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.
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 Castle On The Hill 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 Oak Ridge, TN is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 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.
“Always Best Care provided amazing and professional care for my Mom in a very difficult”
“Always Best Care provides exceptional senior care. They provided care for my dad who”
“Thank you for providing us with compassionate and reliable sitters. They were amazing.”
“Thank you for providing us with compassionate and reliable sitters. They were amazing.”
“SO GLAD we found Always Best Care!! Lynn Pique was easy to work with &”
“Always Best Care first assisted us with my Mom while she was living in our”
“My Dad has had great care & the staff has been so great to help”
“The girls at Always Best Care are loving and caring. They do a great job”
“I would recommend Always Best Care and have. Their caregivers are very attentive and go”
“always Best Care has provided consistency and highly professional. I appreciate that my caregivers are”
“I appreciate that I can call the owner anytime and get what I need. My”
“Always Best Care has been very reliable and does what they say they will do.”
“The office staff was very nice, they called and followed up and if I had”
“Our caregiver is reliable, empathetic, always there for us and does what she needs to”
“I like that they are prompt and provide good people”
“the caregivers were very kind and considerate and very nice people. They made my dad”
“They are reliable and the person they sent us is responsible and know what he”
“Our caregiver is punctual and professional and is committed to my wife’s well-being. She is”
“The quality of Care is excellent. They are professional and the do the job well.”
“the office staff is very friendly, helpful and make sure we are cared for. I”
“they have been very accommodating with my schedule. I have gotten some very good helpers.”
“I want to thank you and Audra. If I hear of anyone looking for in-home”
“I like their management staff. They are good to work with.”
“I like their flexibility of their services.”
“They are Great”
“I don’t have to worry because my mother is being well taken Care of.”
“I was with two other agencies and then I found Always Best Care. My wife”
“One thing she does well is puts my wife as priority one. And it works”
“I could always count on them to show up and provide good care.”
“The caregivers are very proactive in anticipating the things I need help with”
“They went over and beyond”
“Always Best Care has sent good caregivers that have helped me get better”
“I appreciate that my care giver is willing to help and take care of things.”
“Them being available has been very helpful to me.”
“They were very accommodating, quick to respond and easy to work with.”
“The Caregivers are very neat, well-spoken and good people.”
“Always Best Care was compassionate, personable, caring and paid attention to detail.”
“So comforting to have the personal resource and knowledge that Always Best Care has caring”
“Your service to my deceased wife and I has been outstanding for the past few”
“Andrew, Clay, Lynn and the entire team at Always Best Care take a compassionate and”
“My children have peace of mind knowing Always Best Care is caring for me”
“We love our team of care providers. We couldn’t do it without them.”
“My children have peace of mind knowing Always Best Care is caring for me”
“Just want to express my thanks for everything Always Best Care has done to help”
“Thank you again for your help! Great employees and great company!”
“After moving from Florida to TN mom had been missing her friends, Melissa comes and”
“I love the fact that whenever I call Always Best Care will have my mother”
“We thank you for your services and the good care provided by your employee Belisa.”
“Wonderful caring staff”
“Your care providers were more than excellent. 10 plus! Compliments to Always Best Care, I”
“I am a current client of this provider My husband has been a client of this”
“Lynn was a Godsend and took great care of my mom. Deb was a huge”
“I must express my appreciation to you for your help along with all of the”
“Thank You! It was comforting and reassuring knowing mom was cared for well, and safely”
“I am a current client of this provider We are working with Always Best Care for”
“You all have been such a huge blessing to our dad and his situation. Many”
“We have completed our first week back home, and we never could have made it”
“We have completed our first week back home, and we never could have made it”
“Our services with ABC are going really great! I am so pleased, I am appreciative”
“After wonderful care of my Aunt and my Mom, I am happy to recommend ABC”
“Tracey and Lydia have been working out real well. They both go above board in”
“ABC has provided care for both my father-in-law and my sister. When my mother-in-law died”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care of Knoxville if you or an elderly loved one”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care of Knoxville if you or an elderly loved one”
“Andrew Scruggs takes each Senior's care to heart and goes beyond the call to ensure”
“It’s the best”
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ As an employee of Always Best Care for 2+ years, I am thankful for”
“Love working with the company and I LOVE BEING A CAREGIVER! Great experience.”
