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 Slater, SC

How does In-home Senior Care in Slater, 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 Slater, 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 Slater, 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 Slater, 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 Slater, 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 Slater,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 Slater, 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

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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.

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 Slater, SC

12,000 acres preserved in fast-developing part of SC

RIDGELAND — In contrast to the slow-moving gopher tortoises that inhabit the Slater Tract in Jasper County, state officials approved the purchase of the 3,500-acre parcel at breakneck speed.The request appeared before the State Fiscal Accountability Authority on Mar. 28. Gov. Henry McMaster, who chairs the authority, moved quickly through the agenda, and the $17.55 million purchase was approved without comment or discussion. The entire transaction lasted less than a minute.The approval represents the first step in a plan ...

RIDGELAND — In contrast to the slow-moving gopher tortoises that inhabit the Slater Tract in Jasper County, state officials approved the purchase of the 3,500-acre parcel at breakneck speed.

The request appeared before the State Fiscal Accountability Authority on Mar. 28. Gov. Henry McMaster, who chairs the authority, moved quickly through the agenda, and the $17.55 million purchase was approved without comment or discussion. The entire transaction lasted less than a minute.

The approval represents the first step in a plan to transfer more than 12,000 acres of protected land in Jasper and Hampton counties to the care of the state.

While the approval happened quickly, the plan has been in the works for three years, noted Nate Berry, senior vice president with the Open Space Institute, the agency that’s played a leading role in the conservation effort.

“You’ve got to remember that was the final phase of the process,” he said. “It had been vetted by other people and agencies, but I was happy that there was no discussion.”

The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources asked the state for approval to buy the tract to protect water quality in the Port Royal Sound watershed, preserve and improve wildlife habitat and create outdoor recreational opportunities for residents.

“One of the big goals of this project is to create a protected land corridor from the 300,000 protected acres in the ACE Basin to the 500,000 acres of protected land in South Lowcountry Focus Area, which is along the Savannah River,” explained Berry.

The sale isn’t a done deal yet. The state still needs to complete some steps before the sale can be finalized, said DNR spokesman Stephen Fastenau.

Assuming the rest of the process goes according to plan, the agency will manage the property as the Jasper-Slater Sandhills Heritage Preserve, which will be open to the public

Crafting a very large land deal

The parcel, located approximately eight miles north of the Town of Ridgeland, is currently owned by the Open Space Institute. The institute is a conservation organization based in New York that also has an office in Charleston.

In the nine years the organization has had a presence in South Carolina, it has preserved about 50,000 acres over the course of 50 projects. Its niche, Berry said, is creating new public land.

Between May 2021 and April 2022, the institute made three separate purchases of Slater property totaling 5,081 acres. The investment was its first in the region.

“The Slater assemblage sits in a biodiversity hotspot on an unusually high sand ridge,” Berry said. “It’s got 68 state-priority species on it. It’s a herpetologist’s dream. It’s a special property.”

In the summer of 2022, the institute partnered with The Nature Conservancy on a plan to purchase more than 7,300 adjoining acres known as the Buckfield property, most of which is in neighboring Hampton County.

The Nature Conservancy closed on its half of the purchase in June of last year. The Open Space Institute expects to close on its portion of the property after the sale of the Slater parcel to the state is complete.

“The protection of Buckfield represents the power of innovative collaboration — working together in new ways to accomplish more than any organization could alone,” said Dale Threatt-Taylor, executive director of The Nature Conservancy in South Carolina.

Eventually, the entire combined property amounting to more than 12,300 acres will be owned and managed by the state as part of its network of wildlife management areas.

“Very rarely do we have opportunities to protect assemblages of land at this magnitude, particularly along the rapidly urbanizing coast,” said Raleigh West, executive director of the South Carolina Conservation Bank. “When you consider its size, along with the uniqueness of the wildlife habitat it provides, the Slater-Buckfield project is one of the most significant conservation victories in recent times.”

An important habitat

The Open Space Institute paid $16 million when it bought the first and largest of the Slater parcels two years ago. That’s the land the state is now planning to purchase. An appraisal completed last winter pegged the value of the 3,507-acre parcel at $19.1 million.

A federal grant provided nearly $9.5 million of the purchase price, and DNR’s Heritage Land Trust chipped in another $6 million. The Nature Conservancy and South Carolina Conservation Bank, among others, also contributed to the purchase.

Hilton Head

DNR described the land as mix of forested uplands, bottomland hardwood forests, fields and open areas. Approximately 11 miles of the Coosawhatchie River and its tributaries are contained within the tract. It’s believed to be suitable to restore the bobwhite quail and red-cockaded woodpecker habitat.

It’s also home to a large and growing population of gopher tortoises. According to the Open Space Institute, the tortoise colony, which numbers around 150 individuals, is one of the largest in the eastern United States.

The tortoise is federally designated as an at-risk species. Its extensive underground burrows provide habitat for dozens of other animals, making it a keystone species in its ecosystem.

The transfer of the remaining Slater and Buckfield acreages to DNR is expected to take place over the coming year, though the schedule has not yet been solidified.

