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

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Fairfax, VA

Home Care Fairfax, VA

They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Americans, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in the U.S. have worked tirelessly to build a better economy, serve their communities, and raise families.

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Fairfax Court House Historical Marker gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Fairfax, VA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Fairfax, VA

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The Always Best Care Difference

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

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

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

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TESTIMONIALS

“My family has used Always Best Care for about five months now. We are grateful for the help and advice we have received. The home health aide sent to us has been outstanding and Scott Maguire has always been available for advice. We recommend ABC to anyone who needs its services.”

Rosalind S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Scott and his staff were excellent to work with. We quickly needed all night companions at the hospital and home for more than two months. Scott responded to our needs and provided some wonderful people. Highly recommend.”

Gary V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My mother required some post-surgical assistance as she was healing from a knee replacement procedure. Scott was very helpful in arranging a dependable and compassionate caregiver for the time which we needed the assistance. I could confidently attend to my work schedule knowing that my mother was receiving the help she needed for medication reminders, meal preparation, exercise prompts and having a supportive ear during the convalescence from Sue. I recommend Always Best Care Senior Services very highly.”

Rio Z.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Scott Maquire, owner is helpful and will work with you to develop a plan that works best for your situation. My mom loves here caregiver and I highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services for peace of mind,”

Cheryl S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I had caregivers for my elderly mother from Always Best Care for close to three years, and I would unreservedly do so again. It took a little bit to find providers who were right for my mother’s particular needs (besides becoming increasingly frail, she had severe anxiety), and for my schedule (my mother was living with me), but owner Scott Maguire was extremely accessible and responsive, and ultimately we established an arrangement that worked well. The caregivers were honest, reliable, caring, and responsive to my feedback, and communication via daily logs and in-person reporting ensured I was aware of anything I needed to know. I found the advantage of working with a small company whose owner I never had trouble reaching or getting to understand my needs a huge factor in what made this agency work for me.”

Judith B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Finding Always Best Care was a game changer for me and my mom (after trying several other companies). Scott was professional and responsive. He found the perfect companion for my mom (Kendall). She was reliable, flexible, thoughtful, kind and an excellent communicator. Within a short time, my mom began asking when that "nice Kendall" was coming again. I cannot recommend ABC Senior Services highly enough. I will always be grateful for their services.”

Michelle H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our experience with Always Best Care Senior Services of Herndon was positive. Excellent communication and billing was easy.”

John E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our family was delighted to have found Always Best Care Senior Services, having been recommended by another senior care agency. They quickly responded with excellent experienced care givers who were terrific in caring for my father, giving him the attention he needed. The personal attention given by the owner was terrific. The nursing consultation was also appreciated. I highly recommend this agency.”

Robin H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“With my wife bed bound and I the only caretaker, I was soon exhausted. Scott and Always Best Care came to my rescue by providing me with the help I needed to get through this ordeal. The young lady that came 7 hours a day was a Godsend to me. She was attentive and caring and made my wife's life so much better, no to mention my own. I would not have made it through without her. Scott dealt directly with the insurance people saving me from having to manage any record keeping and payment issues. That also relieves a lot of stress. I would strongly recommend Always Best Care to anyone in need of such services.”

Tom S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider My mother was in hospice care and needed help and companionship and I couldn’t be there 24/7. Always Best Care sent providers to be with her and I can’t say enough good things about them. They were compassionate and skilled, and always there when I needed them. I could relax knowing that my mom was in good hands.”

Elizabeth
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TESTIMONIALS

“Scott and his team provided excellent companion care for Mom as her dementia progressed. They ran errands with her, provided meals for her and Dad, and generally kept her engaged and entertained during the pandemic. Scott was a wealth of knowledge and always available to help us navigate the disease and it’s effects. I highly recommend him and his team!”

