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

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

Personal Care Consultation

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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve been a nurse for over 40 years, and I am currently a nursing professor. When my mom was recently in the hospital, I knew it would not be possible for her to be completely on her own right away. She loves where she resides and enjoys all of the activities that are offered. My goal was to get her back into her apartment as soon as possible with the support she needed to increase her strength and return to her prior level of wellness she had before she went into the hospital. She was used to walking a couple miles a day. When I reached out to ABC I made it clear that my mom would need somebody who would be willing to walk with her in the morning, and in the evening enabling her to get back to her baseline. I would like to complement all of the staff at ABC who provided my mom such wonderful support after two weeks she returned to her baseline and remained in her apartment. She really enjoyed all of the staff that were with her , they were professional they encouraged her to walk, drink fluids, eat and were instrumental in assisting her to reach her prior level of independence. I would strongly recommend ABC to anybody who is in need of support for their loved one.”

Robin Y.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Mom’s care needs have been progressing over the past month - increased difficulty standing. walking, decreased appetite, increased incontinence. (Part of the expected declining process per her Dr.) Tara has been wonderful in adapting to Mom’s changing needs as they develop and a very helpful partner in troubleshooting. brainstorming how to adapt to best support Mom. It’s also been helpful in my regular communication with Mom’s Dr, to let her know in detail what has come up and how we have approached. Thank you (again) for your talented staff!”

Jeremy H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Outstanding personal service from this company. All of the caregivers were personable and provided outstanding care to our aunt. I would highly recommend them to anyone who has an elder family member in need. Also, the staff that helped to set up their services was outstanding as well. They made the decisions easy to understand with no hidden agenda. Thank you again to "ABC!"”

KEVIN M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“You can't go wrong with this crew. Extremely patient and caring.”

Daniel S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Caring for family can be difficult and challenging at times. It's so nice to know that Always Best Care Senior Services is there to help!”

Cathy K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Taylor, John, and Kristine and their crew are the best. They are patient, understanding, and a joy to work with.”

Daniel S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sabina always has a pleasant, caring, and respectful attitude. I feel she treats me as she would as her own mother. She treats me the way she would like to be treated. We are a good “team” together.”

Tracy H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Diana has a total commitment of compassion, empathy, and respect for myself and my family. My daughters feel she is truly a tremendous caregiver. They know I am in good hands. She acknowledges with commitment of my physical, emotional, and practical needs, my quality of life has excelled due to Diana’s help. I look forward to her presence everyday her attitude is exceptional, Diana comes to work daily with a smile on her face. She enters the front door, singing softly ready to work. She has never taken a day off, I have had many caregivers, but Diana is truly the best!”

Anne H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Tina has been with us since the start, caring for my mom. Tina has nothing but my mom’s best interest at heart. She continues to go above and beyond to care for my mom, and ensure anyone else who may be there also understands my mom’s needs. Tina has even gone so far to rearrange her schedule or give up her free time to stay with my mom to avoid her having someone that doesn’t know her. I can see that she genuinely cares for my mom, and treats her as if she was her own family member. That also goes both ways, my mom lights up when she sees Tina. We consider Tina part of our family.”

David L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care helped our family get through a very difficult time with my mother's care. Kristine and Taylor are a pleasure to work with. They are very knowledgable and had the answers to all our questions. They were able to help with all aspects of the care we needed. I highly recommend them.”

John S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Kristine and John are extremely caring and compassionate about helping their client's and family and making sure they receive the best care available. Highly recommended!”

Greg G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We needed some home care services for Dad who has dementia, and we made the right decision to trust ABC Senior Services for this support. Dad was lined up with a caregiver who was attentive and helpful, and she and Dad really hit it off. The management and administrative staff from ABC were also very effective and professional. You'll make a good decision to go with ABC Senior Services...”

Liam M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I approached Kristine regarding care for my elderly father. Even though he was outside her service area, she helped to find resources for us. Her commitment to providing outstanding care is only surpassed by her desire to help others. Thank you Kristine!”

