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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

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 Ruffin, NC

Home Care Ruffin, NC

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 Bennett Place 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 Ruffin, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Ruffin, NC

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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

“When the time arose to find a live-in care facility for my uncle, I was referred to Stephen Carlson with ABC. I am so grateful to Stephen for taking me to tour the available facilities so promptly, making introductions, answering my questions, and doing it all within the framework of what would work best for my uncle in his current situation. It was very hard to make the final decision but Stephen was so kind, patient, and helpful during this difficult time. It would have been nearly impossible for me to have made it through this uncharted territory without his compassionate assistance. You have my sincere thanks for all the time and help!”

Just M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I wish there was 10 stars for the excellent care, dedication to our mom and our family. Words truly cannot express our gratitude, for everything Stephen Carlson has done to assist us. His knowledge, caring, and dedication to finding the right place has truly been remarkable. Thank you.”

Sue C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Mary Witherspoon is amazing! She has cared for both my parents and is a part of the family now. Highly recommend Always Best Care.”

Cathy D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC is a great company that cares about their employees. The pay is good and everyone in the office is extremely helpful. It’s easy to get time off, (just let them know 2 weeks ahead of time). We have monthly in-service & education is offered in person or via zoom. We are given the tools we need to succeed.”

Laraine T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I like working at ABC because I get a chance to help other.”

Ginne R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hi my name Amiya and I have been working for ABC for almost 4 months now. I really love this job because it’s very flexible especially since I’m a full time college student. It’s really hard to find jobs like this and if you need days they don’t mind as long your attendance isn’t bad. They are also very understanding. It’s really a great job and I love helping people.”

Amiya
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TESTIMONIALS

“Everyone is nice and friendly when you have an issue they are quick to respond”

Pamela P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I bn with this company for Abt a year and I love working for them . They work with you,they care about ur personal life/ problems, really good at matching you with good clients..”

Ffbjj B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have to brag on Stephen and the Always Best Care team. They are always out in the community lending a helping hand and giving back. That is so important for a company to do when they're trying to build trust. I really appreciate Stephens kind and caring nature especially when it comes to those that need his assistance. Thank you ABC keep up the good work!”

Nichole S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of the Always Best Care team! Working here has been an immensely rewarding experience. The positive and collaborative atmosphere within the company has made every day enjoyable. I am grateful to have a supportive management team who values the contributions of each team member and fosters a culture of mutual respect. My coworkers are not just colleagues; they are like family. Together, we create a dynamic and uplifting work environment. Always Best Care truly prioritizes the well-being of their employees, clients, families, and community which is reflected in the quality of care we provide to our seniors. The commitment to excellence is evident in every aspect of the organization. I wholeheartedly recommend Always Best Care as both a fantastic place to work and a reliable service for seniors in need.”

Jacob N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Jaye has been a great caregiver for my Mom. Jaye writes detailed care notes about Mom's day so that we know what is going on even if we live out of town. She goes the extra mile to get Mom out in the sun when the weather is nice and she paints Mom's fingernails, which Mom enjoys. Jaye doesn't hesitate to contact us if Mom needs something or if she has questions. We feel lucky to have her.”

C P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We would like to give a shout out to some of the caregivers. We are thankful to have Ms Loretta as a caregiver, she’s very giving, a sweet person, and she works very hard to help us. Such a blessing for Mike and myself. Taylor has such a contagious smile and is so calming for Mike. Always willing to help out however he can. A blessing to us. Tena jumps right in right away as she arrives and is so caring , willing to do whatever task to help ensure all is taken care of and cared for while she’s here. What a blessing Tonya has been for Mike, a contagious caring attitude and willingness to step in and takeover with all things while she’s here. So thankful she’s been put on our caregiver schedule.”

Susie
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TESTIMONIALS

“We are thankful to have Ms Loretta as a caregiver, she’s very giving, a sweet person, and she works very hard to help us. Such a blessing.”