Susan F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I had the good fortune to work for Scott Maguire at ABC following my move from New Hampshire to Virginia. I was with the agency for eight years until last month when I moved to Florida. Scott always cared about his clients, and had a knack for matching them with compatible caregivers. He was always available for questions and concerns. I had opportunities to work for other agencies between clients, but chose to stick with Always Best Care, because the name of the agency says it all.”

Jill B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Anyone reading this is likely where my family was. Completely exhausted and desperate. My husband and I had been primary caregivers for my in-laws when one ended up with non-COVID pneumonia and the other had a stroke followed by a fall-- all since early January. Now vaccinated, they were ready for outside help and wanted it to start right away. We had been talking to an agency throughout the process that came highly recommended, Old Dominion. But they were not able to turn around an awesome caregiver in 72 hours and recommended I call one of their friendly competitors-- Scott- At Always Best Care Senior Services in Herndon. Scott understood that we were looking for stopgap care until Old Dominion could find someone permanent and after a call Friday afternoon, he had someone at my in-laws on Monday, 8:00am. And she was terrific. It makes all the difference to have such a positive experience from the beginning. My in-laws were very pleased and appreciated that Scott had been upfront that the caregiver he had available had a thick accent and that, combined with a mask, might be challenging for someone hearing impaired. This is an issue for my mother in law and it made all the difference that she knew in advance. The other thing I appreciated is that all of Scott's caregivers are vaccinated or on their way. The one he sent was getting her second shot later in her start week with us. Unfortunately, my father-in-law is going to need a stint in skilled rehab, so we won't be continuing with Scott's wonderful caregiver. But Scott stepped up to help provide some insiders perspective on facilities. There was nothing to gain from that, except putting goodness out into the world. The process is overwhelming and it made such a difference to get his perspective. We could not have been more pleased to have had such a terrific experience and highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services if you or a loved one is looked for quality care.”

Joan B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Wow--my family has worked with a number of companies to assist us through the years in the Annandale area. This is the best. Scott Maguire--the owner is responsive, collaborative, and empathetic to unique questions and requirements. This is the company we will work with hereafter.”

Michael F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I couldn’t be happier with the care Scott and his team have provided my mother this past year. They’ve been very responsive and flexible to her changing needs. I would recommend this very well-run company to anyone seeking top-notch care for their loved one.”

Rita S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I can't say enough good things about Always Best Care. They have have been very flexible with providing services for my dad, and have a top-notch staff. We're extremely pleased!”

Dolly K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have worked with Scott in the Senior Healthcare field for over 5 years and have consistently found him to be genuinely concerned and compassionate in regards to caring for the elder population as well as extremely knowledgeable about the Senior Market in general. He is well respected in the industry and has a lot of reliable contacts to refer families to if you are looking for assistance in other areas of the industry. In a very competitive field, it is nice (and extremely important) to find someone you can trust.”

Bev O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Scott has been a great resource for two summers now, when I needed help finding a companion who could take my mom to the pool. Scott did a wonderful job finding companions who were a good fit for my mom's personality & needs, and was also quite helpful figuring out pool schedules & locations in Reston, with an eye toward accessible facilities at each one (very important as I live 3k miles away ). Scott is really good about working with the staff at the assisted living where my mom is, and the companions he hires are kind, thoughtful, and professional. Thank you, so much.”

Mira G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I found that Always Best Care went out of its way to give my mother wonderful help during a challenging time of extreme heat and intermittent power outages. I am very appreciative!”

Sheila B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They were able to find a suitable care-giver within a relatively short time frame”

Robin L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Scott Maguire at ABC was very helpful when I needed to find an assisted living facility for my mother. Later, when my mother's needs increased, ABC provided a very good companion for her. I recommend Scott and ABC without reservation.”

Charlie P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have worked with this company for many years as the leader in an assisted living community in the local Herndon neighborhood. I have found that the caregivers at "Always Best Care" were compassionate, caring and engaging with the the residents they served with our community. The management team at Always Best Care, in addition, were very responsive to any questions or concerns that we may have had and resolved issues immediately. The management team often visited their team members in the community ensuring that their employees were engaging with their clients and performing professionally in the "guest community". I would highly recommend this organization if you are looking for a team who can understand the needs of the senior as well as the needs of the family.”