Matt B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have known Kristine Lajeunesse for many years now through business networking and she and her Team at Always Best Care are very caring and professional and exactly who you would want on your side if you have a loved one who needs help!”

Ann B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The client care at Always Best Care Senior Service is outstanding”

Kimberly O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Rosemary has many great qualities. She is a hardworker, sensitive, has a giving nature and has an immense desire to help my father. Reliability is vital trait in Rosemary. When my father was in the hospital and came home she immediately wanted to be by his side. My father has come to rely and depend on Rosemary. She is always on time whether it is giving medication or administering food and often encourages my father and helps my father maintain his dignity”

Denise D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides caregivers to our building on a regular basis when we are short staffed. Due to our licensing, we can only have CNAs on the floor and Always Best Care has provided excellent CNAs every time we need some extra help. All of their CNAs have been helpful, willing to go above and beyond for our residents and we always have great responses from our own CNAs and supervisory staff. I am so thankful to Michelle and Wilda who will always staff a shift that I need, even if I call 30 minutes before the shift starts. You’ve been such a huge help!”

Kaytee S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have known John and Kristine Lajeunesse for almost 20 years and when my dad needed care following a diagnosis of dementia, I knew there wouldn’t be anyone better to call than them. The caregivers that have worked with my dad have been wonderful. They are true saints to my family, allowing us the knowledge that Dad is okay to stay at home. They have navigated all of the changes in his cognitive state with grace and kept my father’s dignity in place. He was always a very active man and the caregivers have managed to keep him active, even as his health declines.”

Belinda F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care helped me to get care lined up for my uncle, after I received their information from a close friend of mine that also used their agency. My uncle was a very proud man and did not want help from anyone, including family. Taylor met with me and spent time getting to know the ins and outs of my uncle’s care as well as his personality. She asked about his background so that they could look for a caregiver with similar interests. Although he took a turn for the worse rather quickly, the short time care was provided was wonderful. Thank you for your help and compassion.”

Karel O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My dad’s caregiver is great. He is a man of few words, but she is able to get him talking about all aspects and experiences of his life. They go out regularly and she encourages my dad to participate in the activities put on by the community he lives in. They run errands, go out for meals, or go for a drive just to get a change of scenery. I was nervous at first about how my dad would take having a caregiver come in to help him, but he seems so happy and has great things to talk about after his time spent with his caregiver.”

Martin F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you, Kristine - I am very appreciative of the professional manner with which you and your organization operates. From the initial phone and in-person conversations with Taylor, to the ongoing support of my mother's care - it's been thorough, timely and well managed. I am also struck by how the home-health employees conduct themselves. They are reliable/responsive *and* responsible, and making every effort to work through the challenges day to day with my mother. Thanks for the great job you and your organization are doing. It means a lot to me, especially during this trying time! Best Regards”

Anna T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I wanted to take a moment to thank you and your staff for all of your hard work and dedication to their clients. When my parents finally realized they needed help in their home, I chose ABC as the company I felt would be the best fit. Yes, we have had some ups and down, but when you paired Leah with my parents, it was truly a blessing. My parents love her. She genuinely cares for them and they speak highly of her work ethic. As my mom says, “she is too good to be true”. I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciate your working with me to find the right fit. Well on our end, Leah fits like a glove and I hope she feels the same. She is a special person so I wanted to acknowledge her hard work and dedication to my parents. It makes me feel more at ease knowing there is someone coming to the home to properly care for them. Again I want to thank you all and encourage you to keep up the good work.”

Craig F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My family provides the care to my mother 24/7, we called Always Best Care to provide respite care to my mom while we took some time to ourselves for a weekend. Mom’s caregiver, Gloria, was great and she had the perfect disposition to work with my mom. She was attentive and kept mom well fed and engaged during the time we were away. We would definitely call Always Best Care again when we need some time away.”

