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Parkinson’s Care Services

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So You’ve Been Diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease, Now What?

Parkinson’s Disease, also known as PD, is a form of dementia and is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that affects neurons in the brain that produce dopamine, which is the chemical in our brains that controls movement and coordination. With the right care team including neurologists, movement disorder specialists, and community support from the right home care agency, local PD association you can navigate your PD journey without doing it alone. Approaching your diagnosis with a positive and open attitude is the first step in developing a plan with the steps below!

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Parkinson’s Disease
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Always Best Care Parkinson’s Disease Services

Knowing that no matter how busy you are in your daily life, your loved one’s well-being is always our top priority.
  • Partner with your doctor​
    You should always follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Being informed is key, especially with the pros and cons of treatments available for PD and should be discussed thoroughly with your dr. You are your best advocate, so be sure to speak honestly with your care team.
  • Assemble your team​
    While doctors and nurses are a vital part of your care team, you should also consider alternative health professionals like speech, physical and occupation therapists. Some states also offer a Big & Loud Therapy program which combines physical and speech therapy methods to help improve balance, gait, breathing & swallowing. Speak with your neurologist or movement disorder specialist about other disciplines and potential referrals for outside therapies.
  • Stay Active​
    Studies show that people with Parkinson’s who exercise regularly do better with managing the progression of symptoms than those who do not. Your exercise routine doesn’t need to be overly intense, there are many low-impact exercises that work just as well like walking, yoga, tai chi, and swimming. You should always consult your physician before beginning any exercise routine though. You can find many free or low-cost exercise programs at your local senior center or through your local American Parkinson Disease Association chapter.
  • You Are What You Eat​
    We’ve heard this statement going all the way back to childhood when our diet consisted of hot dogs and chicken nuggets, and we were told we’d turn into a hot dog or chicken nugget! Studies show maintaining healthy eating habits and avoiding high processed foods can help with proper absorption of your PD medications. Regular hydration promotes bone health, which reduces your risk of major injury in the event of a fall. Proper hydration also helps combat constipation which is a symptom of PD.
  • Sleep
    It’s easy to tell when we’ve not gotten a restful night’s sleep because we are often left sluggish and easily distracted through our day. For people with Parkinson’s, sleep is even more important because your body needs even more attention focused on restoring strength as symptoms progress. Sleep disorders are common in people with Parkinson’s, so adding a sleep disorder specialist to your care team can help with additional guidance and treatments.
  • Consider Alternative Approaches
    Keep an open mind to approaches outside of medical care. Things like tai chi, meditation, Reiki, and massage are all good therapies for people with Parkinson’s. When looking into holistic approaches, you should steer clear of any practitioners who claim to have a “cure” for PD or that advise quitting prescription medications cold turkey without consulting with your physician first.
  • Participate in Clinical Trials
    As time goes on, researchers learn more about PD through people with Parkinson’s who participate in clinical trials. Not only does it help you play a more active role in your own care, including having access to new treatments before they become available, but you can also help scientists develop better treatments, slowing disease progression, and someday finding a cure for PD. Many clinical trials never come to fruition because of a shortage of participants, but you can help change this. If interested in a clinical trial, consult your physician to make an informed decision on what trials are right for you. You can also visit our Resource page for more information.
  • Become an Advocate
    Advocacy is such a vital part of raising awareness about PD. Simply put, an advocate educates individuals and the community about resources and services that are available. Anyone can become an advocate, whether you’re a professional in the senior care industry, a family member, a friend, or someone living with PD. Aside from raising awareness, you can also fundraise, donate, or volunteer to make the voice of the PD community heard.
  • Join a Support Group
    Whether you’re a person with Parkinson’s or a care partner, there are lots of community programs available to support you through the journey. It’s important to explore and join a support group that can help you and your family with everyday concerns and allows an open and inclusive environment to learn more about PD as well as providing a support system of new friends who may be sharing similar experiences. Support groups provide a wealth of information including advocacy, education, and other services available in your community.
  • Plan for the Future
    A diagnosis of PD comes with an increase in medical costs, medication expenses, home modifications, and other health care related needs. Financial planners, elder law attorneys, and home care agencies like ABC, can help you put your plan together for your journey with PD. Planning for your future not only provides peace of mind for yourself, but your loved ones as well.
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Parkinson’s Care Services

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All About Parkinson’s

Over the past few years, we’ve seen an increase in the number of clients who have PD, and having a Care Partner can make a big difference by helping with everyday tasks, as well as overall monitoring of the disease. Tune into this week’s episode to learn how having a Care Partner can help in and around the home!

National Banana Day

The banana. It can be eaten peeled, in the form of bread (always with chocolate chips), pudding, dehydrated into chips, or blended as a smoothie. First brought west from India and other Asian countries in 327 B.C., it’s a favorite fruit of many because of their soft texture and sweet, dessert-like taste. This month I’ve focused on Parkinson’s education so naturally, it only made sense to tie it in with National Banana Day which falls on the 3rd Wednesday in April each year. Tune in to this week’s video to learn about the benefits of bananas for Parkinson’s!

Supporting People with Parkinson’s

April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month. Parkinson’s Disease, also known as PD, is a form of dementia and is a chronic and progressive movement disorder that affects neurons in the brain that produce dopamine, which is the chemical in our brains that controls movement and coordination. Receiving support for PD is so important and helpful to many who have been diagnosed.