Peggy B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has provided a wealth of knowledge. They helped me deal with all the issues that appeared once my Mom got sick and could no longer take care of herself. Scott shared ideas and information. He was able to direct me to VA services I didn't realize my Mom was entitled. This money thanks to Scott has allowed my Mom to stay in her home and have services provided to her. I highly recommend Scott and his caring wonderful staff at Always Best Care.”

Michael C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a very respected business in Herndon. It is always a pleasure to work with Scott and his team.”

Jon H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Scott was a huge help to the Nay family by helping us find an Assisted Living Home that suited my parent's budget and lifestyle. Scott identified our financial concerns and then went to work looking for a place for my parents. He found a great place closer to my home and my parents are thrilled with it and are able to bank money instead of wasting money at the place they were at before. Scott's referral service will always be remembered by the Nay Family”

Bill N.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Fairfax, VA?

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

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

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

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

 Senior Care Fairfax, VA

Types of Elderly Care in Fairfax, VA

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

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

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

Common personal care services include assistance with:

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

Respite Care Fairfax, VA
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Fairfax, VA
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Van Dyck Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Fairfax, VA
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Ruth's Chris Steak House or visit Ratcliffe-Logan-Allison House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

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

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

 In-Home Care Fairfax, VA

Benefits of Home Care in Fairfax, VA

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Fairfax, VA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Fairfax, VA

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your VA's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Fairfax, VA

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 Fairfax, VA understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.

Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Fairfax, VA

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Fairfax, VA

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • Cobbdale Assisted Living
  • The Gardens at Fair Oaks
  • Sunrise of Fairfax
  • The Virginian
  • Fairfax Nursing Center
  • Braddock Glen
Home Care Fairfax, VA

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Fairfax, VA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Fairfax, VA 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

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

 Elderly Care Fairfax, VA

Latest News in Fairfax, VA

Fairfax Connector agreement could end two-week bus strike

The Fairfax Connector workers’ union reached a tentative agreement with the private company that operates the buses Tuesday evening following a strike that has suspended bus service for nearly two weeks.Fast, informative and written just for locals. Get The 7 DMV newsletter in your inbox every weekday morning.The Fairfax Connector bus service, the largest bus syst...

The Fairfax Connector workers’ union reached a tentative agreement with the private company that operates the buses Tuesday evening following a strike that has suspended bus service for nearly two weeks.

Fast, informative and written just for locals. Get The 7 DMV newsletter in your inbox every weekday morning.

The Fairfax Connector bus service, the largest bus system in Northern Virginia, has been shuttered since Feb. 22, when hundreds of workers went on strike over contract negotiations for better pay and benefits. Bus service remains suspended Wednesday for the 13th consecutive day as workers vote on the agreement, according to officials at the Amalgamated Transit Union Local 689, which represents more than 600 bus drivers and mechanics. Union officials said in a statement they are “optimistic that it will be approved.”

The Connector typically serves about 26,000 passengers on 93 routes daily, some of whom had resort to using costly ride-hailing apps to get around during the strike.

“We will immediately prioritize restoring full service as soon as possible,” Mitun Seguin, a spokeswoman for Transdev, which operates the Connector, said in an emailed statement.

Fairfax bus strike, in its second week, takes a toll on commuters

The union began the strike after negotiations did not result in sufficient pay and benefits increases, union officials previously said. They argued that the current contract has left many Connector workers with meager pay that doesn’t allow them to live comfortably in the area or contribute to retirement benefits.

Union members took a strike authorization vote around Christmas, and 99 percent voted in favor of going on strike.

This isn’t the first time the Fairfax bus workers have gone on strike and affected service. In December 2019, the union went on strike over unsatisfactory pay, and some buses ran on a reduced schedule.

