AA Learn more about in-home care options for your loved ones

Given the choice, most of us want to stay in our homes. Sometimes, people need help to remain at home. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Personal Care Consultation

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TESTIMONIALS

“Working for Always Best Care was a blast! The schedule coordinator is only a phone call day or night. The learning environment is wonderful I never felt stupid asking questions. This is the best care company anyone could work for! It’s great to know that the company has your back. 10/10 recommend!”

Anna B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Today is our owner Bruce Meyer's birthday. Some of our amazing caregivers came by to show him how much he means to all of us. Happy Birthday Bruce and thank you for being such a awesome boss and friend to us all. We truly love you!”

No P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care (ABC) is the best health care place to work at! It was never just a job for me, it was so much more than that! You become so close to each other like family! The employees work as a team which makes it so much enjoyable! Thank you for all you’ve done for me ABC!!!”

Jessica B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent company and employees. They always go above and beyond to make sure clients and coworkers needs are met.I have worked for this company for 23 years and I recommend this company for anyone looking for extra help for their loved ones.”

Laura T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The company is amazing, in my whole heartedly honest opinion. I've been working there for over a year and the office has always been there when I needed them. Bruce Meyer and Holly Jones are top notch in the office and work to help us caregivers/CNA's as well as our clients.”

Lauren L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I was looking for 24 hr home care for my mother who was living alone after my Dad's passing. My mother also had Dementia. ABC was recommended by her PCP. I was immediately impressed with my 1st meeting with their Senior Program Coordinator. She took detailed notes about the daily routine. My mind was set at ease when she explained their COVID protocols which included wiping down surfaces, mask requirements and unannounced periodic supervisor check-ins on caregivers. Daily each caregiver maintained meticulous documentation on my mother's daily routines - when she got up - what she ate. They also handled mail sorting and other sensitive confidential information. I was particularly impressed with the professional and caring demeanor of the caregivers. Shift changes overlapped allowing caregivers time to share pertinent information and there was often training from senior caregivers to junior team members about handling transfers and safety. ABC is a first class well run home care providing company.”

Gail L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care is a great company to work with! Holly is great at getting back to you and changing hours for the caregivers as needed, Bruce constantly is checking in to make sure the family has a support they need, and the caregivers go over and beyond!”

Amanda P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care really lives up to its name! Bruce and Holly were incredible and gave consistent and professional care for our family member and went above and beyond on many occasions. I would recommend them heartily!!”

Jeanne A.
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Matthew R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve work for this company for about a month now. We are a family with our client’s as our main priority!! The name doesn’t lie we Always give the Best Care, you won’t regret your decision with ABC.”

Briana C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“When my father fell and broke his arm, we needed help quickly as my mother has Alzheimers. We meet with Bruce on Monday and by Wednesday, we had caregivers in the home 7/24. I've been a recruiter for 22 years and I know that finding good people is hard work. ABC has some fantastic employees and they have been a welcome addition to the home during this transition to Assisted Living. Bruce and his team answered our call day and night and responded quickly and professionally. There are always bumps when you are starting a new project, but it's how you handle them that is important. I have the utmost respect for Bruce and his team and I recommend them if you need care for a family member.”

Gary T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“So I have known Bruce Meyer for quite some time now. He came at a time where I was struggling to find a job. God sure does work in amazing ways. He was the reason I said yes to the job. It wasn’t just another interview where they just hired anybody. It was a place where I could feel comfortable and not nervous and leave the “interview” knowing I had found a wonderful place to work for. I’ll never forget that day when I agreed to take it because of the words he spoke to me. He said “God is calling you to walk through the doors. “ That alone will tell you how wonderful he is and the care that he gives to those he believes is a good fit for the job. I have been working for Always Best Care since September of 2020. Ever since I started I knew I was in the right hands with the best company I could have ever asked for. They go above and beyond to give exceptional care/ support to the clients, families, and staff.I have heard nothing but positive feedback from anyone I come In contact to that receive their services. I am truly blessed to call this not only my job but my family.”

Millie G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My wife is a recent former client of Always Best Care. The only reason we are no longer using their services is she was approved for Medicaid. Bruce was great during his initial visit to find out my wife's needs. They were able to provide an aide very quickly. Cortney, the supervisor nurse, is awesome and went above and beyond. When an aide couldn't make it, they had someone else ready. All of the aides have been fantastic and will be missed.”