Susie
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have used Always Best for 2 years for my Dad before he passed & now 2 years for my Mom. They are the best! Laura J. With Always Best is phenomenal. She is always pleasant & prompt. She is always willing to go a step beyond to help my Mom in every way with the best attitude!”

KDAOH
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great staff members to work with from the beginning. Meaning, the recruiter, hiring manager, receptionist, and scheduler. Schedulers are magnificent at finding and replacing hours if needed All staff (including caregivers) REALLY care about thier clients. ????”

Laura J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We used Always Best Care Senior Services to assist with 24/7 care in the home of my mother in law. We had used 4 different agencies prior to Always Best, they were exceptional. The quality, compassionate care of the care givers was unmatched and if there was ever a call out - a substitute was sent with in 2 hours. Such peace of mind! I was so impressed with the organization that I ended shifting trajectories in my career and now I am an employee. It was the best decision I ever made! I don't know what took me so long to change! I can not say enough good things about the organization as a consumer and an employee. The Loy family does an amazing job of leading a team of kind, compassionate, caring care givers who give exceptional service.”

Kathleen O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sara Bynum is the best example of a CAREGIVER! Caring is her specialité..She is always prompt, cheerful, patient, industrious, generous, personable, organized, and, additionally, has a delightful sense of humor. I can't sing her praises loud enough!”

Aileen T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our family has been pleased with ABC services, thankful for a company to be able to rely on for my Dad's care.”

T C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’m in need of a caregiver for my son and Always Best Senior Care is one of the companies that I contacted. Although they were unable to provide services to us (through no fault of their own) mallory trip time to refer us to a company, including phone number to contact for services. She was very helpful, kind, and attentive to our needs. I appreciate the time they took to assist me the best way they could.”

Lisa L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am writing for my mother Alice Pearce. We are very happy with the care provided by Jaye. She goes above and beyond in providing loving care for our mother. She always has a good handoff with the previous caregiver and the subsequent caregiver, making sure they know how mother is and what she needs. Mother loves a shower and Jaye is thoughtful in fitting them in when mother wants one and always has her presentable for family visits. She is a good cook and is sensitive to what mother will enjoy, so her appetite is better on Jaye's shift. She is a good communicator with the family and always puts in informative shift notes. She has technical skills. Recently, the facility got a new wifi and she updated the equipment so it all worked. I usually get those calls and she fixed everything without my involvement. She is very flexible and will stay late and take on extra shifts at the last minute. We are indeed fortunate that she is caring for our dear mother.”

Alice P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Caregivers (Raina & Aiyana) are very caring and helpful to my father's needs,”

Linda L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Caring staff. Patient portal for family. Quick replacement/fill in caregiver.”

Stephany T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Britiany has been caring for my mom almost 4 years. She is so kind and patient and willing to help in any way she can. We value Britiany and think of her as family now. We have been so pleased the way in which Always Best Care has worked with us.”

Jeannie H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My husband's caregiver Taylor is so very patient with him. She does her work without supervision. We are proud to have her in our home. Sincerely, Jack & Lou”

Jack H.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Ruffin, NC?

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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 Ruffin, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Ruffin, NC

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 Ruffin, NC
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 Ruffin, NC
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 Brumley Nature Preserve Northern Part 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 Ruffin, NC
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 The Fearrington House Restaurant or visit Ayr Mount, 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 Ruffin, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Ruffin, NC

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 Ruffin, NC, 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 Ruffin, NC

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 NC'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 Ruffin, NC

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 Ruffin, NC 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 Ruffin, NC

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 Ruffin, NC

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:

  • Carrie's Adult Care
  • Rudd Ridge Road Assisted Family
  • G Anthony Rucker Rest Home
Home Care Ruffin, NC

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 Ruffin, NC

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 Ruffin, NC 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 Ruffin, NC

Latest News in Ruffin, NC

NC Supreme Court removes portrait of slave owner ex-justice

This is a modal window.No compatible source was found for this media.Court workers take down portrait of former NC chief justiceThe North Carolina Supreme Court on Wednesday removed a portrait of a former chief justice from its courtroom who staunchly defended slavery and owned slaves himself.Thomas Ruffin, a slave owner in the 1800s, believed an owner's power over his slave was absolute. He once wrote in a court ruling that slaveholders should not be convicted for the assault or battery of an enslaved person....

