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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 Wilmington, NC

Home Care Wilmington, NC

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

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Bellamy Mansion Museum 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 Wilmington, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Wilmington, NC

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The Always Best Care Difference

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

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

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

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TESTIMONIALS

“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had to downsize due to an unexpected illness and Always Best Care (ABC) stepped in to make this possible. Kind, compassion, pleasant, friendly, joyful and talented professionals comprise those providing this service. I literally couldn’t have lived for at my assisted living since I had so many hospital visits each week. I didn’t want to go alone to these appointments and this freed my family from needless distress and worry about my wellbeing when they couldn’t be there. I highly recommend ABC since they are an essential component providing excellent and reliable support.”

Betty H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in law transition into her new home after moving to Raleigh from Winston Salem. She has dialysis 3x a week and they have worked so hard to coordinate a schedule to make sure everything runs smoothly. Sherry continues to amaze me in how she is able to help figure out schedules and provide customer services in a kind and professional manner. We will continue to look to this wonderful service provider as her needs change and feel blessed to have them on site at Atri”

Betty T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with. He was sincerely concerned about my mom and our family. He is an excellent listener and introduced me to Paige who is equally wonderful. Together they found a great place for my mother in a very short time. Paige was always available to speak on the phone and addressed my questions or concerns. I would recommend using this service for your loved one. Laura B of Raleigh”

Laura B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed, and things changed constantly. My dad has a chance to live the rest of his life with dignity and my mom has a chance to live a fuller life because of the help we got from Kathryn and this team. They have a great network and valuable knowledge but what observed that makes them invaluable is that they care...and when you are on this situation I found that this is the quality that matters the most. Cannot thank them enough.”

Bull H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”

Kim M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care goes above and beyond to provide great care for you or your loved ones. Always Best Care makes it possible to stay in home, and stay as independent as possible. ABC staff are there to assist in keeping you or your loved ones safe, healthy and happy. If you are looking for top quality care, you have found the right place!”

Sabrina O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm a beginner with the company. You must be patient when applying and beautiful things will unfold for you. This company has great position offers. Come check them out for yourself! ????”

Casual T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We are very satisfied with his service and professionalism. He took his time and our requirements and found the perfect place. Highly recommend him and Always Best Care!”

Charles K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many options it was confusing for me! Shawn and his team sent me several places to review and then accompanied me to visit independent living facilities. I appreciate the resources and information provided. Shawn, thank you for being focused on our family's needs and sharing your expertise. Your compassion and patience is so very appreciated!”

Joanne S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Watching your parents age is an emotional experience. My mother has suffered from emphysema since the early 2000s and was diagnosed with dementia in 2018. We've worked with many companies to provide care for her and companionship. Since 2020, as my mother has significantly declined, we've had to make the decision to move her into a facility. For the past three years, Always Best, and more specifically Nancy Newcomer, has provided consistent and quality care for our family. Nancy is always on time, caring, and reliable. We've experienced companies with high turnover and feel blessed to have had Nancy's support for three years. She doesn’t do this solely for a paycheck but also checks on my dad on her days off and genuinely cares. I'd highly recommend this company to help care for your aging loved ones.”

Alison B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Other Navigation through the process of finding a Memory Care Facility for my husband. The Owner. Met with my daughter and me. We included my husband. Right away we could hear see and feel this man's compassionate heart. He cared for his own aging family members and can relate. He personally called to check in with us despite the fact that we needed a facility and not home care. Taking it one step further he went on tours with us and we discussed pros and cons without his bias of one over another. Once our loved one was placed this gentleman continued advising at our initiation of calls. He never failed to call back. Highly recommend this man.”

Sharon
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TESTIMONIALS

“Phenomenal services providing peace of mind during difficult times when your elderly loved ones need you the most. Highly recommend!”

Stephanie B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I could not be happier with this service. I schedule care in 15 minute or 30 minute visits for 6 visits a day. They make sure that my 96 year old mother takes her meds, walks to meals, they deliver her meals when she is too tired to walk, they water her plants, bathe her, they will help in anyway to provide the best care. Shawn Cothran, the owner, made a personal visit to her room to make sure she had all that she needs. The caregivers; Vera, Jackie, Toni, Elizabeth and many others could not be better. I highly recommend this service.”

Sandra D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I Love Always Best Care, we have an amazing team and I am lucky to be surrounded by such caring hearts.”