“Always Best Care has been my lifeline from the past few years. My mother moved”
“Andrew's company is a breath of fresh air when looking for accountable senior in-home care”
“Always Best Care has been my lifeline from the past few years. My mother moved”
“I am a past client of this provider Personalized service and care. In-home care was excellent;”
“I am a past client of this provider We have been very pleased with the assistance”
“We have been very pleased with the assistance from all of you, during some very”
“I am so grateful for the excellent care provided to my dad by three different”
“I am a current client of this provider I am so grateful for the excellent care”
“I have worked with ABC for 5+ years and love this company. I also have”
“Personalized service and care. In-home care was excellent; professional and personal. Assisted living placement was”
“Care with dignity and compassion. Able to staff within hours. Knowledgeable and CNA trained.”
“Care with dignity and compassion. Able to staff within hours. Knowledgeable and CNA trained.”
“Always Best Care provided amazing and professional care for my Mom in a very difficult time for our family. They arranged care around the clock with very little notice. Every care taker that sat with my Mom was kind, respectful and went over the top to make sure she was safe and comfortable. I would highly recommend their services for any level of care.”
“Always Best Care provides exceptional senior care. They provided care for my dad who was in hospice. The individuals that provide the care are very caring and strive to keep the patient as comfortable as possible. I was extremely pleased. In my case we needed 24 hour care, but they provide both care during the day or evening and can help with some chores around the house which was very helpful. Also, I was pleased with those who took care of my dad. The care givers are all extremely kind and empathetic not just for the needs of the patient, but to the family. I would give them an A+ - I am quite guarded about endorsements, but for how they supported our situation for our family, I felt it was important to share my experience with those that need this support.”
“Thank you for providing us with compassionate and reliable sitters. They were amazing.”
“Thank you for providing us with compassionate and reliable sitters. They were amazing.”
“SO GLAD we found Always Best Care!! Lynn Pique was easy to work with & ready with great referrals for things she doesn't cover. We got a call that my mom's assisted living facility was shutting down & I found myself with only a WEEK to find her a new place AND get her moved in! Some said it couldn't be done -- and if I hadn't had Lynn and the movers she referred me to, I probably wouldn't have made my deadline. I had done a great deal of exploration before I tracked down Lynn. I was VERY RELUCTANT to use a "service" to find another assisted living facility for my mom, as we'd had a HORRIBLE experience the last time with "A Place for Mom" -- they were SO BAD -- However, a friend recommended Lynn, so I called her. She, too, had had a bad experience with that Place, so she understood my hesitation. She gave me a few places and I called. I felt like she definitely knew the properties better than I did AND she NEVER pressured me about anything. She was useful, kind and patient through the entire maddening process -- SO MANY things to consider! This is not an easy business to be in & there is a LOT of competition for few rooms available -- especially when a whole facility is shutting down & everyone is looking for new apartments.”
“Always Best Care first assisted us with my Mom while she was living in our home and they provided wonderfully caring adults who sat with my Mom when I was at work or out-of-town. Then, when she needed more consistent care, Andrew and his team helped me in the selection of Raintree Terrace which was a wonderful and successful nine years for my Mom. I recently found her diary after she passed away and she even noted about visits from Andrew, and how wonderful her friends and caregivers were and how much she loved her "home". After she needed even more help we moved her to a Nursing Facility and I hired Andrew's Team to sit with her as companions. Throughout my Mom's later years, Always Best Care has been prompt to provided wonderful caregivers and they have listened well to my needs for the care of my Mom. I can't say enought of how much that lifted so many worries and concerns from our family. Thank you Always Best Care!!!!!!!”
“My Dad has had great care & the staff has been so great to help me with his home care needs! I highly recommend this company! They really work hard to meet expectations for the needs & safety of your parent in their home!”
“The girls at Always Best Care are loving and caring. They do a great job with my mom.”
“I would recommend Always Best Care and have. Their caregivers are very attentive and go above and beyond what is asked.”
“always Best Care has provided consistency and highly professional. I appreciate that my caregivers are timely.”
“I appreciate that I can call the owner anytime and get what I need. My caregivers are very helpful, sweet and decent.”
“Always Best Care has been very reliable and does what they say they will do.”
“The office staff was very nice, they called and followed up and if I had a question I got in touch with them immediately. They exceeded my expectations.”
“Our caregiver is reliable, empathetic, always there for us and does what she needs to do.”
“I like that they are prompt and provide good people”
“the caregivers were very kind and considerate and very nice people. They made my dad feel comfortable.”