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Court workers take down portrait of former NC chief justice

The North Carolina Supreme Court on Wednesday removed a portrait of a former chief justice from its courtroom who staunchly defended slavery and owned slaves himself.

Thomas Ruffin, a slave owner in the 1800s, believed an owner's power over his slave was absolute. He once wrote in a court ruling that slaveholders should not be convicted for the assault or battery of an enslaved person.

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The court's decision to remove the portrait took note of Ruffin's slave ownership and his rulings defending slavery. Its announcement said Ruffin was regarded by his contemporaries as “particularly brutal in his ownership of slaves.”

The decision followed a recommendation made last week by the Advisory Commission on Portraits, which the court formed in 2018 in response to calls for the portrait's removal.

A smaller portrait of Ruffin was removed from an Orange County courthouse earlier this year, as was a statue of him from the entrance of the state Court of Appeals building. The appeals building was once named after him.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill's Board of Trustees voted in July to remove references to Ruffin from the campus. But the name Ruffin Residence Hall remains in honor of his son, Thomas Ruffin Jr., who also was a Supreme Court justice.

Outgoing state Supreme Court Justice Cheri Beasley said in a statement that a Supreme Court seal will replace Ruffin’s portrait in the court. Beasley is the second Black chief justice in the court's history.

“It is important that our courtroom spaces convey the highest ideals of justice and that people who come before our Court feel comfortable knowing that they will be treated fairly,” Beasley wrote. She called the decision to remove the portrait “a tremendous reflection of the progress that has been made since the time Chief Justice Ruffin served on the Court.”

Ruffin served on the North Carolina Supreme Court from 1829 to 1852 and again from 1858 to 1859. He wrote an opinion that overturned the conviction of a slave owner, John Mann, for shooting in the back a slave named Lydia who fled after refusing the owner’s orders. Ruffin wrote that a slave’s obedience “is the consequence only of uncontrolled authority over the body.”

Ruffin McNeill, NC State were 'put here together for a reason'

247Sports Embed ResourceRALEIGH, N.C. -- For nearly every player on the NC State roster, the morning starts the exact same way -- running by the "OG."That's the nickname for Ruffin McNeill, who has now been a member of the NC State coaching staff for more than two years. Since the day he was hired on July 7, 2020, McNeill has been a light for the program in his role as a Special Assistant to the Head Coach in every tang...

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RALEIGH, N.C. -- For nearly every player on the NC State roster, the morning starts the exact same way -- running by the "OG."

That's the nickname for Ruffin McNeill, who has now been a member of the NC State coaching staff for more than two years. Since the day he was hired on July 7, 2020, McNeill has been a light for the program in his role as a Special Assistant to the Head Coach in every tangible way possible.

While there are several things he's not allowed to do in his advisory role, the "OG" has a special bond with the entire team that can be seen every time they run out onto the practice field. In the most recent episode of NC State All-Access on the ACC Network, McNeill could be seen in his golf cart being hugged by veteran players like Isaiah Moore and true freshman Torren Wright.

There is no relationship too big or too small for McNeill, and that's what made him want to come to Raleigh in the first place to work under Dave Doeren.

"I work straight with coach Doeren, but also with the players," McNeill told Pack Pride. "They stop by and talk and have conversations and they ask me about the shared experiences that I've been able to be a part of. ... We have a great relationship that's built on trust and verification of trust. I know the coaches and coach Doeren trust me, but they verify my trust.