Shawn C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider Staff helped guide and navigate options for my mother. We found a new home for her and the extra attention she is now receiving has given both the family and her comfort and peace of mind. It is a challenging transition and the help was invaluable. Many thanks!”

Jody J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider ABC caregivers took care of my 93 yr old father from when he came out of the hospital until he passed away 8 months later. The nurse was very fast and efficient and met us at his residence when we arrived from the hospital. Many caregivers were so sweet and careful with him and were helpful to my mother as well. He would be happy to see their smiling faces. They were also very accommodating for schedule and other changes. I would highly recommend them!”

LdaviesNC
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC caregivers took care of my 93 yr old father from when he came out of the hospital until he passed away 8 months later. The nurse was very fast and efficient and met us at his residence when we arrived from the hospital. Many caregivers were so sweet and careful with him and were helpful to my mother as well. He would be happy to see their smiling faces. They were also very accommodating for schedule and other changes. I would highly recommend them!”

Lisa D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We recently had to move my Dad from one senior care center to another. It was wonderful to have Paige from Always Best Care make all the appointments and show us different options. She knew all the ins & outs, positives & negatives and was such a huge help in finding him a new place to live! I highly recommend this service to anyone in need of finding a place for their loved one.”

Erin T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Oh my goodness! I was at the very bottom of my rope with no where to turn. Almost overnight, my mom went from being totally independent to needing assisted living, and I didn't know where or how to even start. The hospital was breathing down my neck to get her out of there, and I had nowhere to take her. I couldn't provide the care she needed at home. Then a friend sent me a copy of Shawn Cothran's business card. She said he could help. Shawn called me when I was at my lowest point. He offered me hope with the possibility of placement the same day or next for my mom. By that afternoon, we had signed a contract and placed a bed in mom's new home. The next day, she moved in to a very nice, beautiful and caring community. I will be forever grateful to Always Best Care Senior Services and Shawn!!”

Michele W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I started with Always Best Care in October of 2018 and they have been fabulous with their flexibility. I have been able to make my own schedule to accommodate other things in my life.”

cassidy O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve been employed by Always Best Care Senior Services as a caregiver for almost four years. I’ve been impressed by their professional, ethical and caring work environment, as well as the continuing training and support given to employees. As a caregiver it has been a rewarding experience to lovingly provide for the physical and emotional needs of our clients.”

Pat M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a great place to work . The management team goes beyond there duties.They care a lot about their clients and their workers . If you are looking for a good place to work with flexible schedule I would recommend you ABC care .”

Ndeye N.
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“A good company that cares for both employees and clients.”

katherine V.
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“I’ve been working with ABC for over two years now and I’ve enjoyed the experience with My Boss ,Co-workers and clients. We’re all just a BIg family..”

Tammy F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by far the best place I've worked our boss and staff are everything.????????????????????????????????????????????????????”

Angela K.

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

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

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

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

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

 Senior Care Wilmington, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Wilmington, NC

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

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

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

Common personal care services include assistance with:

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

Respite Care Wilmington, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

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

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Greenfield 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 Wilmington, NC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local manna or visit Wilmington Light Infantry Building / John A. Taylor 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 Wilmington, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Wilmington, NC

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

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

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Elderly Care Wilmington, NC

Affordable Care

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

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

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

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

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

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Wilmington, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

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

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

Assisted Living Referral Services

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

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


Respite Care Wilmington, NC

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • The Commons At Brightmore of Wilmington
  • Brookdale Wilmington
  • SeniorLife Assisted Living & Senior Care Wilmington NC
  • New Hanover House
  • Morningside of Wilmington
  • Coastal Cove of Wilmington
Home Care Wilmington, NC

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

 In-Home Care Wilmington, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

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

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

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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

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

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

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

 Elderly Care Wilmington, NC

Latest News in Wilmington, NC

13 horror movies filmed in NC that have hex appeal (and to watch around Halloween)

‘Tis the season for scary movies and if you’re planning to watch any haunting horror films, you may recognize a few North Carolina spots on screen.The state has been a popular destination for dozens of films for decades, including several thrillers and cult classics.So if you want to set the scene for a scary movie night with hometown ties ahead of Halloween, here’s a list of popular films compiled by the ...

‘Tis the season for scary movies and if you’re planning to watch any haunting horror films, you may recognize a few North Carolina spots on screen.