Brenda
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TESTIMONIALS

“The caregiver that helped my husband and I were so kind to us both, especially to my husband while I spent some time in the hospital and rehab. Our caregiver brought my husband to see me every day while I was at the hospital and at rehab, I knew he was in excellent hands and I could focus on getting stronger again.”

Heather R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“i really like my caregiver, Victor very much. Victor is a very patient and observant aide who knows when I need his help. I knew from the first day meeting him that we would get along very well.”

Johnson L.
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TESTIMONIALS

““I want to give a huge thank you for the care that Always Best Care provided over the last year and a half. They started out assisting just my dad since he was wheelchair bound and then began providing care to my mom as well who had advanced dementia. The two ladies that helped them both did an amazing job and gave me the confidence that they were being well cared for since I live on the other side of the country. Up to my dad’s passing, his caregivers were there for him to provide comfort and companionship while managing my mom’s emotions as well during the difficult time my dad had. Being a nurse myself and in the healthcare field for a while, I had high expectations which were exceeded by the caregivers and office staff of Always Best Care.”

harry B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Both of Mom’s caregivers are exceptional. They are always professional, calm and extremely patient with my mom. They know how to keep her calm and to manage her anxiety. My whole family is very grateful, knowing that Mom is getting really competent care, great meals and friendly companionship. Thank you.”

Kathleen F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My husband had care from Always Best Care until he passed away. Thankfully he is on his "next journey" and finally pain free, while he was here with us, his caregiver, Craig, did an amazing job caring for him and was here to help us from our first day of services. Craig always managed to get my husband to share stories from his time in the war that even I had not heard before. It was a great way to get to know more of my husband so his memory can continue with others around him.”

Beth F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am very pleased with the care that Craig gave to my husband. My husband enjoyed having another man to talk to instead of conversation only between him and I. Craig managed to keep him occupied and safe so that I could go and get some time to myself, allowing me peace of mind that my husband was in great hands”

Sonia T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I hired Always Best Care to help my mom who was living with me at home. She was diagnosed with dementia and within 3 months she could hardly do much for herself anymore. I was able to continue working full time while my mom received care from Always Best Care. We had the same caregiver from day 1 and she was absolutely amazing. She kept everyone in the loop with any changes my mom experienced and the regular in person and phone check ins were a great added support to myself and my family. Thank you ABC for all the help and compassion that you showed my mom until her passing.”

Laura
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TESTIMONIALS

“They are very caring and easy to deal with. They work with the family and the patient to see that the patient has what is needed for their care. In all we had a good experience with Best Care.”

Elaine G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our caregiver is the absolute best, you all got lucky finding her.”

Bob G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Anything from Always Best Care is good to have. The care from them has given me my life back. I wasn’t expecting a perfect match on the first caregiver, but Always Best Care did a very good job.”

Claudia B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have been using the services of ABC for almost three years, and I have worked personally with John, Kristine, Taylor, Michelle and Wilda, as well as the many wonderful caregivers who have attended to my mother’s needs with great care and attention. Throughout this time, my mother’s care needs have changed many times, and they have always been very responsive to any requests, including the directives of the hospice nurses that work in concert with all of them. Taylor and Michelle are incredibly diligent about keeping on top of issues that arise day-to-day, and running their questions and concerns by me. I remain a loyal customer to ABC because I feel that my mother is getting really great care, and will continue to see the warm, friendly faces she has come to know and trust today and every day. At 94 yrs old, my mother is quite dependent on the care providers for almost all her needs, and they always show up and make her feel safe and secure.”

Rachel C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“It has been a true pleasure working with you and your organization. You all demonstrate empathy and compassion in caring for frail elderly family members and insure distant families are comforted knowing you are there.”

Steve S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Mom’s caregiver is a part of the family, we absolutely love her!”