"And just as importantly with the players, we have trust and a verification of trust. They know if they come and visit me that I'm gonna tell them the absolute truth. When they come to me for answers or suggestions or whatever I may provide, they know I'm there for them."

The coaching journey for McNeill is well known at this point, after spending more than 40 years in the profession. After spending four years as a cornerback at East Carolina -- three years as a starter, two as a captain -- McNeill climbed his way up the coaching ranks starting out as an assistant at Lumberton High.

McNeill made stops at several programs like Clemson, Appalachian State, UNLV, Fresno State and Texas Tech before landing back with his alma mater as the head coach in 2010. After leading the program to three straight seasons with eight or more wins from 2012-14 -- including the second 10-win campaign in school history -- McNeill was fired by the Pirates.

The first person to call McNeill after he was let go by East Carolina? That came from Dave Doeren.

He's since gone on to be the Associate Head Coach at both Virginia and Oklahoma and continued to enjoy a successful career at both stops. But when his father was diagnosed with dementia, McNeill had to make the hardest decision of his life in stepping away from coaching.

The first call he received after the news went public? It once again came from Doeren.

"Not the second, but the very first phone call," McNeill said on the ACC Network segment.

Doeren knew all about the path McNeill was about to embark on. His father has battled with Alzheimer's disease while McNeill was moving back home to be closer to his father for similar reasons. It wasn't until later that McNeill received another phone call from Doeren to offer him a job back in the coaching profession.

"Dave knew I was coming home, so he called and arranged a position to come be an assistant to him," McNeill explained on the All-Access episode, "I couldn't think of a more perfect way to keep my mind busy. ... We were put here together for a reason at this time. I know that it was for more than just football."

One of the driving factors for Doeren simply reaching out to McNeill was their long history together. Though they had never coached on the same staff, they had a history that dated back to 1999 when Doeren was a graduate assistant at USC and McNeill was the defensive line coach at Fresno State.

The two also coached in the Big 12 together from 2002-05 with Doeren at Kansas and McNeill at Texas Tech. During Doeren's first three years at NC State, McNeill was the head coach at ECU. Getting that type of leadership on the sidelines with an already loaded 10-person coaching staff is not something that Doeren takes lightly.

"The biggest thing is just how Ruff treats people," Doeren said. "Everybody that he meets is his best friend. They walk in and he's just got a real warm way of treating people and respecting people. I just love that about him. ... His value cannot be quantitated for me because of the relationship and the way he looks after us."

So where does that infectious personality come from? It's been his entire way of life for as long as he can remember from his parents.

"I go back to my mom and dad, Bonnie and Ruffin McNeill, who raised me and my brother, Reggie, making sure we learn to serve," McNeill said. "Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on the face of this earth. I live by that quote by Shirley Chisholm. I think my role is to serve and I'm honored -- beyond honored -- to be able to do that and very humbled.

"People that know me know I like being in the background. I want other people to succeed and get praised."

After two highly successful years since he joined the program, the "OG" is set to head back to East Carolina in less than two weeks for the first time on the sidelines for NC State. Though it's a position he didn't see ever happening, it's one he's embracing as he helps drive home the culture for the Wolfpack alongside Doeren.

"Ten years ago, I never would've imagined I'd be working here," McNeill said. "But I'm glad I am now. I love what I'm doing, I love coaching and I love serving these young men."

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New details emerge after men accused of tying up, hurting teenage girl in Ruffin

This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.RUFFIN, N.C. — The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office released new details after two men were arrested and accused of tying up a teenage girl during a home invasion.At about 12;30 p.m. , deputies responded to a ...

This is an archived article and the information in the article may be outdated. Please look at the time stamp on the story to see when it was last updated.

RUFFIN, N.C. — The Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office released new details after two men were arrested and accused of tying up a teenage girl during a home invasion.

At about 12;30 p.m. , deputies responded to a home invasion in Ruffin.