Kevin S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My wife is a recent former client of Always Best Care. The only reason we are no longer using their services is she was approved for Medicaid. Bruce was great during his initial visit to find out my wife's needs. They were able to provide an aide very quickly. Cortney, the supervisor nurse, is awesome and went above and beyond. When an aide couldn't make it, they had someone else ready. All of the aides have been fantastic and will be missed.”

bsuther
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TESTIMONIALS

“it's a very great company and I love all my staff that I work with and my supervisors are on point about getting things done if they can”

Cocoa R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I was recently in a motor vehicle accident and found myself needing 24 hour care. Always best care provided services for me for about 2 months. I feel like all the caretakers we’re capable and caring they certainly were a great help to me from cooking, to light cleaning, walking my dog, and helping with various needs I had. I would definitely recommend ABC for caretaking services!”

gracerl
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TESTIMONIALS

“Bruce and his team at Always Best Care have been a tremendous help to many of my clients over the years. They provide services to seniors with the utmost in care and professionalism. I highly recommend Always Best Care!”

Chad G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Caring, compassionate and thorough. Professional and they listen to best meet your needs.”

Barbara C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has always been close to home, so to speak, and this was no different! Bruce & the team helped us out so much! They cared for my loved one just as if she was their own. And they even help with the transitions in life for when the need may arise. They are like family. If you ever have concerns, voice them, because they are willing to go the extra mile for you! ????”

Alison S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“What a journey we experienced with Always Best Care! They were with us every step of the way. Professional, loving, and truly part of the family! We are forever grateful to their special team!”

Stephanie S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Wonderful caring people who go out of their way to ensure your loved ones are treated right and cared for - would highly recommend!!”

Carmen R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I personally love working at Always Best Care! Bruce, the owner, not only cares about our clients but he also cares about the employee's. Bruce strives to provide the absolute best for your loved ones! I also have to say Debra from HR has the same caring motives as Bruce, for employees and clients. Lets not forget Leah, the scheduling coordinator and Care manager, she is absolutely amazing. Leah goes above and beyond for her employees and clients. Working for Always Best Care isn't a job, it's one big family! We love every one of our clients through Always Best Care, that's why we strive as a family and team members to care for your loved ones the way we would want to be treated. Bruce and all of the management at this company Ensure that we are trained in every aspect to care for your family! I wouldn't work for anybody else, personally, I would choose Always Best Care as a provider any day of the week for my loved one! Definitely five stars”

Becca H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I personally love working at Always Best Care! Bruce, the owner, not only cares about our clients but he also cares about the employee's. Bruce strives to provide the absolute best for your loved ones! I also have to say Debra from HR has the same caring motives as Bruce, for employees and clients. Lets not forget Leah, the scheduling coordinator and Care manager, she is absolutely amazing. Leah goes above and beyond for her employees and clients. Working for Always Best Care isn't a job, it's one big family! We love every one of our clients through Always Best Care, that's why we strive as a family and team members to care for your loved ones the way we would want to be treated. Bruce and all of the management at this company Ensure that we are trained in every aspect to care for your family! I wouldn't work for anybody else, personally, I would choose Always Best Care as a provider any day of the week for my loved one! Definitely five stars”

Rebecca G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have been a client of Always Best Care (ABC) in Greenville, SC for nearly 5 months. The responsiveness and value added provided by their service has been outstanding, always going the extra mile in terms of advice on how to deal with the complexities of medicare, and health insurance for the elderly, and in particular the difficulties of handling dementia in the case of a loved one. The ownership and staff provide great individualized attention to the specific needs of every single client. They will search for the right caregiver to provide the required level of care for you and your loved ones. I wholeheartedly endorse them. I would rate my experience with them a perfect 10.”

redryder
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TESTIMONIALS

“Wonderful caring people who go out of their way to ensure your loved ones are treated right and cared for - would highly recommend!!”

Carmen R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“i love this company. professional, courteous, compassionate and thorough.”

Barbara P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Staff is well screened and trained. Company is very professional and caring, they will find the right fit to meet your needs.”

Youragingmatters
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TESTIMONIALS

“When our mother needed in home care we researched other options before selecting Always Best Care. Bruce Meyer and his team of caregivers gave us the level of care and attention we were looking for. The ladies who attended to our mom were always on time and were always extremely loving and gentle. Our mom looked forward to the daily visits. We choose a non-fri schd of 8am - 12pm. When she later moved to more 24 hr nursing home requirements, her caregivers continued to stay in touch and became part of our extended family. Always Best Care will Always be our first option! Thanks again to this wonderful team.”