Joe L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has done a fantastic job in providing us with at-home care for my step-mother while we prepared for her transition to move permanently to a skilled nursing facility. With their help, she was able to spend a full six months at home before moving. We would not have been able to do it without them. All the caregivers we have met and used have been kind and attentive, frequently going the extra mile, whatever that may be on any given day. The office staff is friendly, empathetic and very diligent in keeping all parties informed of all aspects of day-to-day care. They are knowledgeable, respectful and efficient. I would not hesitate in recommending them to anyone who is looking for help in keeping their loved one at home for as long as possible.”

Sarah C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I appreciate that they always accommodate me and have someone here to drive me, even if I only call them the day before. I’m so glad I was able to find them, because I didn’t know what I was going to do. I just lost my sister and she helped me out a lot.”

Donna .
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TESTIMONIALS

“I appreciate that they always accommodate me and have someone here to drive me, even if I only call them the day before. I’m so glad I was able to find them, because I didn’t know what I was going to do. I just lost my sister and she helped me out a lot.”

Janey B.
 In-Home Care Hebron, CT

How does In-home Senior Care in Hebron, CT work?

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

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

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

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 Senior Care Hebron, CT

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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

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

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

Comfort
Comfort

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them? A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old. With the help of elderly care in Hebron, CT, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Healthy Living
Healthy Living

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors. Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

Independence
Independence

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

Cost and Convenience
Cost and Convenience

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, can be less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

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

Empowers Seniors

Affordable Care Plans

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

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

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

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

Veteran's Benefits
Veteran's Benefits

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

Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-Term Care Insurance

Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.

Private Insurance
Private Insurance

Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.

Life Insurance
Life Insurance

Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.


Respite Care Hebron, CT

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

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers

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

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

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

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

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

 Caregivers Hebron, CT

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

An assessment of your senior loved one

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

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

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

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

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

Latest News in Hebron, CT

A CT Girl Scout Gold Award recipient has a plan to get people outside. And she mapped it.

State Sen. Catherine Osten encouraged Hebron Girl Scout Gold Award recipient Catherine Chester to run for office after finishing her studies at Roger Williams University, where she is headed this fall.Osten said that dedicated, intelligen...

State Sen. Catherine Osten encouraged Hebron Girl Scout Gold Award recipient Catherine Chester to run for office after finishing her studies at Roger Williams University, where she is headed this fall.

Osten said that dedicated, intelligent, driven folks such as Chester are needed in politics.

“If you do so, I will door knock for you, and I’m really good at door knocking,” said Osten.

Chester, who received her Girl Scout Gold Award earlier this summer at a ceremony in Hartford, was honored recently in her home town at the Douglas Library. Among those there to support the RHAM graduate were friends, family members, and state and local politicians – as well as folks who supported Chester throughout the two years it took to complete her project.

“What an amazing lady you are,” said Hebron First Selectman Dan Larson, noting that his own daughter had obtained her Gold Award years ago, and that few people realize how much is involved in obtaining the award.

Chester’s mom, Joanna, who served as her troop leader while she was involved in Scouting, noted that her daughter had received recognition from senators, NASA, the governor, the lieutenant governor, and others for her project.

Chester’s Gold Award project was motivated by a love for the outdoors, and an awareness that not many town residents realize what treasures lie within their own backyards, she said.

“I realized that the open spaces in Hebron weren’t very well-known to the public,” she said.

So Chester set out to change that, and ended up developing a map of all of the open spaces within the town, delineating them as state-owned, town-owned, privately-owned, Farmland Preservation, and institutional. She also marked out five different trails within the Hibbert property, a large, town-owned parcel in the southern portion of Hebron.

In addition, Chester founded the Hebron Trail Rangers, a group dedicated to walking trailed nature preserves and monitoring for fallen trees and other issues.

Chester’s project will have lasting effects and spread beyond its initial boundaries, as noted by Ann Zitkus, the Scout’s primary mentor for the project along with her husband, Frank.

“It’s a ball that keeps on rolling,” said Zitkus, sharing her hope that the project will lead to further ecotourism in Hebron, especially along the Air Line Trail.

Chester thanked her mom, Ann and Frank Zitkus, local historian Mary Ann Foote, and David Rose for their support. Rose developed a website devoted to Hebron’s paths and trails, hebronpaths.org.

