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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 Duck River, TN

Home Care Duck River, TN

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 John Gordon House 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 Duck River, TN is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Duck River, TN

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The Always Best Care Difference

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

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

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

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TESTIMONIALS

“Francie, thank you so much for the brief visit. It was a pleasure to meet you and have the opportunity to give you my honest assessment of your company and Lisa in particular. From the moment I met Stacy and outlined our needs until I first met Lisa I felt comfortable and felt positive about your company and the staff. You and your staff are very sincere and compassionate. Lisa is a dream come true. She is gracious and kind and extremely well-trained. You only have to request something once and she remembers. She is thoughtful and precise about her work and helps in any way she can. She is the BEST" at her job should be held as the gold standard. Thank you for the beautiful flowers. We enjoyed them very much. Sincerely, Pam W”

Pam W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I've been working at Always Best Care Nashville for a few months now, and I can confidently say it's been a fantastic experience. The supportive and collaborative environment here truly stands out. The team is made up of dedicated professionals who genuinely care about providing the best care for our clients. If you're looking for a caring and professional organization to work for or to seek care services from, I highly recommend Always Best Care Nashville. It’s been a pleasure to be part of such a committed and compassionate team!”

Jane Y.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have had the pleasure of working with Always Best Care, and I can't speak highly enough about this amazing organization. The team is incredibly wonderful and compassionate, going above and beyond in every aspect of their work. From the very first interaction, it's clear that they truly care about their caregivers and the community they serve. Their dedication to providing top-notch senior services is evident in the genuine relationships they build and the thoughtful care they deliver.”

Liz M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“"Best care" was definitely our experience with Always Best Care Senior Services. After a family member visiting Nashville was stranded in a hotel room following a fall, we were desperate for help. Friday evening at 7PM isn't a great time to go looking for help, but Stacey jumped in and by 9PM we had the support we needed to get us to the next morning's flight back home. Our nurse Eunice was friendly, communicative, anticipated our needs and made us immediately at ease. Ours wasn't the typical case, but I'm sure the urgency and care Stacey and Eunice showed us IS typical for them!”

Dan F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We so appreciated the team at Always Best Care was amazing! Stacie listened to what I needed and helped me find just the right fit AND has continued support as I navigate all the details!! Fantastic organization!”

Sophie M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hello! I've just retired from ABC Senior Services - Philadelphia PA I was with the company for 7 years 3 months as a caregiver. I've learned much from each and every client l've served and have found the work to be very gratifying and rewarding. During my time, I have formed lasting bonds with several of my former clients and their loved ones.”

Charlene D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Amazing company!!!!”

JasperKai L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have found Always Best Care to provide exceptional service with caring, responsible Caregivers. The office communicates great with the family members involved and they are all very professional I would recommend their services to anyone looking for a great support team for their loved one.”

Brooke D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great response time! They did a great job meeting our needs.”

Susan R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I been with them for over7 years”

Ursula S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have been a caregiver for this company for 8 years plus. The office staff are incredible and the caregivers pour their whole hearts into caring for others. We're all very passionate about what we do and take so much pride in that. Love my company and highly recommend for any of your needs rather that be needing care or wanting to become a caregiver”

Bradley M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am extremely grateful for the home care services ABC offers. Their staff is absolutely phenomenal. Very professional, dependable and caring. The support staff for scheduling and billing are very courteous and easy to do business with.”

m H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’d like to take a moment to thank you and everyone at Always Best Care for the assistance and great care provided to my mother following her stroke. After a lengthy stay in a rehabilitation center, mom was very clear that she wanted to go home. The stroke had unfortunately robbed her of her independence, and to go home, we would need round-the-clock care. Always Best Care came into our family at that point and made it possible for mom to be at home for over 20 months. Maintaining continuity of care and finding the right match of caregivers is no east task. There are so many moving parts that go into making that happen day after day, and somehow your team made it look easy. Coordinating staffing around last-minute callouts, illness, incompatible personalities, holidays, family dynamics, etc. These and other challenges did arise, but the important thing is that you reliably found solutions. Through a challenging state in my mother’s life, and for our entire family, your caregiver and office staff provide the support and peace of mind we needed. We’ve been very fortunate along the way to have many wonderful caregivers, and I’ve personally enjoyed getting to know them, I want to emphasize that you have very special people on your team. Thank you for supporting our family and caring for my mother!”

