Assisted Living & Memory Care
  • The Kensington Falls Church
  • Hart Heritage Assisted Living
  • Rembrandt Assisted Living
  • Forest Hill Heights: Assisted Living & Memory Care In Bel Air
Home Care Upper Falls, MD

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

In-Home Care Upper Falls, MD

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Upper Falls, MD 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.

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Latest News in Upper Falls, MD

The 13 Best Fall Festivals in All of Maryland

In the fall, the scenic state of Maryland becomes even more beautiful with its stunning fall foliage and crisp autumn days that are perfect for getting outdoors. Home to stunning fall foliage and fun events for everyone, the state hosts a variety of fall festivals that showcase its natural beauty and local flavor. Below are the 13 best fall festivals in all of Maryland...

In the fall, the scenic state of Maryland becomes even more beautiful with its stunning fall foliage and crisp autumn days that are perfect for getting outdoors. Home to stunning fall foliage and fun events for everyone, the state hosts a variety of fall festivals that showcase its natural beauty and local flavor. Below are the 13 best fall festivals in all of Maryland.

1. Annual Autumn Glory Festival, Oakland

Oakland, MD, is famous for its stunning fall foliage, and there’s no better way to enjoy it this autumn than a visit to the Annual Autumn Glory Festival. A five-day celebration showcasing the region’s best and brightest fall colors, the annual event is one of Maryland’s most popular fall festivals. Activities this year include a craft and gift show, Turkey Trail, Fall Foliage Driving Tours, live music, a farmer’s market, and more. The highlight of the festival is the Autumn Glory Grand Featured Parade on Sunday, October 14.

October 11-15, 2023

2. Zoo BOO! Baltimore

The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore’s 40th Annual Zoo BOO! festival is a fall family fun event packed with autumn activities for all ages. Activities this year include daily entertainment, magic shows, carnival games, a not-so-spooky hay maze, contests, trick-or-treating, and more. The zoo’s Jones Falls Zephyr Train route will also be decorated for Halloween during the festival and throughout the entire month of October.

October 28-29, 2023

3. Butler’s Orchard Pumpkin Festival, Germantown

This year, Butler’s Orchard is celebrating its 43rd Annual Pumpkin Festival with nearly a month of fall-themed events for the whole family. Activities at this annual event include pumpkin picking, hayrides, a corn maze, live music, pony rides, and a ton of autumn games and activities. Open Wednesday through Sunday, the scenic Germantown festival is a weather-dependent event, and advanced reservations are strongly encouraged. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate.

September 23 through October 29, 2023

4. Milburn Orchards Fall Festival Weekends, Elkton

Fall Festival Weekends at Milburn Orchards are back for two months of fall fun in their Big Backyard. Activities this year include hayrides, pony rides, a corn maze, a children’s playground, a petting zoo, and a fun lineup of fall-themed games and activities. Milburn’s also has U-Pick Apple Adventures and a Farm Market Bakery & Shoppe perfect for picking up that fall produce. There’s also an Orchard View Deck for those looking to soak up the scenery. Fall Festival Weekends are open Friday through Sunday, and the festival is weather-dependent. Tickets must be purchased online.

September 1 through November 5, 2023

5. Gaver Farm Fun Fest, Mt. Airy

There’s no better way to celebrate the season than with a visit to the scenic and historic Gaver Farm for their Fall Fun Fest. Home to a large corn maze, Gaver’s also offers pick-your-own pumpkins and apples in addition to over 60 attractions for the entire family. Activities this year include a petting zoo, picnic areas, and weekend-only events like gem mining, pedal carts, a cow train, and more. Gaver’s also hosts Pumpkin Harvest season throughout October. The Fall Fun Fest is open daily and is weather-dependent. Tickets can be purchased online or at the farm.

September 1 through October 31, 2023

6. Homestead Gardens Fall Festival Weekends, Davidsonville

Homestead Gardens’ Davidsonville location hosts its Fall Festival Weekends on Saturdays and Sundays throughout October. The festival is home to family-friendly fun and events, including daily live music, tractor rides, hayrides, pony rides, pumpkin carving demos, a food court and food trucks, a fall market, pumpkins, and more. Visitors can also get a taste of fall with Homestead’s famous apple cider donuts. Visitors can purchase tickets online and at the Davidsonville store.