“They are reliable and the person they sent us is responsible and know what he is doing. He’s always on time.”
“Our caregiver is punctual and professional and is committed to my wife’s well-being. She is a phenomenal person.”
“The quality of Care is excellent. They are professional and the do the job well.”
“the office staff is very friendly, helpful and make sure we are cared for. I appreciate their attentiveness to my husband.”
“they have been very accommodating with my schedule. I have gotten some very good helpers.”
“I want to thank you and Audra. If I hear of anyone looking for in-home care and assisted living referral service, I will not hesitate to recommend Always Best Care.”
“I like their management staff. They are good to work with.”
“I like their flexibility of their services.”
“They are Great”
“I don’t have to worry because my mother is being well taken Care of.”
“I was with two other agencies and then I found Always Best Care. My wife has been able to bond with her care provider and I can still work. I’m totally comfortable leaving the house with her.”
“One thing she does well is puts my wife as priority one. And it works out well.”
“I could always count on them to show up and provide good care.”
“The caregivers are very proactive in anticipating the things I need help with”
“They went over and beyond”
“Always Best Care has sent good caregivers that have helped me get better”
“I appreciate that my care giver is willing to help and take care of things.”
“Them being available has been very helpful to me.”
“They were very accommodating, quick to respond and easy to work with.”
“The Caregivers are very neat, well-spoken and good people.”
“Always Best Care was compassionate, personable, caring and paid attention to detail.”
“So comforting to have the personal resource and knowledge that Always Best Care has caring people.”
“Your service to my deceased wife and I has been outstanding for the past few years and I have nothing but praise for their work. I’m particularly want to draw attention Ms. Erin who served our needs the longest period since August of 2019. Nothing but praise for her performance.”
“Andrew, Clay, Lynn and the entire team at Always Best Care take a compassionate and personal approach to caring for their clients. They are invested in the success of Knoxville’s senior health industry and consistently support area programs and businesses who serve our golden generation. I am grateful for everything they do.”
“My children have peace of mind knowing Always Best Care is caring for me”
“We love our team of care providers. We couldn’t do it without them.”
“My children have peace of mind knowing Always Best Care is caring for me”
“Just want to express my thanks for everything Always Best Care has done to help with my handicapped son, Grant. Clay and the team at Always Best have been nothing but phenomenal since day one.”
“Thank you again for your help! Great employees and great company!”
“After moving from Florida to TN mom had been missing her friends, Melissa comes and makes a difference in her day. She truly feels a connection with her care provider. Thank you so much!”
“I love the fact that whenever I call Always Best Care will have my mother in law on the schedule the next day. We have a unique case and they are very accommodating.”
“We thank you for your services and the good care provided by your employee Belisa. We enjoyed getting to know her and having her in our home. We wish she and Always Best Care the very best for 2020.”
“Wonderful caring staff”
“Your care providers were more than excellent. 10 plus! Compliments to Always Best Care, I loved each and every person I met, I will use you again. Thank you for everything!”
“I am a current client of this provider My husband has been a client of this agency for almost 4 years. He suffers from dementia and other health problems. We received in home care for him for about 40-36 hours per week. We had one exceptional caregiver for most of that time. She was a most kind and helpful woman who provided companionship,cleaning and cooking. When we at times needed a substitute,they were generally also kind and helpful. If we had one who was not a good match, we reported that to the agency,and never saw that caregiver again. We continue to use this agency even though my husband is in memory care assisted living in a residence. They are able to provide good caregivers,most of them CNA's, on short notice when he requires hospitalization,so that I do not need to stay in the room with him 24/7.”
“Lynn was a Godsend and took great care of my mom. Deb was a huge blessing too. Your assistance has been overwhelmingly appreciated. I would recommend this company to anyone needing care.”
“I must express my appreciation to you for your help along with all of the office staff and our caregivers! We are so very appreciative for the care and concern shown to my dad and his wife. Sandra has been so patient and kind with the numerous texts I have sent her in recent days. You folks have been a blessing to our family!”
“Thank You! It was comforting and reassuring knowing mom was cared for well, and safely while I was out of the country. I will be using ABC on a permanent basis.”
“I am a current client of this provider We are working with Always Best Care for my mother. So far it has been really good. I'm pleased with it. They mostly do domestic things. They help around the house. I would recommend them. We only have to deal with one person and she has been really good.”