Michael F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have been accessing Always Best Care’s wonderful staff in recent months to go along with my husband to doctor’s appointments. I’ve lost track of how many times, but it’s been frequent. And every one of their caregivers have been outstanding. So wonderful to know you can rely on the people at ABC!”

Cindy S.
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“Can't say enough nice things about the caregivers from ABC. Professional, personal, reliable, we feel so fortunate to be working with them.”

Larry K.
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“I was in need of someone to be with my husband for 8 hours while I had to be away from home. I was a little nervous since we had never used this type of service before. The two ladies who interviewed us and explained the procedure could not have been nicer and more professional. When the caregiver Rhonda arrived, she immediately put us at ease. She was very efficient in making sure she had my husband’s medicine doses correct and in asking questions pertinent to his Parkinson’s. When I returned home, they both seemed to have had a great time looking at my husband’s extensive photography collection and watching westerns on TV. We will most definitely use Always Best Care again!”

Margaret F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care goes above and beyond! They treat you and your loved ones like family. When faced with the difficult decisions that come along with caring for a senior, they showed compassion and helped guide us with confidence. My family can not recommend them enough!”

Allison S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“A very kind review from a client's family member that was received today. We are grateful to have such wonderful families to work with and take care of in addition to great staff like Stacey Leverette. To Whom it May Concern, I would like to recommend Always Best Care Senior Services. My experience with them has been great! My father had advanced Parkinson's disease as well as some other physical problems. He finally got to the place he needed some assistance. I contacted Stacey and she came out and met with my dad and myself. She was very knowledgeable and thoroughly answered all the questions and concerns for us. More than anything else, she calmed all the concerns that my father had. In a very short time Stacey had someone on site. We've had days where we needed to change the day or time of service because of appointments, holidays or something else. When that occurs, I simply call Stacey and give her the information and she makes the adjustments in a seamless manner. If you work with her for a little bit, you will see quickly that she is very good at what she does. It has been a very good experience. I recommend Always Best Care. Yours Sincerely, Bill A.”

Francie Y.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is an amazing company! I work at a senior living community and we love having ABC come in our community to be an extra support to our residents. Casie will take good care of you!”

Anna O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Stacey is so knowledgeable and a great resource for senior care.”

Shawn C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The best company I've ever worked for, we're all a team and strive to give the best care we possibly can to our clients and families!”

Brad M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care exceeded my expectations! Their caring staff helped make mine and my family's lives so much easier when we were in need of help! My father was well taken care of and developed a great relationship with his ABC caregiver. I highly recommend this company to anyone looking for caregiving help!”

Liz P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care exceeded my expectations! Their caring staff helped make mine and my family's lives so much easier when we were in need of help! My father was well taken care of and developed a great relationship with his ABC caregiver. I highly recommend this company to anyone looking for caregiving help!”

Libby F.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Duck River, TN?

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

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

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

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

 Senior Care Duck River, TN

Types of Elderly Care in Duck River, TN

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

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

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

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Duck River, TN
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Duck River, TN
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 Duck River Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Duck River, TN
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 River Terrace or visit Duck River Unit Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Duck River, TN

Benefits of Home Care in Duck River, TN

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 Duck River, TN, 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 Duck River, TN

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 TN'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 Duck River, TN

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 Duck River, TN 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 Duck River, TN

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 Duck River, TN

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:

  • Olive Branch Senior Living
  • The Pearl at Fairview
  • A Place For Mom - Senior Living Advisor Sarah Ellis
  • Just Like Home Senior Living
  • The Lodge at Natchez Trace
  • Optimum Senior Living
Home Care Duck River, TN

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 Duck River, TN

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 Duck River, TN 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Duck River, TN

Latest News in Duck River, TN

Tennessee park ranger shares passion for Duck River

CHAPEL HILL, Tenn. (WKRN) – The Duck River is the longest-running river in Tennessee, stretching from Coffee County to the Tennessee River in Humphreys County. Many experts consider it to be the most diverse river in North America.At Henry Horton State Park, Ranger Samantha Davenport is an expert on the river.“Here at Henry Horton, the Duck River is one of the main highlights of the park,” Davenport said. “We love to teach about it, we love to experience it. We like to bring people to it. One of the main...