September 30th through October 22, 2023

7. Magnolia Meadow Farms Fall Festival, Thurmont

Family-owned Magnolia Meadow Farms kicks off the season with its Fall Festival weekends throughout October. The farms’ scenic landscapes and open fields are home to Maryland’s Largest Corn Maze, with over five miles of trails and a number of fall events for the entire family. This year, activities include U-Pick fields (pumpkins, gourds, sunflowers), local food and drinks, farm animal interactions, apple cannons, pedal carts, a farm market, Moonlit Maze Nights, and more. Additionally, Magnolia Meadow also offers private campfires where guests can relax and soak up the farms’ spectacular views. Visitors can purchase tickets in person or online.

September 23 through October 29, 2023

8. Maryland Renaissance Festival, Thurmont

The Maryland Renaissance Festival is an annual celebration that begins in late summer and continues on weekends throughout the fall season. Although the festival is not fall-themed, its forest setting is the perfect way to enjoy Maryland’s scenic beauty while experiencing one of the state’s most beloved festivals. Activities include stage, street, and royal court performers and themed events, arts and crafts vendors, food stalls, and more. There is also a costume rental booth for those looking to join in on the fun. Tickets to the festival are available online only.

Weekends through October 22, 2023

9. Good Beer Festival, Salisbury

Although Salisbury’s Good Beer Festival may be known for its brews rather than its fall-themed events, it’s still a great way to experience Maryland’s local flavors this autumn. Chock full of fun events, including live music, craft beer tastings, great food, and arts and crafts vendors, this fall festival is perfect for both beer aficionados and outdoor festival lovers. There’s also an adult spelling bee, keg toss, and bartender/performer to round out the adults-only entertainment.

October 13-14, 2023

10. Greenstreet Gardens Fall Festival & Corn Maze, Lothian

This October, Greenstreet Gardens’ Lothian location will host its Fall Festival and Corn Maze, a family-friendly ‘fest packed with fun and fall-themed events. Activities include a five-acre corn maze, hayrides, face painting, a cow train, a pumpkin patch, local food trucks, and an adults-only Dazed in the Maze evening. Open weekends throughout October, Greenstreet also has two special weekday openings on October 9th and 20th. The fall festival is a weather-dependent event, and tickets can be purchased online.

October 1 through October 28, 2023

11. Fall Festival at Summers Farm, Frederick

For over 27 years, Summers Farm has been a top Maryland destination for fall family fun. Home to over 45 autumn-themed activities, Summers Farm Fall Festival has both weekday and weekend events. This year, activities include wagon rides, a pumpkin train, a famous five-acre corn maze, pick-your-own pumpkins, entertainment, pig races, fireworks, campfire rentals, and more. The festival is open daily, and visitors are strongly encouraged to purchase tickets online.

September 16 through October 31, 2023

12. Montpelier Farms’ Fall Festival, Upper Marlboro

Montpelier Farms’ Weekend Fall Festival hosts a lineup of family-friendly fall events and activities through the first week of November. The festival is open on weekends and also has Weekday Playdays open Tuesday through Thursday throughout October. This year, activities include a 7-acre interactive corn maze, hayrides, a bonfire, pedal carts, pumpkin bowling, a pick-your-own pumpkin patch, and more. Additionally, there’s also a farm market and several food stands where guests can purchase fall treats like kettle corn, cinnamon glazed nuts, apple cider donuts, and other fresh, local food and beverages.

September 16 through November 5, 2023

13. Fells Point Fun Festival, Baltimore

An iconic Baltimore event since 1967, the Fells Point Fun Festival is one of the state’s best early fall festivals. A great way to get outdoors and experience the city’s eclectic Fells Point neighborhood, this ‘fest is all about great local food and drinks, distinctive local vendors, and epic live music. The Fells Point Fun Festival’s admission, live shows, and activities are free, though adults 21+ must purchase wristbands or drink tickets to carry and purchase alcoholic beverages.