Chester’s map of Hebron Trails contains more than 40 different open space areas within the Town of Hebron, some of which contain trails accessible to the public. The Hibbert property is accessible from Old Colchester Road, not far from the small parking area for the Air Line Trail.

Hebron Community Comes Together After Noose Found at RHAM High School

People gathered in Hebron on Saturday to send the message that there is no home for hate.They rallied in response to a recent incident at RHAM High School where a noose was found in the boys' locker room."I'm saddened that the students who were affected had to deal with it and still have to deal with it,” said Carol Geyer, of Hebron.Like Geyer, people stood at all four corners of Routes 65 and 88 in Hebron, carrying signs and chanting, “Speak up. Stand up. Wake up.""We need to educate ou...

People gathered in Hebron on Saturday to send the message that there is no home for hate.

They rallied in response to a recent incident at RHAM High School where a noose was found in the boys' locker room.

"I'm saddened that the students who were affected had to deal with it and still have to deal with it,” said Carol Geyer, of Hebron.

Like Geyer, people stood at all four corners of Routes 65 and 88 in Hebron, carrying signs and chanting, “Speak up. Stand up. Wake up."

"We need to educate ourselves and, hopefully through that education, become more open to all people, all Americans,” said Sue Smallidge, of Hebron.

Geyer and Smallidge have lived in Hebron for decades and sent their children to RHAM High School. They are also board members of the Coalition of Diversity and Equity (CoDE), which hosted Saturday's rally.

Recently, police arrested a 17-year-old RHAM High School student they believe is connected to the incident. He now faces charges for placing a noose on public property and breach of peace.

Since he is under the age of 18, it’s being handled as a juvenile case and all records are sealed.

"I just think that people need to be accepting because it's just easier to be kind,” said Grace Collins, of Hebron.

Collins showed her support Saturday. The former RHAM student switched schools a year ago and says she knows first-hand what it is like to not feel accepted at school.

"A lot of mental bullying and not very kind actions towards me because I'm part of the LGBTQ community,” said Collins.

Beyond Hebron, the incident has leaders around the state demanding justice.

"The bottom line is a noose is a weapon. Anybody that knows the history of the United States of America knows a noose is a message of death to any person who is black. How can this be allowed to be a slap on the wrist,” said NAACP’s Rodney Alexander Jr of the Windham/Willimantic Branch.

Superintendent Collin McNamara of Regional District 8 did not respond to our request for comment Saturday, but local leaders says they plan to meet with him and town officials on Monday to discuss next steps.

"To make sure there are no barriers. No barriers to people moving here. Businesses opening here. That everyone in the schools have an opportunity to shine and be valued,” said Donna Jolly, CoDE’s Vice President.

More mosquitoes with WNV detected in Connecticut, this time in Waterbury, Hebron, Wethersfield

As of Tuesday, Aug. 15, a total of 26 mosquitoes that tested positive for WNV have been found in Connecticut.HARTFORD, Conn. — More mosquitoes trapped in Connecticut last week have tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.As of Tuesday, Aug. 15, a total of 26 mosquitoes found ...

As of Tuesday, Aug. 15, a total of 26 mosquitoes that tested positive for WNV have been found in Connecticut.

HARTFORD, Conn. — More mosquitoes trapped in Connecticut last week have tested positive for West Nile Virus, according to the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station.

As of Tuesday, Aug. 15, a total of 26 mosquitoes found in Connecticut have tested positive for WNV.

Recent detections for the week of Aug. 7 were located in Bridgeport, Darien, Hebron, Norwalk, Stamford, Wallingford, Waterbury and Wethersfield.

Wethersfield has a total of five mosquitoes carrying WNV found this season so far. One was found on July 17, three found on July 27, and the most recent one on Aug. 9, all at the Goff Road trap site.

Stamford has a total of six mosquitoes positive for WNV, between two trapping sites at Cove Island Park and Sleepy Hollow Park. Two of them were found at Cove Island last week.