“It’s a huge effort,” Berry said. “This could be the biggest project I work on in my career.”

Slater-Marietta Fire Department breaks ground on new station

Project, years in the making, set for completion in 9 months Infinite Scroll Enabled GET LOCAL BREAKING NEWS ALERTSThe latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.Your Email AddressPrivacy Notice GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. —The Slater-Marietta Fire Department is in the process of an expansion along Highway 11 in the northern part of Greenville Cou...

Project, years in the making, set for completion in 9 months

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GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. —

The Slater-Marietta Fire Department is in the process of an expansion along Highway 11 in the northern part of Greenville County.

Last week, leaders broke ground on the property near Pleasant Ridge County Park. In 9 months, the property will be a station with space for four response vehicles.

Right now, the department operates out of a small building in that area with only one response vehicle.

The idea to build the station was formed more than 10 years ago. But it wasn't possible until the community opted in 2021 for a referendum for a general obligation bond to fund it.

"That station will serve our northernmost part of our district and it will also be an asset to our neighboring departments, River Falls Fire Department, Glassy Mountain Fire Department (and) Tigerville Fire Department," said Slater-Marietta Chief Adam Brown.

Brown said the area is seeing residential growth. He also said that there has been a 200% increase in call volume over the last 10 years.

On top of that, Brown said, most calls in that area are handled by the headquarters location off Geer Highway.

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"It's about five miles from here so that's going to delay your response," he said. "The plan is to eventually be able to staff that station and provide a quicker response to the calls in that area and a better service to the community in the northernmost part of our district."

Greenville County Councilman Joe Dill said it's needed since growth is on the way in that area.

"Those people in that area will have good protection and if they'll man it and keep people there, this'll be great," said Dill.

Brown said the new station wouldn't be possible without the community supporting the referendum.

"Ultimately, they've supported us through this process, and we have a lot of work to do but we're making a lot of progress and we're really happy with progress and we look forward to continuing that," he said.

The referendum will also fund renovations to the headquarters station off Geer Highway.

Open Space Institute acquires third Slater property in Jasper County

There's now even more acreage in Jasper County that will be protected by the Open Space Institute.OSI announced on April 4 that it has acquired a third property in the Slater assemblage for a total of more than 5,000 acres protected in less than a year, according to a news release. OSI said this will help secure critical gopher tortoise habitat while also adding land for public recreation.The property, which includes "mature productive wetlands," is adjacent to the 3,800-acre Slater and 336-acre Slater ...

There's now even more acreage in Jasper County that will be protected by the Open Space Institute.

OSI announced on April 4 that it has acquired a third property in the Slater assemblage for a total of more than 5,000 acres protected in less than a year, according to a news release. OSI said this will help secure critical gopher tortoise habitat while also adding land for public recreation.

The property, which includes "mature productive wetlands," is adjacent to the 3,800-acre Slater and 336-acre Slater Duck Ponds parcels OSI previously acquired, a news release said.

“At over 5,000 acres and $20 million, the Slater project represents a new and transformative era of investment in Jasper County,” county administrator Andy Fulghum said. “This outstanding conservation victory was made possible by OSI’s visionary leadership, and we are grateful."

Fulghum said, "what was equally exciting is that Slater builds on the County’s 2021 Conservation Finance Feasibility Study and sets the stage for a larger, collaborative conservation investment effort for our region."

OSI said conserving the latest 929-parcel secures essential wildlife habitat and creates additional public land in one of the state's fastest-growing regions.

OSI said it intends to transfer the property to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources as funding becomes available. DNR will develop infrastructure for the public to enjoy the property while preserving its biological integrity, the release said.

"The three OSI-protected properties are within a 30-minute drive from Savannah, Hilton Head, and Beaufort, and are located in one of America’s most biologically diverse yet fastest-growing regions," the release said. "The conservation of the more than 5,000 acres offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, birding, hiking, and cycling in an area where the nearest similar public preserve is almost an hour away."

In June, OSI’s $16 million acquisition of the first Slater tract was one of the largest conservation investments in state history, the release said.

“The Slater acquisitions prove that despite mounting development pressure, large-scale conservation for nature and the public is both achievable and critically important,” said Nate Berry, OSI’s Southeast Office director. “Each of the three Slater tracts are amazing on their own. Together they are remarkable. OSI is proud to secure these beautiful and abundant properties and looks forward to working with our partners SCDNR and Jasper County on future successes.”

OSI said the newly protected 929-acre property further expands the gopher tortoise habitat established by its conservation of the original Slater property, "which is home to one of the largest colonies of gopher tortoises in the eastern United States." The land, the release said, "also contains habitat conducive for the potential reintroduction of the federally endangered Red-Cockaded Woodpecker."

The Slater properties link the ACE Basin with the Southern Lowcountry Conservation Focus Area, according to OSI. It said this region "encompasses more than a tenth of South Carolina’s land area, and constitutes one of the largest undeveloped, most ecologically intact regions on the East Coast."