October 6-8, 2023

Summary: The 13 Best Fall Festivals in All of Maryland

Fall is the perfect time to get outside and explore all that scenic Maryland has to offer. From its small-town farms to its big-city events, Maryland’s best fall festivals showcase the state’s natural beauty with great food, beautiful scenery, and distinctive local fare.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Dave H. Fine/Shutterstock.com

These Great Hikes in National Parks Near DC Are Free on Friday

Celebrate the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act by spending a day in the great outdoors. In honor of the occasion, all National Parks are waiving entrance fees on Friday, August 4. Head to a park within driving distance of DC to try these five hikes featuring scenic views, sandy strolls, and rocky terrain.The 4.6-mile roundtrip hike is all about chasing waterfalls—namely, the canyon’s largest cascade, the Upper F...

Celebrate the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act by spending a day in the great outdoors. In honor of the occasion, all National Parks are waiving entrance fees on Friday, August 4. Head to a park within driving distance of DC to try these five hikes featuring scenic views, sandy strolls, and rocky terrain.

The 4.6-mile roundtrip hike is all about chasing waterfalls—namely, the canyon’s largest cascade, the Upper Falls. (To check out the other five falls, add an extra 2.7 miles to your hike.) Although it is a moderate hike, expect some steep areas, especially on the way back. Parking is available at the Whiteoak Canyon parking area. Distance from DC: 97 miles.

The trek has some challenging stretches, rewarded with great views of the quaint town and the meeting point of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers. You can do a 4.5-mile roundtrip hike starting at the Master Armorer’s House, or extend the journey into a 6.5-mile hike via the Stone Fort Loop trail. Park at the visitor center and take the shuttle to Lower Town. Distance from DC: 67 miles

If you’re looking for craggy terrain, this popular trail has some rock scrambles along the cliffs. The 3-mile out-and-back hike is rated moderate to hard in difficulty and looks out on the Potomac River rushing through Mather Gorge. Start at the park’s picnic area to get on the trail. Distance from DC: 17 miles

Explore 37 miles of wooded paths, including the 1.5-mile Laurel Loop Trail. The family-friendly walk brings hikers past the South Fork Quantico Creek and across a footbridge. For an additional 1.8 miles, veer off on the Birch Bluff Trail and travel along the creek. (The extension later links back to the Laurel Loop Trail). Leave your car at the Pine Grove Picnic Area. Distance from DC: 32 miles.

To access a network of easy pathways, enter Assateague Island from the Chincoteague side, stopping at the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge. There you’ll find a collection of paved trails and sandy strolls, including the the 3.2-mile Wildlife Loop and the Woodland Trail, a 1.5-mile loop where you can sometimes spot the island’s famous horses on the overlook. Distance from DC: 174 miles.

What You Need to Know in Fall 2022: Athletics and Recreation

From shouting yourself hoarse in stadium stands to competing on the field yourself, the University of Maryland has athletics avenues for Terps of all experience and interest levels.Besides the fandom fun of rooting for a powerhouse Division I sports institution, students (and in many cases, faculty and staff) can scale new heights on one of the tallest climbing walls on the East Coast, join a national title-contending paintball or Ultimate Frisbee team and work up a sweat in dozens of fitness classes.Read on for how you can get...

From shouting yourself hoarse in stadium stands to competing on the field yourself, the University of Maryland has athletics avenues for Terps of all experience and interest levels.

Besides the fandom fun of rooting for a powerhouse Division I sports institution, students (and in many cases, faculty and staff) can scale new heights on one of the tallest climbing walls on the East Coast, join a national title-contending paintball or Ultimate Frisbee team and work up a sweat in dozens of fitness classes.

Read on for how you can get in the game this year.

Varsity Athletics

If you’re a member of a Maryland varsity team, congrats and good luck! For those of us who will get no closer to the action than the sidelines, tickets are available.

UMD students, faculty and staff can attend any athletics event free of charge except for football and men’s basketball: All you have to do is show a university ID. For women’s basketball, faculty and staff can get free general admission tickets or pay for reserved seats.