Stephen C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Bruce and his special team were with us every step of the way. A very difficult journey and they carried us through it!”

Stephanie R.
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Bruce M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“excellent owner and management staff. great caregivers. responsible, dedicated, trustworthy, dependable.”

Donna A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have only been working for this lovingly company for 4 months now . I am amazed on everyone is well at communicating with each other and works really well as a team. As a great staff we all are have great hearts for caring for others and a positive attitude . I couldn’t be happier working with just a great set of people . We care for the clients as one of our love ones . We want nothing but the best care for each one. I would definitely recommend ABC to anyone looking for a job to call home with excellent people to work with and a wonderful crew to work side by side . DawnMcCollum a CNA with Always Best Care Senior Services”

Dawn-Matt M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Bruce and his team of supervised employee caregivers are a breath of fresh air compared to using contractors. It is nice to have peace of mind. Thank you!”

Steven S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care are the absolute BEST home care agency I have EVER worked for ! They truly appreciate and care about there caregivers and clients ! Bruce , Ashley and Jessica are truly one of a kind and I couldn’t have asked for a better home care agency to work for ! I 100% recommend them to care for your loved ones !”

Bella H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have been with ABC for about six months and could not be more pleased. Ashley and Jessica make every effort to be sure our needs are meet. Bruce and Helen have been invaluable in helping with our long term care insurance. Our caregiver , Cat Sellers , has been a godsend. She has become a member of our family. She has a unique ablity to be both personal and professional. We look forward to her cheerful spirit each day. Thank you , ABC. Rev. and Mrs. Todd Walter.”

Natalie M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have only been working for Always Best Care for about two months. And it has been such a great experience. I been in healthcare for ten years. Have worked in nursing homes, assisted living, and home health. But this is by far the best company yet. They are truly some loving, gentle, and caring people to work for. Bruce, Jessica, and Ashley are awesome. I love that they don't mind getting in there and getting their hands dirty. But most of all, if I had a loved one that needed care, I would most definatley use Always Best Care. Why? Because I know they would be well taken care of. They show love for their workers. We are family at Always Best Care.”

lateka R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have been a caregiver with Always Best Care for almost a year. In my 20 year's of caregiving, I can honestly say they are the BEST! Bruce, His wife Helen and his office staff Ashley and Jessica are one of a kind. They always go the extra mile for us employee's as well as to the families they provide services to. They are the most family oriented company that I have ever worked for. I know without a doubt if I was stranded on the side of the road they would come rescue me,and if a shift needed to be covered and they couldn't find a caregiver available to cover it, Bruce, Ashley or Jessica would cover it themselves. A company with love in their hearts, not dollar signs. I highly recommend them.”

Catherine S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have been using Always Best Care of Greenville for my mom. They're easy to work with. They follow instructions and they're able to provide the experienced staff that we need, so it worked out. They provide in-home and CNA services, like bathing, light housework, making sure my mom gets to the bathroom, and even some companionship. They're able to work around our schedule and stay staffed for a lot of hours.”

John
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would recommend Always Best Care for home care or assisted living services - they have a warm, responsive staff”

buttermilk‎ツ
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would recommend Always Best Care for home care or assisted living services - they have a warm, responsive staff”

rokov
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve been lucky enough to know Bruce and Helen for 30+ years. They are two of the most caring people I know.”

Jim C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Mary Beth Culbertson has been a life saver for my Mom and I. She took so much time to discuss options and direct me to the "best fit" as we transitioned my Mom once she moved to Greenville. 5 months have passed since my Mom settled in and she is still following up and helping us work through the process of moving to Assisted Living lifestyle. She has become a friend of the family and sincerely cares about my Mom! Of course we met through Bruce Meyers at Always Best Care where he and the Staff took care of our "sitter" needs before we moved to Assisted Living. I whole- heartedly recommend Mary Beth and ABC! Susan Reid-Bridgers”

Susan R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC is one of the best doing what they do. They go beyond what is required and truly work to enhance a senior's life through stimulating activities customized to the abilities of those in their care.”

Amy C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would recommend Always Best Care for home care or assisted living services - they have a warm, responsive staff”

scythe
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would recommend Always Best Care for home care or assisted living services - they have a warm, responsive staff”

sugarfoot
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great people from Bruce to Denise to Jessica to Marybeth and the caregivers are absolute saints! Everyone truly cares about providing the "best care" for my mother - couldn't be happier with their services.”