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Waterbury found its first WNV-positive mosquito at its Hamilton Park trapping site on Aug. 8.

"While there's no need to panic, it's essential to stay proactive and take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and well-being," the Waterbury Health Department told city residents on Facebook on Wednesday.

Those precautions include using bug repellent with DEET, covering up with long layers, draining any standing water, and using screens for doors and windows.

There have been no reported human cases of WNV so far this season.

A total of 185 mosquitoes that tested positive for WNV were found in Connecticut in 2022, along with seven human cases reported.

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On Earth Day, Hebron group looks at ways to help preserve native flora, pollinators

On Earth Day, April 22, the Hebron Pollinator Pathway Group sponsored a workshop at the Raymond Brook Preserve centered on ways to identify and control invasive plant species.“We are all about preserving and restoring habitat for pollinators that are now in decline,” said Michele Sinkez, founder of the pollinator group.In existence since 2019, the group has sponsored a number of initiatives, including a pollinator garden at the Preserve, another near the Old Town Hall, and a “No Mow May” event.The...

On Earth Day, April 22, the Hebron Pollinator Pathway Group sponsored a workshop at the Raymond Brook Preserve centered on ways to identify and control invasive plant species.

“We are all about preserving and restoring habitat for pollinators that are now in decline,” said Michele Sinkez, founder of the pollinator group.

In existence since 2019, the group has sponsored a number of initiatives, including a pollinator garden at the Preserve, another near the Old Town Hall, and a “No Mow May” event.

The group had brought in Rose Hiskes, from the Connecticut Invasive Plants Working Group, to lead a walk around the preserve, identifying invasive plant species and instructing workshop participants on how to most effectively control them.

“Invasives out-compete native plants,” explained Sinkez, noting that pollinators rely upon native plant species in order to survive.

Often possessing extensive root structures, invasives are able to out-compete native plants because they have no natural predators here, according to Sinkez.

Hiskes didn’t have to go far to identify her first invasive species – it was everywhere along the preserve’s walking path. Identifying a patch of invasive mugwort, Hiskes then pointed to a large area covered by heavy, black plastic. The plastic had been placed by the pollinator group in order to eliminate a patch of invasive weeds.

“It is a good, passive way to suffocate [the invasives] and make a place for your natives,” said Hiskes.

Sinkez explained that the plan was to leave the plastic down until the end of the summer, at which point seeds from native plants would be planted to produce a patch of plants more healthy for the pollinators.

Hiskes later stopped at a tree that had been strangled by the oriental bittersweet vine. Its heavy stems had wrapped several times around the tree’s trunk as the vine made its way upward.

“I call this the botanical python,” said Hiskes, noting that the vine is very prolific, and a prolific seed producer.

It produces berries which birds eat, excreting out the seeds and spreading them far and wide.

Hiskes suggested a “cut-and-paste” method of dealing with the vine. Late during the growing season, cut the vines so that the top portion will die off. Paint the bottom portion while the plant is still active so that the herbicide is drawn down into the roots, hopefully killing them. Hiskes suggested a poison ivy treatment for homeowners to treat the bottom portion of the plant.

The Connecticut Invasive Plant Group has identified 10 species of plant that are of most concern in the state: Japanese Knotweed, Oriental Bittersweet, Japanese Barberry, Multiflora Rose, Mugwort, Garlic Mustard, Autumn Olive, Common Reed, Mile-A-Minute, and Swallow Wort. Additional information regarding identifying these plants and the best methods to control them can be found at https://cipwg.uconn.edu/ under the 2018 symposium presentation entitled “Connecticut’s Invasive Plant Management Calendar: The Top 10 Invasive Plants.”

The Hebron Pollinator Pathway Group encourages everyone to participate in No Mow May by leaving your lawnmowers in the shed until the beginning of June. The goal of No Mow May is to pause mowing during the month of May, allowing flowers to bloom in your lawn to help early-season pollinators. Late winter and early spring is a time when floral resources are often limited.

