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 Maggie L Walker National Historic Site gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.
Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Richmond, 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.
“This is years late in posting but a request on a local forum asking for”
“Outstanding professional service. Highly recommend Lynn Hancock and her team for home care or placement”
“Alden Rice was an absolutely priceless resource during a difficult time. When my sister was”
“Alden & Always Best Care are wonderful to work with. Their knowledge of the”
“Excellent choices presented tailored to our family needs and done with genuine care, sensitivity and”
“Love having a resource like Always Best Care (Alden Rice) to lead my family through”
“Lynn Hancock was awesome. She was both professional and caring. She assisted my in-laws on”
“Lynn provides a great service to families during what can be a very difficult time.”
“Words can't express the depth of my gratitude for all you have done for our”
“Words can't express the depth of my gratitude for all you have done for our”
“Thank you for all your help in the assisted living search. Your knowledge and input”
“Always Best Care has been a life-saver for me in so many different capacities for”
“Excellent staff. Attentive and compassionate. Highly recommend!”
“Lynn and her team are amazingly compassionate and professional. I would highly recommend them to”
“Working with Lynn Hancock was the best experience I ever had in my life. She”
“Compassionate, caring listeners! Very knowledgeable in their field & patient as we ask never questions.”
“Lynn and her team are amazingly compassionate and professional. I would highly recommend them to”
“Compassionate, caring listeners! Very knowledgeable in their field & patient as we ask never questions.”
“This is years late in posting but a request on a local forum asking for at home care recommendations brought this to my attention as I could relate to the poster’s position. And from hard earned experience I won’t hesitate to recommend this company. It can be confusing if you are not aware that this is a franchise and you could easily be getting valuable & FREE advice from someone like Alden and then connect with another company. I would bet that this company - just check out the owner Helen’s extensive experience with the Alzheimer’s community - is hands down the best out there. I know so much more now through years of exhaustive experience. I don’t know if I ever thanked them, but I hope my recommendation steers at least one person to this particular office and that they know how many lives they have touched. I almost never write reviews even when I feel I should, but this one is different.”
“Outstanding professional service. Highly recommend Lynn Hancock and her team for home care or placement needs.”
“Alden Rice was an absolutely priceless resource during a difficult time. When my sister was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s Disease, I was living and working full-time in Texas. I had no idea how to find housing in Richmond that would accommodate my sister’s needs and budget. Alden educated me, identified several apartments that would be a good fit for my sister, emailed pricing for all of them and then met us to tour the apartments when I visited Richmond. With Alden’s expert guidance, we found a home for my sister that met her needs. Astonishingly, we did not pay for Alden’s help. The apartments paid the fee to Always Best Care. Alden is a treasure. I could not have done it without her.”
“Alden & Always Best Care are wonderful to work with. Their knowledge of the local senior service provides and ability to match the personal needs with financial capacity is amazing. I have referred two other friends to Alden, and both have come back with glowing reviews as well. The most amazing thing is that all of this wonderful service is free to the families that need help. If you have a loved one that has reached a stage in life that they need additional help in their own home or have to face the reality of not being able to stay at home, Alden & Always Best Care should be your first call.”
“Excellent choices presented tailored to our family needs and done with genuine care, sensitivity and expert knowledge.”
“Love having a resource like Always Best Care (Alden Rice) to lead my family through this process. Being knowledgeable and patient has been two key attributes I have valued in making this difficult decision. Alden always follows up! I highly recommend this service. I wish more people knew about this.”
“Lynn Hancock was awesome. She was both professional and caring. She assisted my in-laws on two occasions to get settled in their living situations. She also worked with a close friend to give a senior parent in home assistance, allowing the family to have peace of mind with the care of their loved one. I highly recommend Lynn and Always Best Care.”
“Lynn provides a great service to families during what can be a very difficult time. Her knowledge and compassion make her great at what she does!”
“Words can't express the depth of my gratitude for all you have done for our family, and most of all, for our mom throughout her illness. In fact, I don't know what we would have done without you! Not only was your true sense of caring and concern so obvious, but you never failed to exhaust every avenue in providing sources of care for my mom, to referring me to Eric and Simon, and generally overseeing every aspect of my mother's life during her illness. For this, I and my family will be forever grateful.”