Curtis D.
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“We have an extraordinary care giver who loves my Mom like her own. We are extremely fortunate and very blessed.”

Elizabeth L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Bruce sent Teyonna and LaKeidra to help with my dad at home. Although he only lived 9 1/2 hrs after coming home from the hospital, daddy had the best care from these 2 ladies. But not only did they care for daddy, they cared for me and my mom....emotionally, supportive, lovingly!! I recommend using Bruce and his team for caring for your loved ones!!!”

Michelle C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides a in-home care for a variety of needs. The owner of the company comes in to your home for a free evaluation of the client and spent over an hour talking to us about my dad, They provide service for a minimum of one hour to overnights. Their workers are very knowledgeable and friendly. Even though their primary job is to care for your loved one they are there to do light housework, laundry, etc. Their rates are reasonable and you can be assured that your loved one is well taken care of under their care.”

Karen F.
 In-Home Care Lyman, SC

How does In-home Senior Care in Lyman, SC work?

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

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

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

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 Senior Care Lyman, SC

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.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a unfamiliar assisted living community, 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:

Comfort
Comfort

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, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old. With the help of elderly care in Lyman, SC, 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.

Healthy Living
Healthy Living

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.

Independence
Independence

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 an assisted living community. 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.

Cost and Convenience
Cost and Convenience

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 to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, can be 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 in Lyman, SC 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.

Empowers Seniors

Affordable Care Plans

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:

Veteran's Benefits
Veteran's Benefits

Aid and Attendance benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.

Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-Term Care Insurance

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.

Private Insurance
Private Insurance

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.

Life Insurance
Life Insurance

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.


Respite Care Lyman, SC

During your Care Plan consultation with Always Best Care, your Care Coordinator will speak with you about in-home care costs and what options there may be to help meet your budget needs.

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 Lyman,SC 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.

 Caregivers Lyman, SC

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 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:

An assessment of your senior loved one

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An in-depth discussion of the needs of your senior loved one to remain in their own home

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Reviewing a detailed Care Plan that will meet your senior loved one's needs

03

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.

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.

Latest News in Lyman, SC

Emma Brooke Alley reflects on The Voice. Here's what's next for the singer from Lyman.

What Emma Brooke Alley thought was a telemarketer call ended up being a producer from The Voice. That call led to a chance for her to appear on the popular NBC music reality show.Alley, a 19-year-old from Lyman, said the producer saw her singing on a social media post. The call would eventually help Alley - her stage name is Emma Brooke - to compete on The Voice this season. She made it to the top 36 before getti...

What Emma Brooke Alley thought was a telemarketer call ended up being a producer from The Voice. That call led to a chance for her to appear on the popular NBC music reality show.

Alley, a 19-year-old from Lyman, said the producer saw her singing on a social media post. The call would eventually help Alley - her stage name is Emma Brooke - to compete on The Voice this season. She made it to the top 36 before getting eliminated on Oct. 31.

She secured a spot on The Voice with a cover of "California Dreamin," by The Mamas & The Papas. Two judges, Gwen Stephani and John Legend turned their chairs for the Spartanburg County native and she went with Team Legend.

"I got two chairs turned, and I was grateful to even have one," she said. "They were the two people that I wanted, John Legend and Gwen Stephani. I thought I was going to go with Gwen, just because she was my top pick of all time, but it was the way that John was speaking to me. He said 'I see this perfection about you in your contemporary music, and I want to take down those walls that you've built and rough up your style and sound.' It immediately caught my attention, he knows what I want on this show."

Emma Brooke Alley competes on The Voice

One obstacle Alley faced on the show was becoming comfortable with diverse music genres. She typically worked with the genres indie, alternative-rock and blues. Alley's battle with Nia Skyfer gave her the opportunity to expand her musical growth.

"I won my battle round with Nia Skyer, we sang 'She's All I Wanna Be,' by Tate McRae, which was a song completely out of my wheelhouse," she said. "It was very pop-rock, Olivia Rodrigo type stuff. When they gave me a pop-rock song I was like 'Oh Lord, this is gonna be fun.' I made it a mission that no matter what song they would give me, I'm going to show them that my voice is flexible and capable."

Skyfer said that competing with Alley was a fun, learning experience.

"Her being so young and yet so skilled with her craft is something I highly admire," Skyfer said in an email. "It never really felt like we were battling each other. I think it felt more like a duet between two friends. Overall, it was a great experience and I'm glad they paired us together."