Hebron Fire Department, others in northeastern Connecticut facing staffing shortages

With the growing problem of recruiting and retaining firefighters, area volunteer fire departments are looking at new ways to fill their rosters.Chief Peter Starkel of the Hebron Fire Department, which has about 30 members, including 15 active members, said that there was a general decline even before the COVID pandemic, with many of the volunteers leaving due to other commitments."...

With the growing problem of recruiting and retaining firefighters, area volunteer fire departments are looking at new ways to fill their rosters.

Chief Peter Starkel of the Hebron Fire Department, which has about 30 members, including 15 active members, said that there was a general decline even before the COVID pandemic, with many of the volunteers leaving due to other commitments.

"Many of our folks work multiple jobs, greater family commitments," Starkel said. "Sports are year-round now. Folks' free time is not what it used to be. Downtime is so infrequent. A lot of people need it to recharge."

Starkel said his roster has decreased by over 50% in the past 10 years, leading to more work placed on fewer people, which then leads to burnout.

"There are good days and bad," Starkel said. "We do OK, but we're not immune to times where we're short staffed and have to rely on our mutual-aid partners."

Starkel said on the weekends, the department is short staffed and it has the bare minimum handling calls. He said the staffing size fluctuates based on the time of year and time of day. In the evening, he said, there is more help available due to personnel being home from work.

Starkel said that the town offers incentives to those who want to volunteer.

"The town has a tax abatement for volunteers that meet certain requirements. They get a reduction in property taxes," Starkel said. "There's a point system for responding to emergencies, attending training. They receive a stipend check at the end of the year."

Starkel said the department is using social media and mailers to reach out to potential recruits. The department has also been trying to do more regionally, including a joint recruitment event on Thursday at the Main Moose in Columbia.

Representatives from the Andover, Columbia, Coventry, Lebanon, and North Windham fire departments, as well as Hebron, were in attendance.

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Though the department recruits throughout the year, Starkel said larger events like this tend to attract more potential volunteers.

"We're taking part in this event because it's a larger audience," Starkel said. "Typically at a larger event, there's maybe half a dozen inquirers. Of those, one or two come to fruition."

The Coventry Fire Department has an active roster of 52 volunteers, including 10 females, 15 volunteers who are certified in fire and EMS services, and six junior members who are under the age of 18, but Fire Chief Bud Meyers said the department could use more members.

"If I were to put a number on how many volunteers we would need to maintain the services currently being provided to our citizens, it would be an additional 50 to 60 qualified EMS members," he said.

"Like most volunteer fire departments across the country, recruitment and retention is an area of high focus for the Coventry Fire Department," Meyers said. "We typically receive anywhere from one to four applications a month from individuals interested in joining the department."

Meyers said that the amount of time required to get certified is a common hurdle for new applicants.

"An entry level firefighter 1, or EMT course requires over 150 hours of training," he said.

Meyers said the firefighters and EMTs in his department are provided various incentives to promote retention and response.

"These incentives include nominal paid per-call stipends, Length of Service Award Program (LOSAP), workers compensation and supplemental insurance coverage, as well as covering tuition fees for a variety of fire and EMS courses," Meyers said.

Though the Manchester Fire Department is a paid department and not volunteer, Manchester Fire Chief Daniel French said that there is a hiring challenge across the spectrum in public safety and it is harder to attract and retain employees.

The Manchester Fire Department is a combination of firefighters, EMTs, and paramedics. French said the EMT and paramedic recruits must have their certifications prior to joining the department, and once they are accepted into the department, they receive firefighter training.

During the department's recent round of hiring, French said, only five females were hired, but one included a chief officer and a lieutenant.

French said the family aspect of the fire department keeps its employees together.

"We work hard at having a strong culture," French said. "Every two or three years, the town negotiates contracts. In the meantime, we work on putting a high priority on being one of the best in terms of service delivery, having leadership culture, and a family atmosphere. It attracts a lot of folks."

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