The state has been a popular destination for dozens of films for decades, including several thrillers and cult classics.

So if you want to set the scene for a scary movie night with hometown ties ahead of Halloween, here’s a list of popular films compiled by the state’s travel and tourism website, VisitNC, that you want want to check out:

Filming locations in NC: Asheville, Boone, Bryson City, Foscoe

Starring: Katherine Sigismund, Corey Eid, Riley Polanski

Synopsis: “A vacationing family encounters an alien threat in this thriller based on the real-life Brown Mountain Lights phenomenon in North Carolina.”

How to watch: Stream on Roku Channel, Tubi and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Mocksville, Mount Airy and Winston-Salem

Starring: Jordan Ladd, Rider Strong, James DeBello

Synopsis: “Five college graduates rent a cabin in the woods and begin to fall victim to a horrifying flesh-eating virus, which attracts the unwanted attention of the homicidal locals.”

How to watch: Stream on AMC+ and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Wilmington

Starring: Rider Strong, Noah Segan, Alexi Wasser

Synopsis: “A high school prom faces a deadly threat: a flesh-eating virus that spreads via a popular brand of bottled water.”

How to watch: Stream on Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Wilmington

Starring: Drew Barrymore, James Woods, Alan King

Synopsis: “A stray cat is the linking element of three tales of suspense and horror.”

How to watch: Stream on Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Currie, Wilmington

Starring: Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Ron Livingston

Synopsis: “Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren work to help a family terrorized by a dark presence in their farmhouse.”

How to watch: Stream on Max and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Wadesboro, Wilmington

Starring: Bruce Campbell, Sarah Berry, Dan Hicks

Synopsis: “Ash Williams, the lone survivor of an earlier onslaught of flesh-possessing spirits, holes up in a cabin with a group of strangers while the demons continue their attack.”

How to watch: Stream on AMC+, Plex, Pluto TV, MovieSphere and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Wilmington

Starring: Jamie Lee Curtis, Judy Greer, Andi Matichak

Synopsis: “Surviving victims of Michael Myers form a vigilante mob and vow to end his reign of terror.”

How to watch: Stream on Bravo Now, E!Now, NBC, Peacock, Syfy Now, Telemundo Now and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Asheville

Starring: Anthony Hopkins, Julianne Moore, Gary Oldman

Synopsis: “Living in exile, Dr. Hannibal Lecter tries to reconnect with now disgraced F.B.I. Agent Clarice Starling, and finds himself a target of revenge from a powerful victim.”

How to watch: Stream on Prime Video and Roku Channel.

Filming locations in NC: Hendersonville

Starring: Rose Leslie, Harry Treadaway, Ben Huber

Synopsis: “A newlywed couple finds their lake-country honeymoon descend into chaos after Paul finds Bea wandering and disoriented in the middle of the night.”

How to watch: Stream on Peacock, Roku Channel, Tubi and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Durham, Southport

Starring: Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Anne Heche

Synopsis: “Four young friends bound by a tragic accident are reunited when they find themselves being stalked by a hook-wielding maniac in their small seaside town.”

How to watch: Stream on AMC+, Peacock, Tubi and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Wilmington

Starring: Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, David Arquette

Synopsis: “25 years after a streak of brutal murders shocked the quiet town of Woodsboro, Calif., a new killer dons the Ghostface mask and begins targeting a group of teenagers to resurrect secrets from the town’s deadly past.”

How to watch: Stream on Netflix, Paramount+ and Prime Video.

Filming locations in NC: Burgaw, Wilmington

Starring: Gary Busey, Everette McGill, Corey Haim

Synopsis: “In a small town, brutal killings start to plague the close knit community. Marty Coslaw, a paraplegic boy, is convinced the murders are the doings of a werewolf.”

How to watch: Stream on AMC+, Paramount+ and Prime Video.

In addition to the the 12 movies mentioned above, we figured we’d make it 13 with this horror film that was filmed in Charlotte:

Filming locations in NC: Charlotte, Cramerton

Starring: Justin Long, Michael Parks, Haley Joel Osment

Synopsis: “A brash and arrogant podcaster gets more than he bargained for when he travels to Canada to interview a mysterious recluse ... who has a rather disturbing fondness for walruses.”

How to watch: Stream on Prime Video.