“You all have been such a huge blessing to our dad and his situation. Many gave up, but you didn’t. He had the BEST quality care, we were praying for. The office staff were ALWAYS available and Hailey was a God send to our daddy”
“We have completed our first week back home, and we never could have made it without you!! The ladies you sent to care for us are wonderful—excellent in their positions, considerate, and a delight to have in our home. They know how to cook too! We, all of us, are so grateful and cannot thank you enough.”
“We have completed our first week back home, and we never could have made it without you!! The ladies you sent to care for us are wonderful—excellent in their positions, considerate, and a delight to have in our home. They know how to cook too! We, all of us, are so grateful and cannot thank you enough.”
“Our services with ABC are going really great! I am so pleased, I am appreciative of you the ABC team! I have peace of mind knowing ABC is engaging my with mom”
“After wonderful care of my Aunt and my Mom, I am happy to recommend ABC care to anyone!”
“Tracey and Lydia have been working out real well. They both go above board in cleaning and taking care of dad. He likes their company. Deanna is his favorite and I believe most of his healing is due to her encouragement.”
“ABC has provided care for both my father-in-law and my sister. When my mother-in-law died we needed someone to stay with my father-in-law during the day and help him get to meals and provide companionship. ABC was always very accommodating to his schedule. Since the care we needed for him was for three months, they were able to schedule consistent caregivers who became familiar with him and his schedule. I highly recommend ABC”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care of Knoxville if you or an elderly loved one is in need of professional in-home care. The office staff and especially the caregivers go beyond what is expected of them and provide peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in the best hands when it comes to being cared for.”
“I highly recommend Always Best Care of Knoxville if you or an elderly loved one is in need of professional in-home care. The office staff and especially the caregivers go beyond what is expected of them and provide peace of mind knowing that your loved one is in the best hands when it comes to being cared for.”
“Andrew Scruggs takes each Senior's care to heart and goes beyond the call to ensure quality and compassionate care is provided.”
“It’s the best”
“⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ As an employee of Always Best Care for 2+ years, I am thankful for the care that they do not forget to show to me - as well as creating a team centered workplace! The difference we make in our clients' lives is clearly evident and I am proud to be part of a company that truly gives our BEST CARE- ALWAYS!”
“Love working with the company and I LOVE BEING A CAREGIVER! Great experience.”
“Always Best Care has been my lifeline from the past few years. My mother moved with us after we lost my father around four years ago in a car accident. But as my husband and I both work, we weren’t able to manage my mom’s declining health. This is when we decided to hire Always Best Care. Their caregivers are knowledgeable, honest, compassionate, and always ready to go the extra mile to meet your needs. They have been a great help to us in all these years. I would highly recommend them.”
“Andrew's company is a breath of fresh air when looking for accountable senior in-home care options. No contractors here. Only supervised employees which bring a great peace of mind. Highly recommended.”
“Always Best Care has been my lifeline from the past few years. My mother moved with us after we lost my father around four years ago in a car accident. But as my husband and I both work, we weren’t able to manage my mom’s declining health. This is when we decided to hire Always Best Care. Their caregivers are knowledgeable, honest, compassionate, and always ready to go the extra mile to meet your needs. They have been a great help to us in all these years. I would highly recommend them.”
“I am a past client of this provider Personalized service and care. In-home care was excellent; professional and personal. Assisted living placement was also excellent. The owner, Andrew, had compassion while coaching us and giving us confidence in the difficult process of moving our mother out of her home and into an assisted living. We could not be more pleased with their services. - Marshall L Wilkins”
“I am a past client of this provider We have been very pleased with the assistance from all of you, during some very difficult times. Thanks to all of you! - Lester & Anne S.”
“We have been very pleased with the assistance from all of you, during some very difficult times. Thanks to all of you! - Lester & Anne S.”
“I am so grateful for the excellent care provided to my dad by three different caregivers! They each stepped into a different challenging and fluid situation and they each beautifully managed things with grace and skill. I always knew my dad was in good hands and that he would get everything he needed.. Furthermore, I appreciated the gracious flexibility and understanding I experienced when coordinating times, days and duties over the phone with the administrative staff. Each time I got off the phone, I felt like ABC had completely taken the stressful load off my shoulders and that my dad was going to be cared for in a loving,, competent fashion. ABC deserves the highest ranking and review I can give. Thanks for being there for me and my dad!!”