At the scene, investigators learned a teenage girl was home alone when two men wearing gloves and masks forced their way into the home.

The men reportedly hit the girl with a mason jar.

The suspects then allegedly tied her hands with the cord of a flat iron, her feet with a cellphone charger cord and used a third cord to hogtie her.

They wanted her to unlock her cellphone and used a butcher knife to cut her fingers to get her to unlock the phone, the mother said.

During the home invasion, the suspects took video games, consoles, jewelry boxes, old cellphones, alcohol, cigarettes, TVs and firearms from the home before leaving in a vehicle.

Once the robbers left, the girl was able to untie herself and call 911.

She is expected to recover from her injuries.

While investigating, detectives learned the identities of two suspects.

Detectives went undercover and began surveillance of the two Wednesday morning.

Shiheem Dashan Williamson, 24, of Ruffin left his home to pick up Maurice Alexande Williamson, 49, of Reidsville. Deputies say the vehicle matched the description of the car connected to the home invasion in Ruffin.

As the car crossed into Guilford County, Rockingham County deputies notified deputies in Guilford County.

When the vehicle stopped on the 7600 block of Caber Road in Browns Summit, deputies saw the two suspects reportedly try to break into the home.

When investigators identified themselves and tried to stop the break-in, one of the suspects allegedly tried to hide in the home. The other suspect ran into the woods.

Maurice Williamson was found hiding in the attic, and Shiheem Williamson was found after a manhunt.

They were both charged in connection with the Caber Road break-in by the Guildford County Sheriff’s Office.

They were then taken to the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Magistrate where they were both charged with second-degree kidnapping, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting injury, felony breaking and entering and felony larceny after breaking and entering.

Shiheem Williamson received a $500,000 secured bond. Maurice Williamson received a $250,000 secured bond.

Investigators searched both suspects’ homes and reportedly found stolen items from several break-ins, including the Ruffin home invasion.

Lumberton native Ruffin McNeill joins NC State football staff

RALEIGH — Lumberton native Ruffin McNeill is returning to an in-state football program as North Carolina State announced Tuesday it had hired the former East Carolina head coach and Oklahoma assistant on its football staff as a special assistant to the head coach.The school said the job would serve as an advisor head coach Dave Doeren. Duties include assisting player development analysis, leading special projects and outreach to alumni, campus and community groups.“I’ve known Ruffin since the beginning of my c...

RALEIGH — Lumberton native Ruffin McNeill is returning to an in-state football program as North Carolina State announced Tuesday it had hired the former East Carolina head coach and Oklahoma assistant on its football staff as a special assistant to the head coach.

The school said the job would serve as an advisor head coach Dave Doeren. Duties include assisting player development analysis, leading special projects and outreach to alumni, campus and community groups.

“I’ve known Ruffin since the beginning of my coaching career,” Doeren said in a statement. “Not only is he one of my closest friends in the profession, but he’s been a mentor to me since I was 24 years old. … Having a former head coach on our staff who I can trust and have known for almost my entire career is a huge benefit for me personally, as well as for our entire program.

“As a North Carolina native and a former coach at Appalachian State and ECU, Ruffin has great relationships and ties across our state. I am looking forward to working with him and want to welcome him and his wife Erlene to the Wolfpack family.”

McNeill, 61, was the Pirates’ head coach from 2010-15 and guided his alma mater to four bowl appearances during a college coaching career spanning more than three decades. He later joined Oklahoma’s staff under Lincoln Riley – who had worked under him at ECU – for three seasons as assistant head coach.

McNeill stepped down in January to help care for his father in Lumberton.

“I just felt like it was time for me to be a son and for Erlene and I to come back home,” McNeill said. “Dave has been in touch with me for all these years. He called and wished me well and stayed in touch the entire time. Then we began talking about this opportunity.

“We both decided what a great opportunity it would be for both of us.”

McNeill will serve as an advisor for the coaching staff, and is not allowed to go on the road and recruit players or have a coaching role with players.