The Charlotte Observer

Chyna Blackmon is a service journalism reporter for The Charlotte Observer. A native of the Carolinas, she grew up in Columbia, SC, and graduated from Queens University of Charlotte. She’s also worked in local television news in Charlotte, NC, and Richmond, VA.

Wilmington's Artemis Immersive wins NC Tech award for groundbreaking 3D healthcare app

The VoxScan app allows users to interact with MRI and CT scans on everyday devices, aiming to improve patient outcomes and healthcare accessibility.Chuck Hester, WRAL Techwire contributorThe North Carolina Technology Association has announced the winners in the Top Tech Startups to Watch category, selecting 10 companies to be celebrated at the NC Tech Awards on Dec. 3 in Raleigh. Over the next several weeks, WRAL Techwire will be profiling the winners.Artemis Immersive: Clear view improves doctor-patient communic...

The VoxScan app allows users to interact with MRI and CT scans on everyday devices, aiming to improve patient outcomes and healthcare accessibility.

Chuck Hester, WRAL Techwire contributor

The North Carolina Technology Association has announced the winners in the Top Tech Startups to Watch category, selecting 10 companies to be celebrated at the NC Tech Awards on Dec. 3 in Raleigh. Over the next several weeks, WRAL Techwire will be profiling the winners.

Artemis Immersive: Clear view improves doctor-patient communication

The Wilmington-based firm provides spatial medtech solutions, and its VoxScan App significantly improves the interactions between and among patients and healthcare providers

The simple and intuitive app allows patients and healthcare providers a way to visualize and interact with MRI or CT scans in 3D on everyday devices.

The startup, founded in April of 2023, is self-funded. All $800,000 came from the founders and friends and family. Founder Adam Isley was previously in executive positions with IQVIA and GlaxoSmithKline for 16 years.

“Our driving force is a deep commitment to patient care. We believe in a patient-centered healthcare model, where the needs of patients take precedence over financial performance," said Isley. “In contrast to the many healthcare organizations prioritizing profits over patients, we are dedicated to improving patient outcomes, satisfaction, and access to care, recognizing that these are the foundation of healthier lives.”

As a corporate executive, Isley had little knowledge of the Wilmington startup ecosystem. He credits Jim Roberts of The Network for Entrepreneurs in Wilmington for his support. “Jim Roberts repeatedly went out of his way to make sure we had the support and networking connections we needed and is a big reason we have been able to get this far,” said Isley.

His advice to startups: “Don't go at it alone in the Wilmington area, make sure to leverage your entrepreneurship network with Jim and his team.”

Artemis Immersive is working on several new initiatives, including a Wilmington Experience Lab opening in downtown Wilmington in Q2 of 2025. It will act as the company’s new headquarters, and feature multiple configurations of their technology, software and wellness breakthroughs, allowing people to explore all new ways to engage with their health and wellness.

“At this new facility we will not only test and refine our applications,” Isley said. "[We will] give people the opportunity to experience the future of healthcare and allow them to shape it to their desires as we incorporate their feedback into new technologies and applications.”

© 2024 Copyright Capitol Broadcasting Company

National group to set up 'DJs at the Polls' in Wilmington to entertain, drive turnout

If you plan on voting in the Wilmington area Nov. 5, casting your ballot might come with a sweet soundtrack.DJs at the Polls, a national, non-partisan get-out-the-vote group, said it will have paid, professional DJs spinning tunes outside of about 85 polling places in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties on Election Day.Chris Suggs, a state project manager in North Carolina for DJs at the Polls, said the group pl...

If you plan on voting in the Wilmington area Nov. 5, casting your ballot might come with a sweet soundtrack.

DJs at the Polls, a national, non-partisan get-out-the-vote group, said it will have paid, professional DJs spinning tunes outside of about 85 polling places in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties on Election Day.

Chris Suggs, a state project manager in North Carolina for DJs at the Polls, said the group plans to have DJs at 1,365 voting sites around the state.

It will be the group's first time placing DJs at polling sites in the Wilmington area. Suggs said DJs at the Polls ran a "pilot project" in North Carolina in 2022 and 2023, but that "the level of coordination is definitely new this year. This is the first year we've reached this level of engagement."

The idea, Suggs said, "is to make election day a fun and enjoyable event," thereby increasing voter participation, which is the group's primary goal.

"We don't care how people vote," Suggs said. "We just want them to get out and vote."