CHAPEL HILL, Tenn. (WKRN) – The Duck River is the longest-running river in Tennessee, stretching from Coffee County to the Tennessee River in Humphreys County. Many experts consider it to be the most diverse river in North America.

At Henry Horton State Park, Ranger Samantha Davenport is an expert on the river.

“Here at Henry Horton, the Duck River is one of the main highlights of the park,” Davenport said. “We love to teach about it, we love to experience it. We like to bring people to it. One of the main things we like to expose people to is the recreation on the Duck River, because when you recreate whenever you come here and experience the river, you are more likely to come back and you are more likely to care about it.”

TV host, fisherman details great fishing on the Duck River

In particular, Davenport wants people to learn and care about the multitude of living creatures in the river.

In the visitor center at Henry Horton State Park, there is a large display of the river and its diversity of life.

“Whenever you think of a river, you think of fishing, right? But there are a lot of things under the surface that are a little bit smaller than fish that matter,” Davenport pointed out.

“Mussels are one of the biggest ones. What we like to say is that mussels are filter feeders and river cleaners. So, what that means is that they filter feed when they eat, and when they do that they help keep the water clean. There’s actually more kinds of fish and mussels in the Duck River than all of the streams and rivers in Europe combined,” she added.

Other aquatic species in the river include: plants, algae, snails, reptiles and insects.

Group awarded $20 million to rehabilitate Duck River

“The reason it’s so diverse is because within that 280-mile stretch in Tennessee within the Duck River, it goes through a lot of different habitats,” Davenport explained. “So, we’ve got limestone, cedar glades, obviously hardwood forests. Within that stretch, each kind of piece holds a different type of ecosystem, because of that and the mild temperatures that we have in Middle Tennessee, we’re able to host a bunch of different living animals.”

? Read today’s top stories on wkrn.com

At Henry Horton State Park, Davenport and her fellow park rangers host school field trips and teach classes to children on the river. They take great pride in educating future generations on the Duck River and how to preserve it for the future.

To learn more about Henry Horton State Park, visit their website.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.

Gov. Lee signs order to conserve Duck River, a ‘scenic treasure’ at risk

After years of advocacy from conservation groups, Gov. Bill Lee on Wednesday signed an executive order aiming to protect the Duck River, the longest and most biodiverse river in Tennessee.The scenic 269-mile waterway is renowned for hosting the largest variety of living organisms of any freshwater river in North America. But the Duck was named the ...

After years of advocacy from conservation groups, Gov. Bill Lee on Wednesday signed an executive order aiming to protect the Duck River, the longest and most biodiverse river in Tennessee.

The scenic 269-mile waterway is renowned for hosting the largest variety of living organisms of any freshwater river in North America. But the Duck was named the third-most endangered river in the nation by nonprofit environmental organization American Rivers this year due to the threat of “excessive water withdrawals” as utility companies seek to extract millions more gallons of water to supply Middle Tennessee’s fast-growing population.

“As we continue our work to balance Tennessee’s economic growth with a plan to protect our environment, preserving waters like the Duck River and enhancing water resource management statewide will be a cornerstone of our long-term conservation strategy,” Lee stated in a news release.

The order creates a partnership charged with forming watershed management recommendations that protect the river’s health as the region’s freshwater needs rise. The new 19-member Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership will also identify ways to manage drought, reduce water loss, preserve habitats and engage with local communities, utilities and industries.

The order also lays out directives for the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, which issues permits to utilities withdrawing water from the river. Lee’s administration will bring budget requests to the Tennessee General Assembly in January to fund the creation of a statewide water conservation plan and a plan specifically addressing the Duck River, the order states.

Environmentalists: Drought, water withdrawal tax river

The Duck River is the sole water source for at least 250,000 Tennesseans. Extreme drought conditions this summer drove flows in the Duck River to record lows, according to the Southern Environmental Law Center (SELC), putting the river and the dozens of species it supports in peril.

“Along with its natural beauty and incredible wealth of wildlife, the Duck River is the backbone of local economies throughout Middle Tennessee,” SELC Director George Nolan stated in a news release. “While there is still much work to be done, this order gets us closer to ensuring that both the river and nearby communities can continue to thrive for years to come.”

The SELC is appealing three permits issued by TDEC, including a permit for a new withdrawal site on the Maury-Hickman county line, seeking stricter protections. Eight utilities want to withdraw up to 73 million gallons from the river each day, 19 million gallons more than today’s limit.