For football and men’s basketball, student tickets are covered through their tuition bill’s athletic fee, but they must request them online. Students have to register a new account with their university ID and a personal identification number sent to every new Terp in August—but Jordan Looby, senior assistant athletic director of marketing strategy and fan experience, said they will soon be able to just use their regular university credentials.

“We’ve been working with campus to make this easier,” he said. “It’s a big change for students.”

When student ticket demand exceeds the supply, a “loyalty”-based lottery has the number of entries determined by a student’s class year as well as the number of games they previously attended.

Faculty and staff are offered discounted season tickets for football ($279 lower level, $155 upper level) and men’s basketball ($586 lower level, $504 upper level). Sports also hold faculty and staff appreciation days throughout the season, including the football opener versus Buffalo at noon tomorrow in College Park: Upper-level tickets are $5, and lower-level tickets are $20; they can be obtained through this link.

“We really want to engage and yearn for that interaction and camaraderie with campus,” Looby said of varsity programs.

Intramural and Club Sports

Terps who want to play on the field or court have lots of options through club and intramural sports activities offered through University Recreation and Wellness (RecWell).

Club sports are student-led organizations recognized by the Student Government Association and supported by RecWell that compete against other schools. There are dozens of options, from ballroom dance and boxing to paintball and rugby, and 4,600 Terps joined up last year.

Faculty and staff can join as well, but some competitions are limited to participants who are enrolled students and require a tryout. There can be nominal fees depending on travel and specialty space requirements, such as for ice hockey or the equestrian team. The first step in joining is to email club contacts, who are all listed in an online directory.

Intramural sports are a great option if you want to play individually or have a group of friends ready to compete together—no tryouts necessary, Terps against Terps, with 7,000 participants last year. Team and individual/dual sports are run as leagues with regular seasons and playoffs. This fall’s offerings include 3-on-3 basketball, 7-on-7 flag football and soccer, as well as golf, spikeball and pickleball, and tournaments in dodgeball, kickball, softball and even cricket.

“They really, truly are open for everybody,” said Brianne Rowh, RecWell’s assistant director for business services and communication and marketing. “You don’t have to have come into college knowing how to fence. It’s a great way to explore a type of recreation you want to get into.”

Fitness

Looking to burn off some stress or want to take the first steps to becoming more physically active? RecWell has more than 100 fitness programs a week. There’s also the Adventure Program, which offers hiking, mountain biking, paddleboarding and other outdoor recreational opportunities, and a Challenge Course that provides team-building exercises on ropes and obstacles.

UMD students who pay the on-campus student fee can access RecWell facilities and programs with their ID card. Students not paying that fee can purchase memberships ranging from $7 daily to $471 annually; faculty and staff can buy memberships at the same rates.

More than 4,000 people participated last year, and this semester’s list can be found on this schedule. Personal training comes with fees, but the costs are far less for students, faculty and staff than they would be at off-campus gyms, Rowh said.

“Our trainers have the same certifications that a trainer would have at Equinox,” she said. “(Terps) are getting very high-quality trainers.”

Topics:

Athletics

Tags:

Health and Fitness

Schools & Departments:

Department of Intercollegiate Athletics Division of Student Affairs University Recreation and Wellness

The Terps kick off the 2022 football season at home tomorrow, taking on the Buffalo Bulls at noon. Student tickets are covered through the tuition athletic fee and can be requested online. Faculty and staff can take advantage of special pricing for this game, with upper-level tickets for $5 and lower-level tickets for $20, through this link.

What You Need to Know

All week in Maryland Today, we’ve featured important information for the campus community this semester on the following topics:

Stay alert to avoid falls that can cause serious injuries, UT Southwestern orthopedist says

DALLAS – Feb. 01, 2023 – Slipping on ice or tripping over a curb can result in broken bones or more serious injuries. To avoid taking an unexpected tumble, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and watch where you’re walking, a UT Southwestern Medical Center orthopedist advises.“When people have injuries during the winter, it commonly involves tripping over an object or slipping on ice,” said ...