As for the polling sites where DJs at the Polls will be set up, "Some are random," Suggs said, while other are picked because the precincts have high numbers of voters the group targets. Suggs said these include young voters, Black and brown communities, and what Suggs called "low-propensity voters" who vote sometimes but not always.

Suggs said some voters in the Wilmington area will be getting postcards letting them know a DJ will be at their polling site.

According to the DJs at the Polls website, the group's founder, Anton Moore of Philadelphia, started placing DJs at polling locations throughout Pennsylvania in 2008. Moore "helped design and implement DJs 4 Obama" in 2012, and later started DJs at the Polls as a non-partisan group.

The group's website said it "was founded on the belief that voting is something to be celebrated. It was expanded on evidence that having DJs play polling places measurably increases voter turnout."

The group cites a "2022 randomized control trial in Philadelphia at polling sites where our DJs performed." At those sites, "voter turnout increased 3%" over previous years. DJs at the Polls said it targets "densely populated urban areas with large numbers of underrepresented voters."

Nancy Friedman, deputy director of DJs at the Polls, said the group will have DJs outside some seven dozen polling places in New Hanover, Brunswick and Pender counties, including the Career Readiness Academy at Mosely PLC in Wilmington, Lincoln Elementary School in Leland, and North Topsail Elementary School in Hampstead.

A full list of participating DJs in the Wilmington area wasn't immediately provided to the StarNews.

Friedman said "we haven't yet completed the matching process of DJs to locations, but we will have all of that completed by the end of the week."

Wilmington DJ James Tritten of Fort Lowell Records said he will be spinning on Election Day, though he said he hasn't yet been told where.

Another Wilmington DJ you might see at the polls is Lingam James, who DJs under the handle Infinite Spins. You can catch him spinning vinyl every Wednesday evening at Mad Mole Brewing off Oleander Drive as well as at other locations, including Satellite, Palate, and various spots in the Cargo District.

James said that DJs at the Polls reached out to him about participating, and that it was something he wanted to do because "it would open me up to another audience, and hopefully improve the mood" at the polls, he said. "Voting is something we're tasked with as Americans, so I'm glad I can do my part to hopefully make it a more pleasant experience."

James said he already cast his vote early, and that "it was a little tense in line. This will definitely help cut the tension."

If you see Infinite Spins at your polling place, he said you can expect to hear "a lot of funk, soul, disco, jazz, hip-hop, just some upbeat stuff that anyone can chill to." He said he also imports a lot of rare vinyl records into his digital set-up, and looks forward to playing those as well.

According to DJs at the Polls, DJs are paid $500 per four-hour set. Sites will host between one and three four-hour DJ sets, with some DJs performing multiple sets.

Suggs said "we are very intentional about the DJs we recruit." The group targets professional DJs who gig regularly. Some might work on local radio while others are what Suggs called "celebrity DJs."

The DJs "know their communities best," Suggs said, including what kind of music their communities want to hear. The group just asks that they play "family friendly" music that is "respectful" to the polling place, which might be at a school or church.

Suggs said DJs at the Polls is funded by many different private donors and foundations, including Focus for Democracy, a nonprofit, non-partisan civic engagement group that its website says is "dedicated to empowering donors to make the most impactful contributions possible to strengthen democracy."

So far, the group will be placing DJs in "13 states and counting," Suggs said.

Some states, like Georgia, have passed laws restricting activity near polling sites. In that state, for example, it's illegal to even give food or water to people waiting in line to vote.

In North Carolina, Suggs said, "we've been very well-received" by everyone from politicians to community organizers and "we haven't run into any issues at all" with local boards of elections.

"They realize this is a non-partisan activity," he said. "In my work of doing this, there are always critics, but we've not run into any opposition that would make us stop what we're doing."

Restaurant in downtown Wilmington to close Dec. 31

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - Bourbon Street in downtown Wilmington announced they will be closing their doors effective as of Dec. 31, 2024.According to a post on their Facebook page, the restaurant was not made aware that their building was up for sale and they were not given the first right of refusal.They release the following statement:“It is with deep regret that we announce the closure of our business, effective December 31, 2024. Despite numerous efforts to sustain our operations and ongoing rejections from ...

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - Bourbon Street in downtown Wilmington announced they will be closing their doors effective as of Dec. 31, 2024.