“Words can't express the depth of my gratitude for all you have done for our family, and most of all, for our mom throughout her illness. In fact, I don't know what we would have done without you! Not only was your true sense of caring and concern so obvious, but you never failed to exhaust every avenue in providing sources of care for my mom, to referring me to Eric and Simon, and generally overseeing every aspect of my mother's life during her illness. For this, I and my family will be forever grateful.”
“Thank you for all your help in the assisted living search. Your knowledge and input were invaluable in finding Hermitage. Mom is doing really well. Hospice says she doesn't need hospice. She has started physical therapy. We feel fortunate that we had already been through their process so she could transfer there from the hospital. Thanks again!”
“Always Best Care has been a life-saver for me in so many different capacities for at least 7 years....one of their phenomenal staff literally did save my life one time and they have never been anything but compassionate and caring and cannot thank everyone at ABC so much for everything!”
“Excellent staff. Attentive and compassionate. Highly recommend!”
“Lynn and her team are amazingly compassionate and professional. I would highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for someone to care for a family member or to anyone looking into retirement homes for a family member in the Richmond area. Thanks Lynn. You guys are the best!”
“Working with Lynn Hancock was the best experience I ever had in my life. She is very kind considerate. Having her as a boss was truthfully a great experience she helps her employees in times of need. She matches up the right people for each cases accordingly. I would strongly recommend working for Lynn she is the best.”
“Compassionate, caring listeners! Very knowledgeable in their field & patient as we ask never questions. Helping me & my brother tremendously by eliminating confusion & frustration. Advised and presented best options based on our family's circumstances. A huge blessing & answer to prayer that is providing much relief and assurance as we pursue tough decisions. Lynn is the best!”
“Lynn and her team are amazingly compassionate and professional. I would highly recommend them to anyone who is looking for someone to care for a family member or to anyone looking into retirement homes for a family member in the Richmond area. Thanks Lynn. You guys are the best!”
“Compassionate, caring listeners! Very knowledgeable in their field & patient as we ask never questions. Helping me & my brother tremendously by eliminating confusion & frustration. Advised and presented best options based on our family's circumstances. A huge blessing & answer to prayer that is providing much relief and assurance as we pursue tough decisions. Lynn is the best!”
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 Great Shiplock Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Bookbinder's Seafood & Steakhouse or visit Monument Avenue Historic District, 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 Richmond, 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 Richmond, 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 Richmond, 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.
Come Grab a Slice Downtown!Life is better with pizza! Check out our list of the best pizza in Richmond, VA.Billy Pie212 W. 6th Street (Within Basic City RVA)Billy Pie, located within Basic City RVA, specializes in simply crafted pizza, antipasti, and salads. You can also find their specialty pies in the frozen section of several groceries downtown, they’re just that good!Neighborhood: ManchesterHours: Wednesday-Friday, 3-9 PM; Saturday, 12-9 PM; Sunda...
Life is better with pizza! Check out our list of the best pizza in Richmond, VA.
Billy Pie, located within Basic City RVA, specializes in simply crafted pizza, antipasti, and salads. You can also find their specialty pies in the frozen section of several groceries downtown, they’re just that good!
Neighborhood: Manchester
Hours: Wednesday-Friday, 3-9 PM; Saturday, 12-9 PM; Sunday, 12-8 PM
In the heart of Shockoe Bottom just beside the Canal Walk, Bottom’s Up Pizza has been slinging out gourmet pizza for 31 years. Stop by to try their classics, monthly specials, or build a pizza your favorite way with gluten-free and vegan options!
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11 AM-10 PM; Friday-Saturday, 11 AM-11 PM; Sunday, 11 AM-9 PM
Ready, set, pizza! Ironclad Sports Bar and Grill serves up fresh slices and pies to enjoy during the big game. Grab your friends and head to Manchester to enjoy a tasty slice, an outgoing atmosphere and an outdoor patio.