“I am a current client of this provider I am so grateful for the excellent care provided by three different caregivers! They each stepped into a different challenging and fluid situation and they each beautifully managed things with grace and skill. I always knew my dad was in good hands and that he would get everything he needed.. Furthermore, I appreciated the gracious flexibility and understanding I experienced when coordinating times, days and duties over the phone with the administrative staff. Each time I got off the phone, I felt like ABC had completely taken the stressful load off my shoulders and that my dad was going to be cared for in a loving,, competent fashion. ABC deserves the highest ranking and review I can give. Thanks for being there for me and my dad!!”
“I have worked with ABC for 5+ years and love this company. I also have had the privilege of my family providing work for others through this company. The owners and staff are great to be around and I wouldn't trade them for the world.”
“Personalized service and care. In-home care was excellent; professional and personal. Assisted living placement was also excellent. The owner, Andrew, had compassion while coaching us and giving us confidence in the difficult process of moving our mother out of her home and into an assisted living. We could not be more pleased with their services.”
“Care with dignity and compassion. Able to staff within hours. Knowledgeable and CNA trained.”
“Care with dignity and compassion. Able to staff within hours. Knowledgeable and CNA trained.”
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.
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 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.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home 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:
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:
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 A K Bissell Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
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 Fire & Salt or visit Secret City Commemorative Walk, 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.
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:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
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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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.
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 Oak Ridge, TN, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.
Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.
Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.
For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.
More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.
In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.
With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
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:
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 Oak Ridge, TN understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
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 Oak Ridge, TN 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.
When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.
Visitors to the former Oak Ridge Gaseous Diffusion Plant can view the footprint of what was once the world’s largest building from a new vantage point now that an interpretive center overlooking the site of the K-25 Building has opened. September 2, 2025From left, American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE) Foundation Executive Director Alan Lowe, UCOR President and CEO Ken Rueter, Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management Manager Erik Olds, Roane County Executive Wade Creswell, Tennessee Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, William ...
Visitors to the former Oak Ridge Gaseous Diffusion Plant can view the footprint of what was once the world’s largest building from a new vantage point now that an interpretive center overlooking the site of the K-25 Building has opened. September 2, 2025
From left, American Museum of Science and Energy (AMSE) Foundation Executive Director Alan Lowe, UCOR President and CEO Ken Rueter, Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management Manager Erik Olds, Roane County Executive Wade Creswell, Tennessee Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, William H. Wilcox, son of William J. Wilcox, Oak Ridge City Mayor Warren Gooch, AMSE Development Director Jennifer Lee, AMSE Board President Jim Dodson, former Y-12 Plant Manager Gordon Fee, and Oak Ridge Historian Ray Smith cut the ribbon to open the new K-25 Interpretive Center.
OAK RIDGE, Tenn. — Visitors to the former Oak Ridge Gaseous Diffusion Plant can view the entire footprint of what was once the world’s largest building from a new vantage point now that an interpretive center overlooking the site of the mile-long K-25 Building has opened.
K-25 was one of five large gaseous diffusion uranium enrichment facilities at the Oak Ridge location, now called East Tennessee Technology Park (ETTP). Constructed in 1943, it produced enriched uranium used in the weaponry that helped end World War II.
Local elected officials and other dignitaries recently gathered to celebrate the opening of the viewing facility, called the William J. Wilcox Jr. K-25 Interpretive Center.
The center is named after Oak Ridge’s first official historian, an original resident of the city when it came into existence in the 1940s. The late Wilcox ultimately became the technical director for all research and development programs for the plant, and he used his extensive knowledge from his 43 years of service to educate future generations about what was accomplished at the site.
Attendees included Tennessee Lt. Gov. Randy McNally, Roane County Executive Wade Creswell, Oak Ridge City Mayor Warren Gooch, Oak Ridge City Councilman Jim Dodson, American Museum of Science and Energy Foundation Executive Director Alan Lowe, UCOR President and CEO Ken Rueter, and Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management (OREM) Manager Erik Olds.
“Our employees are proud to be part of the accomplished history of this site, and their efforts have played a pivotal role in making today possible,” said Olds. “Our cleanup has paved the way for the public to be able to enter and experience a site that was once off limits, and it has created an exciting next chapter involving new businesses, new jobs, and new visitors through our land transfers, historic preservation, and conservation.”
A scaled model of the K-25 Building is located on the top floor of the K-25 Interpretive Center. It provides additional insight into the size of the former structure as visitors view the building’s massive 44-acre footprint.