SPECIAL SOLUTIONS FOR SPECIAL NEEDS

What to Expect Along Your PD Journey

Discover our porfolio of technology and special care services, designed to cater to the needs of you and your loved ones.

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Stage 1

Mild symptoms that don’t interfere with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), tremors & motor symptoms start off affecting only one side of the body. Start of changes in posture, walking and facial expressions (facial masking).

Stage 2

Symptoms begin to worsen. Tremor, rigidity, and other motor symptoms affect both sides of the body, neck & trunk. Walking problems and poor posture are obvious. Client can live alone but ADLs can be difficult and take longer to complete.

Stage 3

Mid-stage includes loss of balance and unsteadiness when turning or standing from a seated position. Falls are more common; motor symptoms continue to worsen. Client is restricted in their ADLs but is still physically capable of living independently.

Stage 4

Symptoms are fully developed and severely disabling. Client can walk and stand but may need cane/walker for safety. Significant help with ADLs is needed and client can’t live alone.

Stage 5

Most advanced and debilitating stage. Stiffness in legs makes standing and walking impossible. Client is bedridden or confined to a wheelchair unless aided in transfers. 24/7 care is required for all ADLs.

Beginning Stage

  • Meal preparation​
    Motor symptoms from Parkinson’s make it hard to stand for long periods of time so cooking can be challenging.
  • Companionship
    There can be an increase of isolation when newly diagnosed due to weakness, discomfort, or trouble driving because of motor symptoms.
  • Medication reminders
    Medication for Parkinson’s is time sensitive, meaning it must be taken on time, every time. A care partner can provide gentle reminders to stay on track and keep motor symptoms at bay.
  • Light housekeeping and/or laundry
    Motor symptoms can make keeping up with the house difficult, and going up and down stairs for laundry can be unsafe.
  • Accompaniment to doctor & therapy appointments
    You may need support or encouragement when visiting your doctor. In other cases, you may need someone to take notes for family members unable to attend appointments, but who still want to be involved. With therapy, a care partner can shadow the appointment to help continue exercises at home.

APDA

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TESTIMONIALS

“The level of dedication Crystal has to her work is amazing!! I cannot say how impressive the effort and the results Crystal has displayed over the last several months, how lucky I feel to have her apart of my mother’s weekly life. Crystal has established trust, friendship, and a sincere companionship with my mother who, not so long ago, was so adamantly opposed to having anyone in her house. When speaking with Crystal and my mother, I could hear the excitement in Crystal’s voice when she shared her success in getting my Mom out of the house. Can’t thank you enough!!”

Bob H.
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“Always Best Care of Central CT is helping me with my mom who is 92 and still living on her own. The in-home care they are providing is the best. Without the assistance they are providing us in Enfield this would be overwhelming.”

Bob R.
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“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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“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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“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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“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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“You can’t go wrong with this crew. Extremely patient and caring.”

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

Kimberly O.
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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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“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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““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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“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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“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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“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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“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

“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

“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.
Ready To Answer Your Questions

FAQs About In Home Care Services

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Always Best Care provides services for people who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that cannot easily be provided by their family or friends. More and more older adults prefer to live independent, non-institutionalized lives, and in-home care is a safe, effective way to provide care in the comfort of one’s own home.

The answer depends on the type of care, the location of care and the level of care that is needed. At Always Best Care we provide a no obligation care consultation and provide advice on many options for paying for home care for your loved one.

Our company vision is to work as a united team providing the best senior care in the world, with the broadest range of services, and the most loving and consistent care anywhere. We are dedicated to exceeding your expectations…always

Your Care Coordinator will work with you and your loved one to select the best qualified caregiver for each client. They will carefully review your care plan and try to match the right caregiver with the specific needs of each client. Our goal is to make sure that you and your loved one are completely satisfied with our service and we will bend over backwards to make this happen.

Every Always Best Care location employs all their caregivers, so extensive background and reference checks are conducted. Caregivers are insured for your safety and they all receive extensive training upon being hired and on-going training to keep up with the demand of our industry. What this means for you is that you or your loved one will receive some of the best caregivers our industry has to offer.

The time frame to begin care for a senior will depend on the urgency of the need for the person and family that will be receiving care. It will be important for the senior and their family to speak with a provider in order to discuss care needs, where care will be provided, how soon care will need to begin, and a budget for their care services. Based on the needs of the senior and their family, a care plan can be developed, whether needed for a few hours each week or around the clock care.

How people pay for long-term care, whether delivered at home or in a hospital, assisted living facility, or nursing home, depends on their financial situation and the kinds of services they use. In many cases, people believe that their current health or disability insurance will pay for their long-term care needs, but most of these insurance policies include limited, if any, long-term care benefits. Often, people must rely on a variety of payment sources, including personal funds, government programs, and private financing options.

Traditional Medicare does not pay for 24-hour-a-day care at your home, meals delivered to your home, homemaker services like shopping, cleaning, and laundry that aren’t related to your care plan, custodial, or personal care that helps you with daily living activities like bathing, dressing, or using the bathroom, when this is the only care that is needed.

Home Based Primary Care is part of the VA Medical Benefits. All enrolled Veterans are eligible IF they meet the clinical need for the service and it is available.

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