Alley said the best advice she received came from singer and songwriter Jazmine Sullivan during a coaching segment.

"The advice was to really 'sell my story.' When you're brought up and trained in classical music, it's sometimes hard to really find that connection with that song," Brooke said. "Jazmine taught me this trick about really selling a look with just my eyes. If somebody looks in my eyes and can feel that emotion, it's the strongest way I can convey how I'm feeling. I felt like being there gave me the confidence and gave me the time to work with John (Legend) and myself on how I'm going to take this song and myself to the next level."

The Voice 2022Easley's Ansley Burns reflects on experience working with Blake Shelton

What is next for Emma Brooke Alley's musical career?

Alley said she will appear Nov. 21 at the Spinning Jenny in Greer. She will sing original songs for the Brent Ensley Showcase.

She is currently studying Contemporary Music with Media Applications at Converse University. Alley, who began taking voice lessons at 6 years old at Converse's Lawson Academy of the Arts, plans to complete her four-year degree in 2025 before pursuing a career as a singer-songwriter.

Alley graduated high school from South Carolina Governor's School for the Arts and Humanities, in May 2021.

She appreciates all of the support from her friends, family and community.

"The night that my blind audition aired, we had a blind audition party at my church, 4 Points Church in Greer," she said. "Just to see the turnout of everyone that came, and they wanted to watch that episode alongside me and support me. Everyone was so full of love."

How Emma Brooke Alley's musical career began

Alley said she remembers singing Disney songs and her voice caught the attention of her parents.

"I was running around the house, singing things like Disney princess songs, Hannah Montana and all the stuff little girls would sing around the house."

"My parents heard a little vibrato sound, and thought 'maybe she can do something with this?' They enrolled me in the Lawson Academy of the Arts and I started taking voice lessons with Dr. Valerie MacPhail, and have been taking lessons with her ever since."

MacPhail, associate professor of Voice and assistant director of the Petrie School of Music at Converse, said that Alley was always an amazing student who worked hard.

"Emma Brooke started studying voice with me when she was 8- years-old. She had a true vocal gift, with a voice that was beautiful and mature beyond her years," MacPhail said. "I truly believe her talents would allow her to be successful in any genre of music, and I feel privileged to be part of her journey as she figures out where she wants to go."

6 Holiday Light Driving Tours: Upstate, SC

Do you want to go for a Christmas light drive around the Upstate and see all the best home displays? Have you seen long lists ofChristmas light displays? Are you overwhelmed by the holidays this year? We’ve got five driving routes for 2023 to help you enjoy the season without a lot of stress since we already did the work for you!Load the family in the car and follow these routes for a super simple yet super special night (or nights) of enjoying Christmas lights together. Do you ...

Do you want to go for a Christmas light drive around the Upstate and see all the best home displays? Have you seen long lists ofChristmas light displays? Are you overwhelmed by the holidays this year? We’ve got five driving routes for 2023 to help you enjoy the season without a lot of stress since we already did the work for you!

Load the family in the car and follow these routes for a super simple yet super special night (or nights) of enjoying Christmas lights together.

Do you want your light display included in our list? Fill out our Holiday Light Display form and be sure to include a photo of your display!

And if you really want to have fantastic Christmas lights at your house but don’t want to do the work, Sweet Carolines is a great company to use! They did all the lighting at the new Denver Downs Pumpkin Trail and do holiday lights all over the Upstate.

The Kidding Around Upstate, SC Christmas Lights Driving Routes include:Spartanburg, SC Christmas Lights Driving RouteGreer, SC Christmas Lights Driving RouteSimpsonville, SC Christmas Lights Driving RouteEasley, SC Christmas Lights Driving RouteAnderson, SC Christmas Driving RouteEDITOR’S Pick of Displays Across The Upstate

Want to jump right to the driving routes map?Christmas Lights Driving Routes Map

Bonus! More lights! Check out our Christmas Lights Driving Tours in Columbia, SC!

While we do our best to offer accurate information, please check with these venues and organizations before visiting. Please help keep Kidding Around free by not copying and reproducing this content without written permission.

Please note that things like inclement weather can impact a display status.

If you see more while you are driving around the Upstate, be sure to share the info in the comments of our Holiday Lights List for folks to check out!

Tips For Enjoying The Holiday Light Displays

While there are plenty of paid attractions you can visit with your family, if you are looking for some budget-friendly fun, admiring the work of homeowners, you have come to the right spot.