OREM and cleanup contractor UCOR completed demolition of the K-25 Building in 2013, leaving behind a massive 44-acre footprint that was impossible to fully view from ground level. With the interpretive center’s elevated view, the entire footprint is visible. The facility also features displays and exhibits, including a scaled model of the building, detailing K-25’s extraordinary contributions through the years.
Construction of the center fulfills an agreement OREM signed in 2012 to commemorate the history of the former Oak Ridge Gaseous Diffusion Plant. That commitment also included construction of the K-25 History Center next to the interpretive center, as well as preservation of the historic Alexander Inn.
Crews completed construction of the interpretive center through a partnership among OREM, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and contractor Geiger Brothers. UCOR and subcontractor Smee + Busby Architects designed the facility.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and its construction contractor, Geiger Brothers, completed construction on the K-25 Interpretive Center. The facility helps visitors understand the size and scope of the former Manhattan Project and Cold War-era uranium enrichment complex.
“This center is an important piece commemorating the historical significance of the K-25 Building, and its construction completes one of the final tasks to achieve our vision for the site,” said Mark McIntosh, ETTP portfolio federal project director. “We’ve finished major field work to clean the site, and our efforts have also made it possible for future generations to learn about what was accomplished here.”
The interpretive center is the latest installation on a site that has seen major transformation during the past three decades. OREM and UCOR have completed demolition and soil remediation at the site, marking the first-ever cleanup of a gaseous diffusion complex.
As OREM completed cleanup, it simultaneously made land available for new businesses. To date, 1,800 acres of former government land have been transferred to the community for economic development. That land is attracting companies investing billions of dollars, creating new jobs and advancing energy technologies to meet the nation’s future power needs.
-Contributor: Wayne McKinney
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a Request for Proposal (RFP) from companies seeking to build and power AI data centers at DOE’s Oak Ridge Reservation in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.Two sites at the reservation are available for consideration, one at the East Tennessee Technology Park and another on land next to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).The applicants will be responsible for the construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning of the data center project. According to the DOE, they will also nee...
The US Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a Request for Proposal (RFP) from companies seeking to build and power AI data centers at DOE’s Oak Ridge Reservation in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
Two sites at the reservation are available for consideration, one at the East Tennessee Technology Park and another on land next to the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL).
The applicants will be responsible for the construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning of the data center project. According to the DOE, they will also need to secure a utility connection agreement for new power generation and battery storage systems.
“This RFP represents more than a ground lease for AI data center development; it offers US companies a potential chance to anchor their partnership with one of our nation’s greatest assets, our National Labs. From its Manhattan Project roots to its present leadership in advanced computing, Oak Ridge exemplifies the continuum of American innovation that will help power the AI revolution,” said Dr. Darío Gil, under secretary for science.
“With President Trump’s leadership, the Department is advancing America’s energy abundance together with the gold standard science of our labs to secure US leadership in the new age of artificial intelligence and energy dominance.”
The DOE will competitively evaluate proposals based on their technological readiness, financial viability, and detailed plans for completing regulatory and permitting requirements.
The proposals are due by December 1, 2025. The DOE has announced that it will sponsor an industry day event on October 15 to provide applicants with more information on the solicitation process, requirements outlined in the RFP, and provide a tour of the sites available for consideration.
Oak Ridge was one of several sites identified by the DOE in July for the development of data centers on federal land.
Oak Ridge is a 33,508-acre federally owned site located in the counties of Anderson and Roane in eastern Tennessee. The reservation is home to two primary DOE operations, the ORNL and the Y-12 National Security Complex. ORNL was established in 1943 as the site of the Manhattan Project.
In other news, the DOE selected four advanced nuclear companies to improve the country’s domestic supply chains for nuclear fuel.
The DOE selected Oklo, Terrestrial Energy, Triso-X, and Valar Atomics for the Advanced Nuclear Fuel Line Pilot to construct advanced nuclear fuel lines. The project aims to reduce reliance on foreign sources of enriched uranium and support the DOE’s Reactor Pilot Program.
The nuclear fuel line pilot will enable selected companies to leverage the DOE’s authorization process, ensuring a robust supply of fuel is available for research, development, and demonstration purposes.
“President Trump has made clear that a strong nuclear sector is a central component of America’s energy security and prosperity,” said Deputy Secretary of Energy James P. Danly. “Restoring a secure domestic fuel supply will ensure that advanced reactors can move quickly from design to deployment and into operation. The ability to produce these fuels is essential to ensuring American leadership in nuclear energy and to meeting the nation’s growing demand for reliable power.”