DALLAS – Feb. 01, 2023 – Slipping on ice or tripping over a curb can result in broken bones or more serious injuries. To avoid taking an unexpected tumble, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and watch where you’re walking, a UT Southwestern Medical Center orthopedist advises.

“When people have injuries during the winter, it commonly involves tripping over an object or slipping on ice,” said Richard Samade, M.D., Ph.D., an Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery who specializes in hand and upper extremity surgery. “To protect themselves from greater injuries, people will instinctively stretch their hand and arm out to break their fall. Unfortunately, this leads to a decelerating force concentrated through the wrist, forearm, and elbow that often leads to injury in the small bones of those areas.”

Falls in the winter may result from climbing over snow mounds, walking on ice, or tripping over hazards covered by snow. Dr. Samade said people should take note of dark patches on pavement that may be iced over and wear appropriate footwear with good traction. Those who use a walker or cane should consider having someone walk with them in case they lose their balance.

Although falls tend to occur more frequently during the winter, hazards exist throughout the year. It’s important to pay attention to what’s ahead of you while walking rather than texting or looking down at a phone screen. Poor vision, chronic conditions, and medication use can also cause falls; using corrective lenses or walking aids and working with a health care provider to adjust medications can reduce risks.

Dr. Samade also listed outdoor work and recreational activities that can result in hand/wrist injuries during warmer months. These include gardening; construction; bicycling and scooter accidents; and falls and collisions during sports or from trees, roofs, and other heights. He recommended preventive steps such as ensuring that ladders and other elevated locations are secured, and carefully watching roads, sidewalks, and cycling paths to avoid hazards that can cause loss of control, leading to collisions and falls.

The severity of injury from a fall tends to increase with age. As we get older, bone density decreases, leading to osteoporosis or osteopenia and making fractures more likely, explained Dr. Samade. Ensuring appropriate calcium and vitamin D intake and avoiding smoking can help minimize these issues.

If you do fall, finding the appropriate care to treat the trauma is critical to prevent future complications or a worse injury.

UT Southwestern has specially trained surgeons available to treat hand and wrist injuries. To make an appointment, complete a new-patient appointment form online, call 972-954-3975, or use the MyChart portal.

About UT Southwestern Medical Center

UT Southwestern, one of the nation’s premier academic medical centers, integrates pioneering biomedical research with exceptional clinical care and education. The institution’s faculty has received six Nobel Prizes, and includes 24 members of the National Academy of Sciences, 18 members of the National Academy of Medicine, and 14 Howard Hughes Medical Institute Investigators. The full-time faculty of more than 2,900 is responsible for groundbreaking medical advances and is committed to translating science-driven research quickly to new clinical treatments. UT Southwestern physicians provide care in more than 80 specialties to more than 100,000 hospitalized patients, more than 360,000 emergency room cases, and oversee nearly 4 million outpatient visits a year.

What You Need to Know in Fall 2023: Athletics and Recreation

From the football team coming off its second straight bowl victory to field hockey opening the season with a national No. 3 ranking to both basketball squads looking to build on NCAA Tournament appearances, there’s plenty of hype surrounding Maryland Athletics this year.And outside the stadiums, Terps of all experience levels can still get their on-field or fitness fixes through a slew of offerings from University Recreation and Wellness—whether that’s with a friendly four-on-four volleyball match, a badminton battle...

From the football team coming off its second straight bowl victory to field hockey opening the season with a national No. 3 ranking to both basketball squads looking to build on NCAA Tournament appearances, there’s plenty of hype surrounding Maryland Athletics this year.

And outside the stadiums, Terps of all experience levels can still get their on-field or fitness fixes through a slew of offerings from University Recreation and Wellness—whether that’s with a friendly four-on-four volleyball match, a badminton battle or a power yoga class.

Here’s how you can take in the action and get active this fall and beyond:

Varsity AthleticsIf you’re not one of UMD’s 500-plus student-athletes, fear not! Students, faculty and staff can delve into Fear-the-Turtle fun by showing up at any Terps game free of charge with their university ID, with the exception of football and men’s basketball events.