Neighborhood: Manchester
Hours: Monday-Tuesday, 11 AM-12 AM; Wednesday, 11 AM-1 AM; Thursday-Sunday, 11 AM-2 AM
Since 2000, Brooklyn native Enrico "Jo-Jo" Armetta has been feeding downtown Richmond’s workforce incredible dough! Their lunch specials from 11 AM-3 PM are unbeatable and too good to pass up. Order ahead or stop by to enjoy a quick slice or a full pie with the best lunch deals downtown!
Hours: Monday-Friday, 9 AM-3 PM
In the mood for delicious and affordable pizza south of the James? La Vera Pizza uses only the freshest ingredients for its scratch-made specials for a memorable piece of pie you won't forget.
Neighborhood: Manchester
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 10 AM-9:30 PM; Friday-Saturday, 10:30 AM-10:30 PM
Craving a slice of New York? Pizza Place has you covered with its traditional New York style pizzas. Each slice is made fresh daily, hand-tossed and baked in a hotter-than-hot brick oven for a charred and crispy thin crust. It’s the perfect place for a late night bite since they are open until atleast 2:30 AM everyday!
Hours: Monday-Wednesday, 11:15-2:30 AM; Thursday, 11:30 -2:30 AM; Saturday -Sunday, 2 PM-3 AM
Valentino’s prides itself on providing quick and delicious service. This downtown destination is your one-stop shop to satisfy any pizza lover's appetite. Try their speedy take-out or delivery options throughout Richmond, Virginia.
Hours: Monday-Thursday, 11 AM-12 AM; Friday, 11 AM-3 AM; Saturday, 12 PM-3 AM; Sunday, 12 PM-12 AM
The James River is a beautiful recreational river with Class II, III and IV rapids in an urban setting, making it a fantastic resource for activity of all kinds!Find Outdoor Adventure Along the James RiverKayaking, rafting, mountain biking and more adventures along the James River are waiting for you to try in downtown Richmond.Walking Paths and Running Trails in Downtown Richmond, VAWith the Virginia Capital Trail anchoring the eastern end of downtown Richmond’s riv...
The James River is a beautiful recreational river with Class II, III and IV rapids in an urban setting, making it a fantastic resource for activity of all kinds!
Kayaking, rafting, mountain biking and more adventures along the James River are waiting for you to try in downtown Richmond.
With the Virginia Capital Trail anchoring the eastern end of downtown Richmond’s riverfront, and Belle Isle to the west, visitors have access to several miles of downtown trails and pathways.?
The historic Canal Walk is the 1.25-mile centerpiece of downtown Richmond’s riverfront. Enjoy a romantic after-dinner walk with the city skyline lights all around you; or, stroll through history, interacting with the exhibits and public art, and learn more about Richmond when you read the historic markers. Walk or run anytime and anywhere along the Canal Walk, through the adjoining Shockoe Slip neighborhood, or along the Virginia Capital Trail. Or, make a break for the wild side of downtown and head to the James River Park System’s North Bank Trail, Buttermilk Trail or a lap around Belle Isle.?
Enjoy your runner’s high on the 22 miles of trails that can be found along the James River. Some of the favorite places for runners downtown are the Canal Walk, Floodwall Walk and Belle Isle. Check out RVA’s running community at Richmond Road Runner's Club or borrow a pooch with Richmond SPCA's Running Buddies program. If you prefer organized races and walks, there are also a number of annual events in Richmond that start, end, or intersect along downtown’s James River and on Brown’s Island.
Mountain Biking
Richmond’s mountain bike trail system, comprised of trails along the James River are among the best in the nation. Downtown Richmond alone has 20 miles of trails. You’ll find it hard to find another downtown on the East Coast with a better variety of mountain biking opportunities!?
Bicycle Skills Area
The Belle Isle bicycle skills area is the best place in the James River Park System to polish your technique to master the more than 20 miles of local mountain bike trails. The skills area consists of beginner to intermediate obstacles, such as logs, rock gardens and drop-offs. It also includes a beginner and full-size pump track for improving your rhythm and stamina. The park is easily accessible and perfect for riders of all ages. Opens at sunrise and closes at sunset.?