This story is developing and will be updated.

Historic Fairfax Courthouse

Located at the intersection of Little River Turnpike (Rte. 236) and Chain Bridge Road, the Historic Fairfax Courthouse has stood here since construction was completed in 1800. The Historic Fairfax Courthouse is the third iteration of the Fairfax County Courthouse, the first being built near Tyson’s Corner around 1742. In 1752, the Courthouse was relocated to Alexandria following pressure from Alexandrian businessmen. Virginia ceded Alexandria to the Federal Government in 1789, to make room for the construction of a “federal terri...

Located at the intersection of Little River Turnpike (Rte. 236) and Chain Bridge Road, the Historic Fairfax Courthouse has stood here since construction was completed in 1800. The Historic Fairfax Courthouse is the third iteration of the Fairfax County Courthouse, the first being built near Tyson’s Corner around 1742. In 1752, the Courthouse was relocated to Alexandria following pressure from Alexandrian businessmen. Virginia ceded Alexandria to the Federal Government in 1789, to make room for the construction of a “federal territory,” now known as the District of Columbia. As the county court could not meet outside the boundaries of the county, a new location was earnestly sought. In 1798, Richard Ratcliffe donated four acres of land for the construction of the Fairfax Courthouse in the town of Providence (now the City of Fairfax).

In 1799, work started on the new courthouse using a design by architect James Wren. The first court session was heard in the new courthouse on April 21, 1800. Situated at a county crossroads (Little River Turnpike and Chain Bridge Road), the courthouse would have been surrounded by open fields. Providence was a very rural town, but the presence of the courthouse soon demanded certain amenities. A large tavern built opposite the courthouse, known as the Wilcoxen Tavern, served as hostelry and unofficial offices for the justices and lawyers who travelled here each month for court. In 1844, a cupola and bell were added to the courthouse for the purposes of calling court into session.

Court was interrupted during the Civil War, and damage to the courthouse interior was inflicted by both Union and Confederate troops. Immediately after the war, the courthouse was renovated. Photographs taken in the early twentieth century show several renovations of the interior, including changes in the orientation of seating and wooden paneling behind the judge’s bench.

The last major changes to the courthouse occurred during the 1967 renovation by architect Walter Macomber, who was directed to give the interior a more historic feel. Changes included the addition of 19th century benches from Jerusalem Baptist Church, and more colonial-style wainscoting. Circuit Court was held in the Historic Fairfax Courthouse until the creation of the Judicial Center in the 1980s, and Juvenile Court was held here until 2008.

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New Taco Bamba set to open in Fair Lakes shopping center next month

Nashville-based Taco Bamba is set to open a new location in the Fair Lakes Promenade shopping center next week, with prizes for the first 100 guests.The grand opening is slated for Friday, April 5, Taco Bamba chef and founder Victor Albisu announced in a press release.The doors at 12239 Fair Lakes...

Nashville-based Taco Bamba is set to open a new location in the Fair Lakes Promenade shopping center next week, with prizes for the first 100 guests.

The grand opening is slated for Friday, April 5, Taco Bamba chef and founder Victor Albisu announced in a press release.

The doors at 12239 Fair Lakes Promenade Drive will open at 9 a.m., with the first 100 guests receiving a free coffee tumbler and a “golden ticket” that could yield a variety of gifts, such as menu items, mezcal, t-shirts and hats. A select few will win a year’s supply of tacos, per the release.

Occupying a 2,140-square-foot space, the new restaurant will have a similar feel to its sister locations with a full bar and patio, original artwork and a menu of location-unique tacos, quesadillas, nachos, empanadas and cocktails.

With warmer weather on the horizon, the location will welcome guests and their pets to an outdoor “Taco Bamba Houndgarden” patio.

Taco Bamba has 13 locations spread out across the D.C. area, Raleigh, North Carolina, and Nashville, Tennessee. This will be the 10th Taco Bamba in Northern Virginia, including eight locations in Fairfax County and two others in Arlington.