We have separated light displays in the Upstate into several easy-to-follow routes. Do them all in one night, or turn them into several nights of fun. Throw your fuzzy jammies on, grab the tumbler of hot cocoa, and hit the road.

We have gathered the best of the best in the Upstate to curate this fantastic list. Homes with light shows that include music (and sometimes even hot chocolate and Santa) are included and worth the drive. Here are a few tips to make the most of the routes provided:

2023 Kidding Around Christmas Light Driving Tour Map [currently being updated for 2023]

Have issues with the map? We have a tutorial to help navigate the map. (this has 2020 tour info and is just posted as a tutorial)

This article includes:Easley/Greenville, SC Christmas Light Driving RouteSimpsonville, SC Christmas Light Driving RouteFive Forks Christmas Light Driving RouteSpartanburg, SC Christmas Light Driving RouteGreer, SC Christmas Light Driving RouteAnderson, SC Christmas Light Driving Route

Victorian House of Lights

Lights on E. Earle St

Lights on Old Easley Road

Lights of Bethel

403 Sulphur Springs Road, Greenville | Starts Thanksgiving, 6-9 pm

5 Point Church Display

Cook Family Christmas

Holly on Andrea Lane

Addresses on the Simpsonville Route:

Whitemarsh Christmas

Christmas on Kwikaway

Lights on Foxworth

Santa on Agewood Drive

Lights on Tulip Tree Lane

Holiday Lights On Keswick Trail

Addresses on Five Forks driving route:

Christmas Inflatable Extravaganza

Higgs Christmas Lights

Holiday Lights on Fairfield

Gingerbread House

Major Award Lights Mauldin

Holiday Lights on Dunrobin Lane

Pixel Christmas Light Display

Addresses on Spartanburg driving route:

The Christmas House | Inman

The Belcher Family Tradition | Lyman

Nodine Family Christmas Lights | Inman

Williams Family Christmas | Campobello

The Wild Wild Gingerbread House

The Ditto Squared Candy Cane Lane

Addresses on the Greer route in order of driving route:

Blue Blue Christmas

Holiday Lights on Rebel Ridge Road | Lyman

The Holly Jolly Lane- House of North Pole

Christmas Inflatables Fun

Worden Christmas Light Show

Wonderland on School Street | Duncan

Woodsbury Light Show

Peck Family Christmas

119 Crosshill Rd, Moore | Thanksgiving-New Years 5:30-11 pm

Colorful Christmas

BONUS Greer Homes

Greer CPW hosts a house decorating contest every year and you can see those homes on this map. Some of these are already on our route.

Addresses on the Anderson route:

Anthony Family Light Display

Welcome To Who-Ville

Hamilton Christmas Light Display

417 Mattison Road, Anderson | Thanksgiving-New Years, 6-10 pm

Hyde Family Lights

Lights of North Avenue

BONUS: No Route Christmas Light Displays

There are several holiday light displays in the Upstate that are too far from any of the routes to be added to them but that we still think you’ll like. They are noted in purple on the map and their addresses and info is below.

Pelzer Light People

These are people who just love the Christmas spirit so much that they literally deck themselves out with lights. They have a specific schedule, which starts on Thanksgiving, so be sure to check it before heading out to see them in Pelzer, SC. In general, they are out every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7 pm to 9 pm (weather permitting).

Poole Light Show

Ricci’s Christmas Lights

Smoky Dreams BBQ

Mush Creek Hill Road Lights

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2022 Editor’s Picks For Top Holiday Home Light Displays

Here are some of our favorite synchronized displays:

2022 Editor’s Picks Of Displays Across The Upstate

If you are only able to spend one night driving to see lights – then this is the list! There are stops from Spartanburg to Anderson, heading across the Upstate!

Even More Holiday Home Light Displays

There is no shortage of holiday light displays to be found in the Upstate! For more holiday light displays, check out our list of 50+ Holiday Light Displays across the Upstate and beyond.

Don’t miss the Ultimate Holiday Guide to Greenville, SC, or our Holiday Guide to Spartanburg, SC for even MORE holiday fun. They are packed full of things to do, gift ideas, events, and more!

Please be sure to completely fill out the form, including any online links to information available like dedicated social media pages or posts. The more information we have, the more likely your home will be included in our content.

If you see more while you are driving around the Upstate, be sure to share the info in the comments of our Holiday Lights List for folks to check out.