The permits granted as of October allowed utilities to lose up to 25% of the water they withdraw from the river, a pain point for environmental groups and residents who live near the river. Lee’s executive order instructs TDEC to cap water loss reduction goals at 20%, but states the goals are not meant to be “punitive” but rather “to incentivize reduction of leaks and wasted water.”

The SELC points to the recent death of hundreds of freshwater mussels — which filter river water and are used as “harbingers” for river health — as a sign the river is struggling. Freshwater mussel expert Don Hubbs found 565 dead mussels at locations from Shelbyville to Columbia in July, including remains of nine federally protected endangered species.

Lee’s order states TDEC will continue developing a Habitat Conservation Plan that will specifically include “measures to avoid, minimize and mitigate impacts to endangered mussel species” and work with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency’s freshwater mussel propagation program.

Environmental groups including the SELC, The Nature Conservancy, the Tennessee Wildlife Federation, the Harpeth Conservancy and the Duck River Conservancy advocated for TDEC to lead the creation of a regional drought management plan, a task currently overseen by the Duck River Development Agency. The agency was created in 1965 to steer development along the river, and is funded by payments from water utilities based on the number of gallons the utilities sell to customers.

Under the executive order, TDEC will collaborate with the Duck River Development Agency to support its management of the river’s water resources. The department will also collaborate with the agency and others to shape a regional drought management plan that will be reviewed each decade.

Other directives for the department include:

“We are heartened that the Order acknowledges the crucial role that both water use and land management will play in this endeavor,” Nolan told Tennessee Lookout. “Governor Lee’s Order highlights the need for nature-based stormwater controls, smart urban development, and sustainable agricultural practices. We look forward to working with TDEC and the Governor’s office to explore additional land use practices that should be prioritized to protect this invaluable watershed.”

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‘We’re all excited’: Conservancy organization celebrates executive order to protect Duck River

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Governor Bill Lee recently signed an executive order to establish the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership, which aims ensure long-term sustainability of the Duck River and all of Tennessee’s watersheds.In times of low river and drought, the Duck River has looked more like a ...

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Governor Bill Lee recently signed an executive order to establish the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership, which aims ensure long-term sustainability of the Duck River and all of Tennessee’s watersheds.

In times of low river and drought, the Duck River has looked more like a gravel bar than a river. In fact, people downstream of Columbia in Hickman County have been concerned for years about the future of the Duck River.

News 2 spoke with members of the Duck River Agency about Gov. Lee’s plan. According to them, they have longed a commitment like the one that was signed on Wednesday, Nov. 19.

“We’re all excited, not just members of the Duck River Conservancy and the people in Hickman County. The people up and down the river are excited about this, pleased with the governor’s action, stepping up in a leadership role,” said Douglas E. Jones, president of Duck River Conservancy. “There has to be a regional system to protect the river. One utility can’t have the power. That’s what’s happened in the past.”

It is known that many people have moved to Middle Tennessee. In fact, researchers expect at least eight million people to reside in the Volunteer State by 2040. Due to the increase in population, officials say the Duck River is at stake, saying they can’t keep drawing water from it forever.

Some hope that one day there can be a pipeline from the Tennessee River to the Duck River Valley to help supply water to people. According to the executive order, one of the clauses pertains to “large scale engineering projects,” which could possibly include a pipeline.

The governor’s office added that the order also requires government agencies, including the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), to partner in order to identify more priority watersheds, amongst a list of other responsibilities.

“Governor Lee’s stepping up turns the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation loose so they can do their job. TDEC does an excellent job and has excellent people. And now, they can go to work in protecting the Duck River. The Duck River was at a tipping point. It’s fragile,” expressed Jones.

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“TDEC is directed to evaluate large scale engineering projects for near-term mitigation and long term sustainability of the Duck River,” he concluded. “These projects should be evaluated on a cost and feasibility basis and presented to the governor for further consideration”.

The Duck river, which spans 269 miles through Tennessee, was recently named one of America’s Most Endangered Rivers of 2024.

To read the full executive order, click here.

Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signs executive order to help protect the Duck River

The 265-mile Duck River in Middle Tennessee has been named as the most biodiverse river in North America with more than 200 species of snails, mussels and fish.Nashville TennesseanTennessee’s endangered Duck River now has another level of protection.Gov. Bill Lee on Wednesday signed an executive order establishing the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership to ...

The 265-mile Duck River in Middle Tennessee has been named as the most biodiverse river in North America with more than 200 species of snails, mussels and fish.

Nashville Tennessean

Tennessee’s endangered Duck River now has another level of protection.

Gov. Bill Lee on Wednesday signed an executive order establishing the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership to help balance population growth with the need to conserve the state’s natural resources.

The 265-mile Duck River in Middle Tennessee has been named as the most biodiverse river in North America with more than 200 species of snails, mussels and fish. It also provides drinking water for roughly 250,000 people.

This year, it was named as a top endangered river by American Rivers, due to growing demand and overconsumption.

Conservationists over the years have been fighting to preserve the river. Most recently, groups including the Southern Environmental Law Center, have pushed back on a plan to allow eight utility companies to pull an additional 19 millions gallons from the river, for a total of 73 millions gallons of water each day.

Environmentalists have said the plan would permanently damage the river’s health as it faces historic water lows.

The governor in a video announcing his executive order said state leaders must work together to preserve the watersheds.

“If and only if we think wisely about how we conserve our natural resources will our children and our grandchildren be able to paddle these rivers and fish these rivers and tag mussels in these rivers,” he said.

Under the governor's plan, the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership will work with state agencies, stakeholders and local communities on conservation and water management plans.

The Southern Environmental Law Center in a news release applauded the effort.

“Today’s executive order sets the stage for commonsense safeguards and is a first step toward ensuring that the Duck River is better protected from intensifying development pressures and changing weather patterns,” said George Nolan, director of the agency's Tennessee office. “Tennesseans should be immensely proud to have this one-of-a-kind river in their backyards, and we are thankful that Governor Lee is working on ways to protect it.”

Tennessee's Governor Lee Launches Duck River Watershed Partnership to Promote Sustainable Water Management

Source: Antony-22, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia CommonsToday marks a significant moment for environmental conservation in Tennessee as Governor Bill Lee officially enacted Executive Order 108. This new directive is set to inaugurate the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership, aimed at bolstering the state's efforts to balan...

Source: Antony-22, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Today marks a significant moment for environmental conservation in Tennessee as Governor Bill Lee officially enacted Executive Order 108. This new directive is set to inaugurate the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership, aimed at bolstering the state's efforts to balance economic advancement with the stewardship of its water resources. Governor Lee's plan received substantial attention for its focus on the Duck River, recognized as the most biologically diverse freshwater river in North America and a crucial water source for some 250,000 Tennesseans.

Amidst the scenic backdrop of the Duck River, Governor Lee emphasized the river's intrinsic value, saying, "The Duck River is not only a scenic treasure, but it is also North America's most biologically diverse freshwater river and the sole water source for thousands of Tennesseans." He went on to express the importance to swiftly act on preserving state waters like the Duck River and to enhance water resource management as a pillar of Tennessee's conservation strategy. This Initiative seeks to not only preserve the Duck River but also broadly to promote sustainable water use across Tennessee.

Under the new executive order, the Duck River Watershed Planning Partnership is tasked with several responsibilities, including the development of watershed management strategies that carefully consider the needs of communities, the local economy, and the natural ecosystem. Additionally, the Partnership is to give counsel and recommendations to a variety of state agencies and legislative leaders, fostering sustainable policy and action for the Duck River Watershed. Central to their mission, the partnership must identify opportunities to bolster local water systems, increase drought resilience, conserve habitats, and reduce water loss, as stated in the order announcement.

The Executive Order also mandates the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC), in collaboration with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA), to actively identify and manage additional priority watersheds across the state. Tasks include supporting municipal wastewater treatments, promoting statewide water supply planning, and providing aid to manage stormwater through nature-based controls. This comprehensive order intends to position Tennessee as a beacon of responsible water resource stewardship while nurturing economic and community growth.

As the state moves forward with these initiatives, stakeholders from various sectors—local governments, utilities, industry, and conservation groups—are expected to engage actively in the planning process. The engagement aims to ensure that all voices are heard and that the resulting strategies reflect a diverse range of interests and knowledge, fundamentally bound by the common goal of sustainability that resonates through the Order's vision.

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