For bike advocacy information and issues in Richmond, check out Bike Walk RVA. For an introduction to our city’s bike culture, check out BreakawayRVA. For more information regarding cycling through the city, check out our bike resources and downtown transportation options here.
The James River drops 105 feet in elevation between Bosher’s Dam at Richmond’s western edge to where the tides begin at Mayo’s Bridge. This seven miles — the Falls of the James — is home to America’s best urban whitewater. From Bosher’s Dam to Reedy Creek, the rapids are mostly Class I and II. Below Reedy Creek, the downtown Richmond rapids challenge even experienced boaters with narrow runs through Class III and IV water.?
City Boat Landings and Launch Areas:
For kayak or stand up paddleboard (SUP) rentals with Waterfront RVA, visit their website. For walk-up, day-of kayak and SUP rentals with Waterfront RVA, visit their on-site location near Brown’s Island at 415 Tredegar Street, every day from May through October, 12:00pm to 6:00pm.
Whether you’re after a thrill ride in Class III to IV whitewater or interested in a more relaxing whitewater rafting experience, the James River has what you’re looking for! You’ll quickly see why Richmond was named Outdoor Magazine’s “Best River Town” in 2012.?
Riverside Outfitters offers rafting trips on smaller rapids for ages 5+, and trips on the bigger rapids for ages 10+. They’ve got rides through the big rapids that last about 1 hour for folks with only a little free time, and adventures that last 3-4 hours with lunch out on an island for folks with more time to unplug.
Riverside Outfitters is located downtown at 325 S. 14th Street. Find a "Reserved for Riverside" parking spot in their customer parking lot and check in at the front desk.?
RVA Paddlesports offers whitewater kayak and rafting instruction for all levels of paddlers. Whether it's your first time in a boat, or you want to paddle a multi-day trip overseas, RVA Paddlesports offers adventure programs for everyone. Take part in their Raft Guide Training, Sierra Rescue River Rescue Certification, and Kayaking classes!
Even if you are a beginner on a bike or just looking to take a stroll, the Virginia Capital Trail offers something for everyone. Beginning downtown in Shockoe Bottom at the floodwall doors at S. 17th Street, the trail parallels the historic James River and Kanawha Canal in a flat, urban landscape, then continues eastward to more rural vistas. The 52-mile mixed-use path connects Richmond’s downtown to Jamestown, for those who decide to enjoy the trail in its entirety. Along the way, you’ll find amenities like benches for resting, repair stations, portable restrooms and rain shelters.
The James River in downtown Richmond is a great place to fish. The Fall Line creates different fishing environments ranging from flat water to rapids with lots of deep pools. You’ll find a variety of catfish, bass, sunfish, gar, carp, shad and herring. Recently, sturgeons have returned to the river.?
March, April and May are popular fishing months when shad, perch, stripers and herring are migrating upstream to freshwater. When these spawning runs are underway, you can see anglers fishing from boats, the shore, bridges and on the rocks in the river. Some big, trophy-sized fish have been hooked in the James; jumbo stripers up to 30 pounds, largemouth bass up to 7 pounds, smallmouth bass up to 5 pounds, blue catfish up to 102 pounds and more. According to John Bryan, who has written a lot about fishing in the James, “Several fish over 50 pounds are caught every week throughout the year.”
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Suzi Lindquist grew up playing ice hockey with her neighbors and brother. Once her high school created a field hockey team, she joined that, too.She graduated from Henrico High School in 2008 as a standout athlete, later being inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024.After college, she moved to Sweden. It was there she was introduced to a new sport she hadn’t heard of before.“They were like, you should try this other sport, it’s called floorball,” Lindq...
RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - Suzi Lindquist grew up playing ice hockey with her neighbors and brother. Once her high school created a field hockey team, she joined that, too.
She graduated from Henrico High School in 2008 as a standout athlete, later being inducted into the school’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2024.
After college, she moved to Sweden. It was there she was introduced to a new sport she hadn’t heard of before.