Looking for more lights? See what lights are waiting for in you in the Midlands in our Christmas Lights Near Columbia, SC list.

Walmart plans $450M grocery distribution center, 400 jobs in Lyman, Spartanburg County

Walmart on Tuesday announced plans to build a distribution center for fresh and frozen groceries in Spartanburg County.A press release said Walmart will invest $450 million in the 720,000-plus, square-foot facility in Lyman and create more than 400 jobs with a combination of associates, automation technology, robotics and machine learning to process grocery perishables. The new center is set to open in 2024.It will be built on a 201-acre site at the 750-acre Fort Prince Industrial Park on Fort Prince Boulevard (H...

Walmart on Tuesday announced plans to build a distribution center for fresh and frozen groceries in Spartanburg County.

A press release said Walmart will invest $450 million in the 720,000-plus, square-foot facility in Lyman and create more than 400 jobs with a combination of associates, automation technology, robotics and machine learning to process grocery perishables. The new center is set to open in 2024.

It will be built on a 201-acre site at the 750-acre Fort Prince Industrial Park on Fort Prince Boulevard (Highway 129) and will be Walmart's largest grocery distribution center.

"There aren't many announcements that come close to this one in regard to overall impact in Spartanburg County," stated David Britt, chairman of the county's economic development committee. "Walmart's decision to locate here will provide growth opportunities not only for residents, but our community as a whole for years to come."

Lyman is a small but growing community along the U.S. 29 corridor between Duncan, Spartanburg and Greer. It has grown from 3,243 people in 2010 to 6,173 in 2020, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Lyman mayoral candidates Glenn Greer and Marc Garcia, who along with Rick Hellams are hoping to succeed retiring Mayor Larry Chappell, said Tuesday the project will be a game-changer for Lyman.

"We're very excited," said Greer, who is Lyman's mayor pro tem on Town Council. "This is a lot of hard work between Spartanburg County, OneSpartanburg and the Town of Lyman to land this. We welcome Walmart."

Greer said Walmart chose the Lyman site in large part because of its available infrastructure and location Greer between Atlanta and Charlotte, near Interstates 85 and 26 and the Inland Port at Greer.

He said Lyman will benefit from the jobs and expanded tax base, which will bring in more revenues to the town's budget.

"We love having industry come in and move our tax base forward," he said.

Garcia said town leaders need to start planning now to enlarge Fort Prince Boulevard for the coming increase in truck traffic.

"We are located truly in a great location to be able to serve their corporate needs," Garcia said of Walmart. "We have citizens who live on that road who would now have to deal with the significant increase in traffic."

Hellams could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

Lyman traffic woes:Growth, traffic squeezing patience of Lyman residents

Britt said the project brings the total investment in Spartanburg County to a record $1.71 billion with 3,500 new jobs.

He said Spartanburg County was competing with other states for the distribution center.

"Anytime a Fortune 500 company is looking to invest $450 million in a state, you better believe there is a multi-state competition and this was the case," he said. "Spartanburg, South Carolina, rose to the top based on our reputation of supporting business and industry that is connected to the nationwide and global economy."

The project was initially code-named Project Replay, first brought before Spartanburg County Council in January. Walmart received a reduced property tax rate of 4% over 40 years. The standard rate for companies is 10.5%.

The agreement also provides a total of $6.3 million in special source revenue credits, which would be reduced if the company does not meet its minimum investment.

Very few projects in South Carolina are large enough to warrant a "super fee" rate of 4%, which is generally reserved for those investing at least $400 million.

BMW Manufacturing in Spartanburg County is one of the few to receive a 4% rate 28 years ago. Since it opened, BMW has invested more than $11 billion and created 11,000 jobs.

Walmart's 201-acre site at the Fort Prince Industrial Park was sold by Colliers International's Spartanburg industrial team of John Montgomery, Garrett Scott and Brockton Hall, Colliers announced Tuesday.

The sale means the entire 750-acre park has now been sold, Colliers said. The other developments facilitated by Colliers and under construction at Fort Prince include The Cubes at Fort Prince and Hunt Midwest's Fort Prince Logistics Center.

Large project announced:$380 million economic project, 450 jobs planned in Spartanburg County

Shafter, Calif., is the home of Walmart’s first high-tech distribution grocery center, announced in 2018.

The Lyman distribution center will rely on a combination of employees, automation, robotics and machine learning to process perishable goods -- such as produce, eggs, dairy, flowers and frozen goods -- and deliver them to nearby stores, according to Walmart.