As part of the pilot, Oklo will build and operate three fuel fabrication facilities to support its Aurora and Pluto reactors, as well as potentially other fast reactors, at its base in Santa Clara, California.
Terrestrial Energy intends to develop its Terrestrial Energy Fuel Line Assembly to demonstrate a fuel salt fabrication process in a phased approach at its headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina.
TRISO-X will construct and operate an additional fuel fabrication laboratory facility to enable pilot-scale integration, training, and system validation, supporting the TX-1 commercial TRISO fuel fabrication facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee.
Finally, Valar will utilize the pilot to support its TRISO fuel fabrication for the Ward250 reactor deployment and potentially other high-temperature gas reactors in Hawthorne, California.
The companies will be responsible for the costs associated with the construction, operation, and decommissioning of their fuel fabrication facilities. Additionally, the companies will need to manage the sourcing of nuclear material feedstock. They will also have the ability to apply for the supply of high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) through the DOE’s HALEU Availability Program.
The DOE selected 11 advanced nuclear reactor projects to participate in its Reactor Pilot Program in August. As part of the program, the DOE will support companies in constructing, operating, and achieving criticality of at least three test reactors using the DOE authorization process by July 4, 2026.
Valar, Terrestrial, and Oklo were selected as participants in both programs. Aalo Atomics, Antares Nuclear, Atomic Alchemy, Deep Fission, Last Energy, Natura Resources, and Radiant are the other participants in the Reactor Pilot Program.
OAK RIDGE, Tenn. (WVLT) - The City of Oak Ridge is counting down the days until the inaugural Atomic Fall Fest on Sept. 26 and 27 in A.K. Bissell Park.The community-wide celebration will take place Friday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 27. The event will feature live music, free family activities, arts and craft vendors and more.Formerly known as the Secret City Festival, the Atomic Fall Festival will be a free, family-friendly event to celebrate the City of Oak Ridge.“We have the Lavender Festival in June, so we th...
OAK RIDGE, Tenn. (WVLT) - The City of Oak Ridge is counting down the days until the inaugural Atomic Fall Fest on Sept. 26 and 27 in A.K. Bissell Park.
The community-wide celebration will take place Friday, Sept. 26 and Saturday, Sept. 27. The event will feature live music, free family activities, arts and craft vendors and more.
Formerly known as the Secret City Festival, the Atomic Fall Festival will be a free, family-friendly event to celebrate the City of Oak Ridge.
“We have the Lavender Festival in June, so we thought we would move the Atomic Fall Fest to the fall and bring it back,” said City of Oak Ridge Communication Specialist Lauren Gray. “In the past, we’ve done the Secret City Festival. When we took a few years off, people kept asking us to bring it back.”
“Families will find a full slate of free, kid-friendly attractions throughout the festival grounds,” Atomic Fall Fest Executive Director Jon Hetrick said. “Children of all ages can enjoy things like bounce houses, crafts, face painting, and splatter painting, while teens and older kids can try the rock-climbing wall, a bungee jump, sports, and more.”
Concerts will be held both nights at 7 p.m., with Lüttge Presents - More Cowbell opening for the Chillbillies on Friday and Brooke Logan opening for Boys Night Out on Saturday. Tickets to the concerts are on sale online.
The festival opens on Friday at 3 p.m. and kicks off with an opening ceremony at 6 p.m. at the Pavilion Stage. The free kids areas will be open Friday from 3 to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
For more information on safety guidelines, sponsorships, and updates, visit their website.
More than 7,700 Knoxville Utility Board and Oak Ridge Electric customers are without power after a swift bout of severe weather passed through the region.The area, including Coalfield, Powell and Pigeon Forge, all experienced severe weather on Sept. 4. A severe thurnderstorm warning was allowed to expire in Southwestern Knox County and North Central Blount County.The National Weather Service issued at least one tornado warning and received reports of roof damage at the Knoxville Alternative School, power lines down in Coalfield...
More than 7,700 Knoxville Utility Board and Oak Ridge Electric customers are without power after a swift bout of severe weather passed through the region.
The area, including Coalfield, Powell and Pigeon Forge, all experienced severe weather on Sept. 4. A severe thurnderstorm warning was allowed to expire in Southwestern Knox County and North Central Blount County.
The National Weather Service issued at least one tornado warning and received reports of roof damage at the Knoxville Alternative School, power lines down in Coalfield, and downed trees throughout the region.