Several more plan to open in areas such as Richmond and Sterling.

“Taco Bamba has been going through a rapid period of growth in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions and while entering markets is exciting for our brand, developing new menus for our hometown neighborhoods is both challenging and rewarding,” Albisu said in the release. “Our super fans hold Taco Bamba to a high standard so we doubled down on creativity for this location.”

Menu highlights include neighborhood-specific tacos such as “Moby’s Hog” with gyro-spiced pork, the “PF Chango” with sweet and sour chicken or cauliflower, and the “Can I See A Manager” with chipotle bourbon brisket.

Beyond tacos, the menu offers ceviche, Mexican street corn, and a mixed fajita empanada, alongside a selection of mezcal-based cocktails curated by Beverage Director Amin Seddiq. Notable drinks include the “Oaxacan Tea Garden” and “In Dew Time,” according to the release.

In 2015, Albisu was named “Chef of the Year” by the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington. In 2020 and 2016, he was nominated for a James Beard Foundation award as “Best Chef Mid-Atlantic.”

Taco Bamba will be open in Fair Lakes from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.

80 Affordable Apartments For Seniors Open At Ilda's Overlook

FAIRFAX, VA — Fairfax County elected officials joined affordable housing advocates on Thursday to celebrate the grand opening of Ilda's Overlook, a new senior living facility located off Braddock Road in the Braddock District.The project was a joint effort by the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing, Erickson Senior Living, Virginia Housing and the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority"Seniors are the backbone of our society, who have devoted their lives to building the nation that we call home,&...

FAIRFAX, VA — Fairfax County elected officials joined affordable housing advocates on Thursday to celebrate the grand opening of Ilda's Overlook, a new senior living facility located off Braddock Road in the Braddock District.

The project was a joint effort by the Arlington Partnership for Affordable Housing, Erickson Senior Living, Virginia Housing and the Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority

"Seniors are the backbone of our society, who have devoted their lives to building the nation that we call home," said APAH Board Chair Rich Jordan. "They deserve to live out their sunset years in dignity, comfort and security."

Ilda's Overlook includes 80 high-quality, affordable apartments for adults 62 and older. One- and two-bedroom apartments are available for households with incomes at or below $89,943, which is 60 percent of the area median income. As of Thursday, 50 percent of the units have already been spoken for.

"Today, they have a place to call home in an affordable environment," Jordan said. "Because of Ilda's Overlook, seniors that have spent years serving our communities can afford to stay in this community and continue to be productive citizens of Fairfax County."

In March 2022, the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors voted to double it previous goal of building 5,000 affordable housing units by 2034 to 10,000 units.

Although that number was ambitious, it still fell short of the 15,000 units the county's Affordable Housing Resources Panel predicted would be needed to meet the county's affordable housing needs.

APAH President & CEO Carmen Romero told those who'd gathered at Ilda's Overlook for the ribbon-cutting ceremony`that 375,000 additional housing units were needed to meet the housing demand in the Washington, D.C. region.

"We've got a homelessness problem that is increased double digits year over year," she said. "And the largest cohort in that are seniors."

Not only was Board Chair Jeff McKay (D-At-Large) proud that the board of supervisors had made it a goal to build more affordable housing, but that it was dedicated to putting more affordable housing in every corner of the county.

"For too long in Fairfax, it has been politically acceptable to build affordable housing in pockets of the county, but keep it off limits to certain ZIP codes," he said. "What this Board of Supervisors is doing is making sure it's another day in Fairfax County where affordable housing is needed in every corner of the county and it should not be judged based on what ZIP code you're in."

Located on the former site of the Northern Virginia Training Center, Ilda's Overlook is a stone's throw from the George Mason University campus and the City of Fairfax.

"We also have there the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute just a few miles from here," Supervisor James Walkinshaw (D-Braddock) said. "We have our Wellness Center for older adults, where older adults have free access to health care screenings, yoga classes, dance classes, art therapy, all kinds of incredible opportunities there."