The center is part of a larger investment the retailer announced earlier this year to double down on the use of automation technology in supply chain. Walmart operates four distribution centers, 122 retail stores and employs over 30,000 associates in the state.

Grocery store shelves bare?:These products may be hard to find amid supply chain disruptions

"Walmart’s high-tech grocery distribution center will include game-changing innovations that are radically disrupting the supply chain, getting products onto shelves for our customers even faster, while saving time for our associates,” said David Guggina, senior vice president, automation and innovation at Walmart U.S.

“We’re proud to be opening Walmart’s largest automated grocery distribution center in Spartanburg County and look forward to bringing new STEM job opportunities to the region.”

To learn more about employment visit here.

Staff writer Bob Montgomery contributed to this story. He can be reached at [email protected].

Tamia Boyd is a Michigan native who covers breaking news. Email her at [email protected], and follow her on Twitter @tamiamb.

SC student made it through the first round on ‘The Voice.’ Whose team did she pick?

A Converse University student made it through blind auditions on The Voice this week and chose to work with John Legend.Emma Brooke, whose real name is Emma Brooke Alley, was chosen by Gwen Stefani and Legend after singing the Mamas and Papas hit “California Dream.’”She is 19 and from Lyman, South Carolina. She’s trained in classical music but told the judges she wanted to branch out into contemporary music. She is ...

A Converse University student made it through blind auditions on The Voice this week and chose to work with John Legend.

Emma Brooke, whose real name is Emma Brooke Alley, was chosen by Gwen Stefani and Legend after singing the Mamas and Papas hit “California Dream.’”

She is 19 and from Lyman, South Carolina. She’s trained in classical music but told the judges she wanted to branch out into contemporary music. She is a graduate of the Governor’s School for the Arts and Humanities in Greenville.

Legend told her he wanted to work with her to help her “unlearn some of the structure that’s been put around” her.

On her Instagram page, she said “I’m so happy that everyone finally got to see what I’ve been working on over the summer! Thank you all so much for all of the love and support! I can’t wait to share this journey with you!”

The Voice tweeted to her: “You’ll fit right in on Team Legend.”

She started taking voice lessons when she was 6 years old.

Her first single “Feelin’ Good” was released in January.

She’s also a member of a blues, indie rock band called The Blue Executive.

“As a singer, musician and performer, I want my music and spirit to fill others’ hearts and souls with music that makes them feel good,” she said on her website. “I sing and perform to use the talent that God has blessed me with to touch and inspire everyone in the room and beyond.”

The Voice is on NBC Mondays and Tuesdays at 8 p.m. and next day on Peacock.

This story was originally published September 28, 2022, 10:08 AM.

Environmental testing underway at abandoned mill site in Lyman

...

LYMAN, SC (WSPA) – Leaders in one Upstate community are working to bring new life to an abandoned mill site.

Mills were once the cornerstone of many Upstate communities.

Likewise, many mill properties have been redeveloped.

Folks in Lyman hope it’s their turn.

“It was such a good group of people,” Reba Bruce recalled.

Bruce recently celebrated her 91st birthday. She still lives by the old mill off Pacific Street in Lyman where she once worked.

“Oh it was very nice,” she said. “We just enjoyed working there and to see it like it is, it’s sad.”

Their piece of history is marked with graffiti and signs of condemnation.

The mill closed in 2005, and much of it was demolished years later.

“The mill was Lyman,” Mayor Larry Chappell said.

He said the property has become an eyesore and the Environmental Protection Agency is testing the site to see how it can be cleaned up.

“Trying to drill and get samples,” the mayor said, adding that the town met with the EPA, DHEC, the Appalachian Council of Governments, and property owners. “We had some people come in that had worked in the mill and gave them some ideas of what happened in the mill.”

He says some of the property is in Spartanburg County.

The EPA’s federal assistance will fund the environmental testing needed for redevelopment.

“After they get the asbestos and any hazardous material out there then I think it’ll be more likely that developers may come and say okay it’ll cost me $50k or $100k to tear all this down,” Chappell said. “Hopefully we see something over there – maybe storefronts or homes or whatever.”

Whatever it is, Bruce wants something their mill village can be proud to look at every day.

“I just hope they’ll do something nice with it,” Bruce said.

The mayor says they’ve already started phase one of the testing.

The town is working on the project with a Greenville-based company called SynTerra Corp., which plans to hold a public forum later this year.

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