According to a post on their Facebook page, the restaurant was not made aware that their building was up for sale and they were not given the first right of refusal.

They release the following statement:

“It is with deep regret that we announce the closure of our business, effective December 31, 2024. Despite numerous efforts to sustain our operations and ongoing rejections from the new ownership, we must confirm the accuracy of this news.

“To provide some context, we were never made aware that the building was up for sale, nor were we given the first right of refusal; we only learned of the sale after it had already occurred. Unfortunately, we were not afforded the opportunity to continue our presence in this location. We proposed several options to the new owners to extend our tenure by one more year, allowing us time to regroup and explore new possibilities elsewhere, but our requests were consistently denied.

“We recognize the business dynamics and growth that Wilmington is experiencing—an evolution that is both inevitable and beneficial. This city, which we have cherished since we opened our doors in 2013, has continued to flourish. However, we believe there are ethical considerations that should accompany such growth. Regrettably, we have not felt these principles were upheld throughout the process that unfolded without our knowledge.

“This location has become a beloved fixture in downtown Wilmington, drawing both visitors and local residents alike. Our journey of bringing a taste of the Big Easy to Wilmington has been truly remarkable, allowing us to connect with wonderful people and an incredibly talented group of musicians. We have cherished every moment!

“As we approach the end of the year, we are committed to making the most of our remaining time. We have an exciting lineup of talented bands scheduled to perform until December 31, 2024, and we will continue to provide the exceptional service, delicious food, drinks, and the vibrant atmosphere that our patrons have come to love.

“We are actively searching for a new location that aligns with our needs and financial viability, and we will keep you updated on any developments.

Thank you for your support, Wilmington; we truly appreciate you!”

Copyright 2024 WECT. All rights reserved.

Will the Wilmington area see snow? Here's the Farmer's Almanac's winter predictions.

The fall season in Southeastern North Carolina has had some warmer days, but cooler temperatures have appeared lately, which means it might be time to break out your winter wear soon.While winter doesn't begin until late December, here's what to know about The Old Farmer’s Almanac winter solstice, precipitation and snow.When is the winter solstice?The winter solstice, which marks the first day of winter, will begin at 4:21 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21. Winter solstice marks the day when the sun's apparent movement s...

The fall season in Southeastern North Carolina has had some warmer days, but cooler temperatures have appeared lately, which means it might be time to break out your winter wear soon.

While winter doesn't begin until late December, here's what to know about The Old Farmer’s Almanac winter solstice, precipitation and snow.

When is the winter solstice?

The winter solstice, which marks the first day of winter, will begin at 4:21 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 21. Winter solstice marks the day when the sun's apparent movement stops and reverses direction or stands still. The days are shorter and nights longer during the winter solstice.

When will it get cold in North Carolina?

The Farmer's Almanac 2024-2025 Winter Outlook predicts cool temperatures and isolated showers from Dec. 19-Jan. 1, with showers from Dec. 24–27 and blustery cold winds from Dec. 28–31. The Almanac predicts storms from Jan. 1-3, 2025. The Almanac also predicts that the coldest outbreak of the season will occur during the final week of January into the beginning of February.

Accuweather's month-long forecast for December in Wilmington shows high temperatures beginning and staying in the low to mid 60s from Dec. 21-27 and in the low 50s from Dec. 28-31. Lows mostly in the mid 40s from Dec. 21-25 and dropping in the low 30s toward the end of the month, but Dec. 31 lows will climb back up to 41 degrees.

The last time Wilmington had a white Christmas was in 1989, when 15 inches of snow fell 36 hours before Dec. 25.

Winter weather:Dreaming of a white Christmas? Then Wilmington might not be your place for the holidays

How much rain/snow will North Carolina see this winter?

The Almanac is predicting Southeastern North Carolina will be wet and cold with some snow. The best chance of snow would come in late January through February. Also, the Almanac predicts North Carolina could see some scattered wet snow or rain showers between Feb. 8–11.

The Almanac's predictions are based on the expected development of a La Nin?a weather pattern, which refers to a periodic cooling of the ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. The Almanac claims to be 80% accurate.

What is The Old Farmer’s Almanac?

The Old Farmer’s Almanac has been around for more than 225 years. It is an almanac containing weather forecasts, planting charts, astronomical data, recipes, and articles. An almanac is an annual calendar containing important dates and statistical information such as astronomical data and tide tables.

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