Fairfax County Hasn't Rebounded From COVID Population Loss: Census

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — More Northern Virginia counties and cities than not grew in 2023, according to new Census Bureau population estimates.The ...

FAIRFAX COUNTY, VA — More Northern Virginia counties and cities than not grew in 2023, according to new Census Bureau population estimates.

The Vintage 2023 report released March 14 showed more U.S. counties saw population growth than decline, with the fastest growth occurring in the South and population losses mostly concentrated in the Northeast and Midwest, regions that saw their populations plunge with the pandemic.

In the Northern Virginia region, eight of the nine counties and independent cities grew, according to the estimates. That compares to four counties or cities that grew in 2022.

In Fairfax County, the estimated population changed from 1,139,309 in 2022 to 1,141,878 in 2023. Although the population estimate did go up, it still had a long way to go to match the population estimate of 1,148,672 in 2020.

Virginia's population overall increased from 8,679,099 to 8,715,698 in 2023, according to the Census estimate.

Find out what's happening in McLeanwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Overall, 60 percent (1,876) of U.S. counties gained population in 2023, an increase from 52 percent (1,649) of counties that grew from 2021 to 2022.

Regions of the country that saw large numbers of people leaving during the early pandemic are starting to recover, Lauren Bowers, who heads the Census Bureau’s Population Estimates Branch, said in a news release. At the same time, growth is slowing in some areas of the West, such as Arizona and Idaho.

The report also showed that 80 percent of U.S. counties saw populations grow through immigration. The highest numbers were in Miami-Dade County, Florida, and Harris County, Texas. All counties in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and Rhode Island experienced positive net international migration.

Florida saw growth in 96 percent of its 67 counties. Other states where a large percentage of counties grew were Idaho and Tennessee.

The 10 fastest-growing counties with a population of 20,000 or more were in the South — six in Texas, two in Georgia, and one each in South Carolina and Virginia. Virginia's New Kent County between Richmond and Hampton Roads ranked 10th among America's fastest growing counties.

Eight of the 10 counties that led the nation with the highest population increases were in Texas. At the same time, Maricopa County, Arizona, which had been the fastest growing county in 2022, dropped to No. 4, and Polk County, Florida, the only other non-Texas county in the top 10, came in at No. 5.

The fastest-declining counties of 20,000 or more were Lassen County, California, and Randolph County, Missouri. The population in Bronx County, New York, also continued to decline.

Los Angeles County, California, saw the greatest population loss in 2023, with 56,420 in 2023 — following a loss of 89,697 people in 2022. Kings, Queens, and Bronx counties in New York followed with population losses of 28,306; 26,362; and 25,332, respectively.

Among other large declines were Cook County, Illinois, which lost 24,494 people; Philadelphia County, Pennsylvania, which lost 16,294 people; and Orange County, California, which lost 14,617 people.

The report noted that as the nation’s death rate declined in 2023 from pandemic-era highs, so did population decreases as a result of natural causes. Deaths outnumbered births in fewer counties in 2023, with 69 percent reporting a natural decrease in population, compared to 74 percent in 2022.

Births outnumbered deaths in nearly one-third (31 percent) of counties in 2023, led by Alaska and New Jersey. The counties with the highest levels of natural population increases in 2023 were Harris County, Texas; Los Angeles County, California; Dallas County, Texas; Kings County, New York; and Tarrant County, Texas.

Almost three-fourths (73 percent) of the nation’s 387 metro areas saw population growth from 2022 to 2023. Approximately 58 percent of the nation’s 538 “micro areas” — urban areas of 10,000-50,000 population — saw their populations increase.

The Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV Metro Area saw the estimated population increase from 6,265,891 to 6,304,975. In the Arlington-Alexandria-Reston, VA-WV subregion, population rose from 3,137,244 to 3,154,735.

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