OSI’s Southeast office, established in Charleston eight years ago, has helped protect more than 50,000 acres in South Carolina, OSI said.

Proposal to reduce lanes through Slater-Marietta faces pushback

Many residents said they don't want lane reduction at SCDOT public input session Tuesday Infinite Scroll Enabled GET LOCAL BREAKING NEWS ALERTSThe latest breaking updates, delivered straight to your email inbox.Your Email AddressPrivacy Notice SLATER-MARIETTA, S.C. —A proposal to change Geer Highway in Slater-Marietta faced steep opposition Tuesday night from peop...

Many residents said they don't want lane reduction at SCDOT public input session Tuesday

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SLATER-MARIETTA, S.C. —

A proposal to change Geer Highway in Slater-Marietta faced steep opposition Tuesday night from people in that area.

SCDOT will soon resurface a more than four mile stretch of Geer Highway from Old White Horse Road to Highway 11.

Coordinating with county developments plans for the future, the agency said, engineers were also asked to design two alternate proposals to the current four-lane highway.

Engineers held a public input session Tuesday night at Slater Hall Community Center, sharing those three options.

In option one, SCDOT would resurface the road and keep the original four lanes. Option two would bring four lanes down to two lanes, add a turning lane and a bike path and option three would have three lanes, a turning lane and a bike path.

The proposals come as Greenville County leaders are working to bring the Swamp Rabbit Trail through Slater-Marietta.

"(We're) anxious to see if they like our plan, dislike our plan, that's why we're here," said Brandon Wilson, the SCDOT project engineer. "We don't want to do anything the community doesn't want to do."

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Early on, the mass majority in the nearly full room at Slater Hall made it clear where they stood.

"We do not want a two-lane highway running through our town," said Judy Presley, who lives nearby. "We are happy with the way it is. We want a four-lane highway. You want bicycles? You add another area for bicycles."

Greenville County Councilman Joe Dill also said he was opposed and questioned why only four miles of Geer Highway are going to be resurfaced.

"We don't need to close the four lanes to run the Swamp Rabbit Trail, but an issue that never was discussed is, we're only talking about doing four, five miles of paving and we need to be paving the whole (Highway) 276. All the way from River Falls to Travelers Rest and even to the North Carolina line" Dill said.

‘It’s magical’: 3,800-acre Jasper County property will be protected for public use

A scenic, 3,800-acre tract of riverfront land in Jasper County will be protected and preserved for public use in one of the largest land conservation agreements in South Carolina.On Thursday, the So...

A scenic, 3,800-acre tract of riverfront land in Jasper County will be protected and preserved for public use in one of the largest land conservation agreements in South Carolina.

On Thursday, the South Carolina office of The Open Space Institute purchased the property — known as the Slater Tract — for about $16 million, said Nate Berry, senior vice president of The Open Space Institute.

Protection of the property, located along the Coosawhatchie River, comes as Jasper and Beaufort counties are facing immense growth and development pressures. By preserving it for recreational use, the property will provide rural residents a great spot for fishing, hunting and outdoor recreation, Berry said.

The Open Space Institute (OSI), a national conservation organization based in New York, will hold the property for up to two years until S.C. raises enough money to purchase it. The organization is hoping to receive funding from the federal Forest Legacy program, the S.C. Conservation Bank and the S.C. Heritage Trust program.

“It’s a magnificent piece of property,” said Dana Beach, founder of The S.C. Coastal Conservation League and the “King of Conservation,” said. “It’s magical really.”

Purchase of the land has been in the works for about a year. It was previously owned by Glover Real Estate LLC.

Its preservation, Berry said, will expand public access in an area where open land is relatively scarce; protect more than a dozen threatened, endangered and “at risk” plants and animals; and, help curtail climate change by storing hundreds of thousands of tons of carbon in the forest.

Notably, the 3,800 acres of pine- and swampland are home to one of the largest gopher tortoise colonies in the state, Berry said.

Gopher tortoises, a federally designated “at risk” species, bury themselves in underground burrows that provide homes for dozens of other animals, he said. This makes them a keystone species on the property.

The “charismatic, docile and ancient” reptiles started moving onto the property from the nearby S.C. Department of Natural Resources Gopher Tortoise Preserve, he said.

It’s also one of the northernmost gopher tortoise colonies in the world, he said.

Also on the land are southern hognose snakes, federally protected Rafinesque’s big-eared bats, bald eagles, Florida pine snakes and eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, he said.

The Open Space Institute works with “willing landowners to buy property that we feel will create new public access and recreational opportunities,” said Michelle Sinkler, development and special projects manager for OSI’s S.C. office.

Founded in 1974, The Open Space Institute has protected nearly 2.3 million acres along eastern North America — from Quebec to Florida.

The organization’s South Carolina office, based in Charleston, opened in 2014 and has since protected over 20,000 acres.

Thursday’s massive purchase of open land is vital for the southeast region, Dana Beach said. It’s an important step toward the entire landscape being protected from future development.

This story was originally published May 21, 2021, 12:25 PM.

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