“I look forward to being a resource for the entire staff, but especially for Dave,” McNeill said. “I’ve been in that chair and know the pressures that come along with it, so I hope to be a sounding board for him.”

On top of being a sounding board, McNeill said he will be able to step back and see the bigger picture of the program and the university in his new position.

“I’ll miss the X’s and O’s part on the field, but this new experience is really exciting too,” He said. “I will be observing how the kids react, how they play and how they practice. Sharing any knowledge with the coaches that I may see. Not football wise but young people wise.”

Before his start in the college ranks, McNeill was an assistant coach at Lumberton High School from 1980 to 1984. McNeill graduated from Lumberton in 1976 before lettering for four years at East Carolina.

He graduated from ECU in 1980 after majoring in education with a focus in special education. He later earned his master’s degree in secondary counseling from Clemson.

McNeill was named head coach at East Carolina on Jan. 21, 2010, and served in that capacity for six seasons (2010-15). He posted a 42-34 record at ECU and his Pirates’ teams played in four bowl games and beat Ohio 37-20 in the 2013 Beef O’Brady’s Bowl.

In 2014, East Carolina began the season with a 6-1 record and was ranked in the Associated Press Top 25 Poll for six weeks. ECU used an explosive offensive unit that rated among the nation’s top five in passing (third), first downs (fourth) and total yards (fifth). Defensively, only 10 FBS teams were better against the run, as the Pirates allowed just 111.8 yards per game.

The Pirates recorded 10 victories in 2013, which ranks as the second-highest single-season win total in school history. That squad also broke or matched 52 individual and team single-game, single-season and all-time standards, while both sides of the ball combined to rank among the top 15 nationally in 12 statistical categories. The Pirates finished 7-1 in Conference USA that year.

At his latest coaching stop at Oklahoma, he led the defensive tackles and outside linebackers during his three seasons with the program. He also served as defensive coordinator for much of the 2018 campaign.

Man barricaded in home believed to be connected to bomb threats at Rockingham County schools

RUFFIN, N.C. — Update 4:35 p.m. - NC Highway Patrol confirms the standoff situation in Rockingham County is over, WFMY's Alma McCarty reports.Rockingham County Sheriff's deputies negotiated with a man who barricaded himself inside a house Wednesday.The incident happened on Deodara Lane in Ruffin. Shortly before 8 a.m., deputies went to a house to get in contact with 37-year-old Joseph Irving in regards to misdemeanor warrants. When deputies went to the door, they said Irving came to the window with a weapon and t...

RUFFIN, N.C. — Update 4:35 p.m. - NC Highway Patrol confirms the standoff situation in Rockingham County is over, WFMY's Alma McCarty reports.

Rockingham County Sheriff's deputies negotiated with a man who barricaded himself inside a house Wednesday.

The incident happened on Deodara Lane in Ruffin. Shortly before 8 a.m., deputies went to a house to get in contact with 37-year-old Joseph Irving in regards to misdemeanor warrants. When deputies went to the door, they said Irving came to the window with a weapon and tapped the glass.

The Sheriff's Office established a perimeter of containment around the home.

Access to the area was restricted for safety reasons.

The Rockingham County Sheriff's Office said Irving's father was inside the house, but they were able to get him out safely. He was not injured.

The sheriff's office said several schools in Rockingham County received threats, and some schools were on lockdown. They believe the threats came from Irving from inside the home. Deputies said other threats were made at the governmental center and courthouse in the area. They did security checks to make sure there was nothing dangerous happening at any location that received threats.

The bomb squad from Greensboro was called in to help. There were also deputies and other law enforcement on scene trying to negotiate with Irving. Deputies said he barricaded himself inside with a shotgun. No one was injured.

Deodara Lane in Ruffin was closed to traffic and drivers for several hours.

The Rockingham County Sheriff's Office also said Irving ran for Rockingham County Clerk of Court in 2018.

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