Students can also attend those for free—the cost is covered under each semester’s activities fee—but they need to claim football and men’s basketball tickets in advance. Previously, that meant creating a student ticket account with a separate personal identification number. But now, through a simpler process put into play midway through last season, they can just use their regular UMD login credentials, said Jordan Looby, associate athletic director of marketing strategy and fan experience.

Claim periods open for football at 8 a.m. three Tuesdays before each game and close at 8 a.m. the following Thursday or until inventory is exhausted, while basketball claim periods are more irregular. (Claim periods are open now for the first three home football games.) If requests exceed supply, then a loyalty-based lottery system goes into effect; students earn more entries based on their previous attendance record for that sport that year.

Meanwhile, faculty and staff can take advantage of a 20% discount on season tickets for football (resulting in a $296 price for the lower level; $99 upper-level tickets are available to all fans) and men’s basketball ($600 lower level, $440 upper level). In addition, through its partnership with SECU, Athletics is offering all faculty and staff up to two free tickets for the football games vs. Towson (Saturday) and Charlotte (Sept. 9), with discounts available for additional tickets. A similar deal is on tap for basketball season, Looby said. For women’s basketball, employees get free general admission with the option to purchase reserved seats.

Fall sports are also offering faculty and staff appreciation games throughout the season with free or discounted admission for guests, and select employees can immerse themselves in the full game-day experience through Athletics’ “guest coaching” program.

For all fans, a few updates this season are worth cheering over: The new Field Hockey and Women’s Lacrosse Complex opens this fall, complete with updated locker rooms, sports medicine equipment and a relocated entrance to ease access to seating areas. And to the delight of UMD sports history buffs, the classic “Script Terps” football uniforms are back full-time, with the team set to sport a new black version during the Friday night game vs. Virginia on Sept. 15.

“Some of the years that we wore those uniforms are our most successful years ever as a program,” Looby said, noting how fans are abuzz about similar possibilities this season.

Club and Intramural SportsNon-varsity Terps who are craving competition themselves have ample opportunity to hit the field or court through RecWell’s dozens of club and intramural sports.

Forty-five club sports are available this year, from the traditional baseball, basketball and lacrosse to the less expected, like ballroom dance, sailing and paintball. These teams play against other schools and could pay dues and hold tryouts. Interested students, faculty and staff can email the club contacts and then complete registration through IMLeagues to join.

Intramurals, on the other hand, pit Terps vs. Terps, are free and don’t involve tryouts. Last year, 7,696 students participated, and those joining this fall can choose from five team sports, like three-on-three basketball or seven-on-seven soccer; two individual or dual sports, including golf and pickleball; and eight one-day tournaments or Terps After Dark events, like dodgeball and spikeball competitions.

“It’s a great way to find people who have a similar hobby as you, to be able to play and be in community with them,” Brianne Rowh, assistant director of business services, communication and marketing for RecWell, said of joining a team. “It’s really what you make of it.”

Students looking for an on-campus job can also become intramural sports officials—a flexible employment option, Rowh said, with applicants able to choose the sports they’re most knowledgeable about.

FitnessTerps can get their sweat on in a less competitive atmosphere by exploring RecWell’s fitness programs. Students paying the on-campus student fee can access the programs and facilities with their ID; otherwise, daily passes are $10 and annual membership is $494. Last year, 4,779 students took advantage of group fitness classes—like barre, cycling and yoga—and more than 80 such classes are available this fall.

Feeling especially daring? Drop in during this semester’s open enrollment at the Challenge Course, where Terps can try out the alpine tower, high ropes course, giant swing and “leap of faith” obstacle free of charge. Terps After Dark is also partnering with RecWell to offer a lineup of high-energy, late-night events, like neon night at the climbing wall and a crate-stacking challenge at the Challenge Course.

New this year, the Adventure Program, which offers outdoor recreational opportunities, is adding a backpacking trip along the Appalachian Trail during Thanksgiving break, and RecWell is hosting pickleball clinics for Terps to relish the quickly growing sport.

With so many rec resources and happenings, Rowh said, Terps can best keep track by following RecWell on social media.

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