“They were like, you should try this other sport, it’s called floorball,” Lindquist said.
Floorball originated in Sweden in the early 1970s and is widely played in the Nordic countries. It made its way to the U.S. around 20 years ago. The sport is similar to hockey, with a few key differences. Players use sneakers instead of skates and play with a plastic ball rather than a puck.
For Lindquist, the transition was immediate and exhilarating.
“Within 10 minutes, I was out of breath because I was just playing with so many good people and I was having so much fun,” she said.
Lindquist said she never looked back. She later joined France’s national floorball league and was recruited to play for the U.S. Women’s National Floorball Team.
She has since played in two World Floorball Championships with Team USA and is now preparing for her third.
However, the team faces a significant financial hurdle.
“With Team USA, we don’t have that centrally funded organization like other European countries do,” Lindquist explained.
Each player has about $3,000 in costs to cover.
That’s where a local team of floorballers are stepping up to help.
The Richmond Floorball Club was founded just last year. The club keeps everything inexpensive, often providing the balls and sticks needed to play.
Keeping the sport accessible, Baldaino says, encourages as many people as possible to play.
It currently meets every Monday at the Barton Memorial Rink at 7 p.m. for 30 minutes of free play. The rest of the night is made up of scrimmages, which cost a few dollars.
“This Monday, we will put all those fees that people pay to the U.S. women’s team,” Nick Baldaino, Richmond Floorball Club president, said.
Baldaino noted that Floorball is growing locally, with one of the largest groups of female players in the country. Supporting Team USA was an easy decision for the club.
“It’s really about knowing that this exists and that women are successful in it,” Baldaino said.
For Lindquist, the community support means everything.
“Every penny counts and is really valued from our team,” Lindquist said.
All of the money will go into the club’s GoFundMe account. As of Wednesday, the club raised around $4,000 of the $50,000 it needs.
The fundraiser will take place at the Barton Memorial Rink on Monday, Oct. 13, starting at 7 p.m. The floorball club welcomes anyone interested in supporting the team or learning about the sport.
The Women’s World Floorball Championships are in Czechia from Dec. 6-14.
RICHMOND, Va. — For more than a week, something was off at the Lowe's on Broad Street in Richmond.Francine, the famous feline that has lived inside the store for nearly a decade, had disappeared."I was really upset when she went missing," VCU student and Francine fan Madison Hofman said. "I'm really happy that she's back."After discovering Francine had boarded a Lowe's truck bound for a North Carolina distribution center, two Richmond Lowe's employees made the 90-minute drive Monday to retrieve ...
RICHMOND, Va. — For more than a week, something was off at the Lowe's on Broad Street in Richmond.
Francine, the famous feline that has lived inside the store for nearly a decade, had disappeared.
"I was really upset when she went missing," VCU student and Francine fan Madison Hofman said. "I'm really happy that she's back."
After discovering Francine had boarded a Lowe's truck bound for a North Carolina distribution center, two Richmond Lowe's employees made the 90-minute drive Monday to retrieve the four-legged star.
Francine's story captivated thousands of people in Central Virginia and around the world.
"It's pretty surreal seeing how many people are really invested in her journey and her coming back she's kind of a Richmond celebrity everybody that I know, knows Francine," Hofman said.
"I knew they would find her, I knew they would find her, everybody on the East Coast was looking for her," VCU student Michael Griner said.
Lowe's rolled out the blue carpet to welcome Francine home.
Wednesday, fans gathered at Francine Fest, a fundraiser event held at Mainline Brewery in Richmond.
"The proceeds, I believe are benefiting the Richmond SPCA since they also assisted," Caitlin Stallings, with Richmond Animal Care and Control, said. "They've got a lot going on with musicians, food trucks, and all kinds of stuff. So if anybody wants to make a donation for a shelter, it will be gladly accept."
That's a lot for a cat who, before the party, couldn't be bothered with all of the extra attention.
Stallings said it's simply a testament to how Richmond loves animals.
"I think it's a beautiful showcasing of our community here in Richmond and how we are a community of pet lovers but we take care of our own," Stallings said.