Here's what you need to know.
The National Weather Service forecasts the region will see scattered and potentially severe thunderstorms this afternoon. All of East Tennessee has a "marginal risk" for severe weather.
The primary threat is wind, which the National Weather Service says may gust up to 60 miles per hour. The probability of widespread hazardous weather is low.
Small hail is possible, according to the National Weather Service.
This wet weather is driven by a cold front moving through, according to the forecast discussion. Expect more rain to fall the afternoon of Sept. 6 as a second cold front passes through.
Sept. 5 is expected to be dry between the two systems.
There was a slew of severe weather that passed through Knoxville on Sept. 4. There were multiple severe thunderstorm warnings across the region.
There was a tornado warning in effect for Oak Ridge, Oliver Springs and Coalfield until 1:30 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. Some damage, including downed power lines, has been reported to the National Weather Service in Coalfield, however, forecasters are unsure if the damage is a result of a possible tornado.
Thunderstorms will most likely come through the region between 3-10 p.m. Sept. 4, according to the National Weather Service.
Precipitation amounts could be less than a tenth of an inch, according to the National Weather Service. Higher amounts are possible in thunderstorms.
Damaging winds, or straight-line winds, can be dangerous. These fast winds can uproot trees or power lines, as well as damage buildings and roofs.
Allison Kiehl covers trending and breaking news from Knoxville for the Tennessee Connect Team. Email: [email protected]
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Oklo, a private nuclear firm with strong ties to the artificial intelligence industry, plans to build a nuclear fuel recycling facility in Oak Ridge.The company’s local investment should total $1.68 billion and create about 800 jobs. The news broke Sept. 4 in what was the largest job creation announcement in Roane County history, County Executive Wade Creswell said.Once it’s built, the facility will turn nuclear waste into fuel for its next-gen reactors. It will be the United States’ first privately funded nuc...
Oklo, a private nuclear firm with strong ties to the artificial intelligence industry, plans to build a nuclear fuel recycling facility in Oak Ridge.
The company’s local investment should total $1.68 billion and create about 800 jobs. The news broke Sept. 4 in what was the largest job creation announcement in Roane County history, County Executive Wade Creswell said.
Once it’s built, the facility will turn nuclear waste into fuel for its next-gen reactors. It will be the United States’ first privately funded nuclear fuel recycling facility, according to a press release from the Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development.
“Oklo’s recognition of our strong business climate, reliable infrastructure and skilled workforce prove that Tennessee is ready to continue growing into the top state for nuclear energy,” Gov. Bill Lee said in a news release. “We’re proud to partner with Oklo to continue pushing our state toward the future, increasing America’s energy independence and creating greater opportunity for all Tennesseans.”
The company’s plans went public with an announcement at the Wilcox Interpretive Center in Oak Ridge’s Heritage Center, close to the 247-acre site selected for the facility. Oklo joins more than a hundred other private nuclear firms making a home in Oak Ridge amid what industry experts have called a nuclear renaissance.
The company, which builds what it calls fission “powerhouses,” or small nuclear reactors, went public in May 2024. It’s been a busy year, and the California-based company is active across the United States.
Last year, Oklo got the U.S. Department of Energy’s sign-off on a plan for a reactor in Idaho. And earlier this week, the city of Oak Ridge’s industrial development board agreed to begin conversations about transferring land to Oklo, referred to in public documents as “Project Glow."
Oklo also recently increased its Aurora microreactors’ capacity to a level needed to supply power to energy-hungry data centers popping up across the U.S. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission rejected its first application for a small reactor, citing lack of information about design, but it left the door open for the company to try again.
And in the past year, the company has likewise inked deals with data center firms including Switch and Equinix.
The company has a strong tie to a major artificial intelligence booster; OpenAI founder Sam Altman has supported the company for years and chaired its board of directors for a decade before stepping down earlier this year.
As power needs spike after decades of flat demand, the public sector also has taken some interest in Oklo. The U.S. Department of Energy in August picked Oklo and its subsidiary, Atomic Alchemy, to complete three test reactor pilot projects as the Trump administration presses power providers and regulators to “unleash nuclear energy.”
The Tennessee Valley Authority will generate electricity for the plant. The utility, the U.S.’ largest public power provider, also will work with Oklo on fuel recycling capability.
Mariah Franklin is a growth and development reporter focused on technology and energy. Email [email protected].
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