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Share: Several weeks of desperate searching. Thermal drones. Professional trackers. Video surveillance.The teams at Lowe’s West Broad Street store in Richmond, Virginia, Lowe’s regional distribution center in Garysburg, North Carolina and leaders across Lowe’s corporate office did everything they possibly could to locate their missing cat, Francine, in partnership with the Richmond community.And on Sunday, Oct. 5, when she jumped into the waiting arms of associate Wayne Schneider, that...
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Several weeks of desperate searching. Thermal drones. Professional trackers. Video surveillance.
The teams at Lowe’s West Broad Street store in Richmond, Virginia, Lowe’s regional distribution center in Garysburg, North Carolina and leaders across Lowe’s corporate office did everything they possibly could to locate their missing cat, Francine, in partnership with the Richmond community.
And on Sunday, Oct. 5, when she jumped into the waiting arms of associate Wayne Schneider, that initial reunion said it all.
“She looked at us,” Schneider said, “and gave this big meow like, ‘What took you so long?’ ”
Oh, Francine.
Let’s just say the story only adds to her growing legend as the unofficial mascot for her city and star of the Lowe’s store she calls home.
It all began when Francine, a stray cat who began living at the Lowe’s in Richmond eight years ago, went missing in the middle of September. In the process of trying to locate her, it became clear she hopped onto a truck that was headed to the Lowe’s distribution center in Garysburg, roughly 85 miles south of her home in Richmond.
North Hampton County Animal Control set humane traps at the distribution center and signs and flyers with Francine’s picture were posted throughout every corner of the facility. Everyone was on high alert.
“From the start, we knew we’d do whatever it took to bring Francine home,” said Store Manager Mike Sida. “She’s part of who we are here.”
Francine has been described as “a beacon of the community,” and customers often visit the West Broad Street store to simply pay her a visit.
So this search quickly grew into a community-wide effort.
In addition to the 246 cameras already monitoring the distribution center, Lowe’s brought in thermal drones to scan the area. Lowe’s asset protection team monitored every lead, while operations continued safely and smoothly.
Days passed, and reports of possible sightings trickled in, but nothing could be confirmed. The community took notice, and Lowe’s reached out to experts to support its efforts.
Then, on the evening of Oct. 4, a familiar face appeared on camera near the distribution center.
It was Francine.
“I can’t describe the feeling when we realized it was her,” said Sida, Lowe’s store manager. “We all just lit up.”
Sida and Schneider immediately gathered a small team and traveled to the distribution center. They brought along Francine’s favorite food and her dish, knowing the familiar rattle might draw her out.
Meanwhile, additional cameras and seven additional humane traps were installed, with Lowe’s maintenance associate Robert Keeter volunteered to check each trap through the night.
A little before midnight, their feline friend emerged. Francine was outside one of the traps, but didn’t go in.
Moments later, a trap triggered.
Francine was safe and sound, meowing to let everyone know she was ready to put an end to this adventure and go home to Richmond.
“When I received the text that we got her and she was safe, I just couldn’t stop smiling,” said Schneider.
At 4 a.m. on Monday, Schneider and Sida got in their car and made the 90-minute drive to Garysburg to pick up Francine.
“We were so excited the whole ride – it didn’t matter how early it was. We were going to bring her home,” Schneider said.
For the store team at West Broad Street and the passionate community members who pitched in, that was always going to be the outcome.
And in the end, it’s more than a feel-good moment – it’s an example of what community and love look like in action.
Soon, Francine will be back to her routine: greeting customers, exploring the aisles and soaking up more affection than ever.
“We care for Francine so much, and we’re so thankful for everyone who helped, from our associates to animal control and our neighbors,” Sida said. “She’s more than our store cat – she’s part of our family.”
Lowe’s would like to express sincere thanks to the following community partners who helped find Francine: Northampton County Animal Shelter, Thermal Bird, Carmen Brothers Professional Pet Trappers, Richmond SPCA, Richmond Animal Care and Control (RACC), SOS Cats RVA and Best Friends.
804-368-3200
