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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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

Home Care Lake Stockholm, NJ

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.

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Lake Stockholm, NJ

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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

“Liz and her team are the consumate professionals when it comes to providing quality care for our seniors. They provide compassionate and competent care without forgetting about empathy and dignity for those entrusted in their care. Providing exceptional care...and then some...isn't what they do, it's simply who they are. Thank you, Liz, for providing such exceptional leadership to your team!”

Ron P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Liz…. Is simply the Best ! Her professionalism is amazing …”

Lincoln A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Liz is beyond TOP NOTCH at what she does, and the services she provides. We had a difficult family situation, and she handled it with grace, and provided my family with service, and advice above and beyond what I expected to receive!!! Thank you!!!”

Rick M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“When Always Best Care was referred to us by a friend, we didn’t quite know what to expect. Meeting the charming and charismatic Liz the owner and her smiling staff at the agency however put our hearts and minds at ease although we were in the middle of the pandemic. They are down-to-earth caring, compassionate and professional and our aunt could not ask for anything more. I truly recommend Always Best Care.”

Maria F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent service, Always Best Care takes care well of your loved one. They are professionals and certified which makes them on top of everything. Just call Liz Johnson and she will help and goes above and beyond. I would highly recommend them.”

Mel S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“If you are looking for the right team to help you provide in-home care for your loved one, Always Best Care should be your first call. Liz and her team are trustworthy, caring, and compassionate. They go above and beyond for their clients and their families! They are truly exceptional!”

Nick S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Liz and her staff are hands down the best!!!”

John C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services and CEO Liz Johnson, provide compassionate and qualified care for seniors and patients recovering from surgery. Liz has a heart for families who need to make those tough choices and is a knowledgeable resource for those in need. She addresses questions and concerns with advice and solutions based on her professional acumen and life experience. I would recommend Liz wholeheartedly. Make her your first call when you need support for a loved one!”

Kristine P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides the highest level of in home care for your loved ones. I have used this agency to provide in home care for several family members and loved ones. Their aides provide compassionate care and have allowed my family members to age in their home with dignity and grace. Highly recommend !!!”

Carmen D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent company! They care deeply for each person they work with and I highly recommend them. Very reliable and quick to respond. The owner is just amazing!”

Christian M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“You will always get the best care and service. Liz is so compassionate and attentive and treats everyone as if they were family. I highly recommend!”

Karen M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“When my special needs son broke his femur we called Liz for help. Although she specializes in Senior Care, we knew her company would take great care of our pre-teen. We can never thank Liz and her company enough for the kindness and great care they provided not just for our son, but for our entire family! What a relief it was to know he was being well cared for with such kindness and compassion. I would highly recommend Always Best Care Senior Services.”

Dan G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care have been a good company,and they always check on the workers,and make everything so easy for me,I never have bad experience wit them,I like my supervisor Mrs Leslie and the Coordinator Esoma bcos they always check on us wit my client and confirm if everything is working so good wit us,please all I want to say to them,is to keep the good work contine,may the company continues to be bless wit good people and so caring about the Aides....thank you so very much”

Rashidat O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I was referred to Always Best Care by a close friend when I was searching for an assisted living community for my parents. I found the staff extremely professional and helpful right from our first meeting. What I appreciate the most is their prompt service and flexibility. Since I have my job in another city, I wasn’t able to take care of my parents and eventually had to make the difficult decision to move them to assisted living. Thanks to Always Best Care for speeding up the whole process according to my schedule. Highly Recommended!”

Nick J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Quick and reliable assistance from the skilled team at Always Best Care played a major in my father’s recovery from osteoporosis. The assigned caregiver was extremely patient and supportive. He helped my father with all sorts of exercises. I strongly recommend Always Best Care for the well being of your beloved elders.”

Mustafa H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We found Anna through Always Best Care to take care of my ailing mother-in-law. She is honest, reliable, and goes out of her way to help my mother-in-law with her daily chores. I never have to worry that she wouldn’t show up on time or would find excuses for not doing some tasks. She is also very funny and keeps us laughing all day long. We are really happy with the services offered by Always Best Care. The attentiveness and quick response of their staff has made things quite easy for us. We know that they are there to address our needs no matter what time of the day we call them. They genuinely care about the health and well-being of their clients. And that’s what makes them so much better than other agencies.”

Rambo J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“After my father was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we looked at all of the different companies in the marketplace. We received great care from our caregiver and really appreciated the patient approach they took with my dad. With much gratitude to the team at Always Best Care!”

Connie M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Nicky provided ten months of excellent care to my 82 years old mother who had dementia. She was caring in every possible way which was exactly what the family wanted for her. She passed away last month, but peacefully and with dignity. Thank you so much Always Best Care for the amazing service.”

Larry K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”

Waylon C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Your approach and calming demeanor are truly a gift and personal calling! You have helped more than you will ever realize”

Robbie M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great Agency! Esoma The Coordinator is the best in the field! So caring about the Aides! Thanks again!”

Betty M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider My ninety year old grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a few months ago. Without the in home care provided by Always Best Care, I do not know how we would have managed everything. I am grateful for the dedicated service they have provided to us.”

Allen B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“It has been a delightful experience to work with Always Best Care. Over the last three years, I have had a few caregivers come in to care for my mother who has Alzheimer’s. When she was diagnosed with the condition, I had little hope of her getting back to her normal self again. She had almost stopped smiling. But after I had the wonderful caregivers to care for her, I saw a great improvement in her health. She seems not only healthier, but happier too. Thank you Always Best Care.”

Cindy R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I really liked the caregiver who came to help my mom during her recovery from a major surgery. She took great care of her and ensured a quick recovery. A hearty thanks to Always Best Care.”

Christoper W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”

Stephen B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I would like to offer my thanks to Always Best Care for providing what I believe is a top-class service. They have amazing caregivers who took care of my mother-in-law post her heart surgery. She was back to her normal routine faster than we thought. It wouldn’t have been possible without the care and support of their caregivers.”

Waylon C.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Lake Stockholm, NJ?

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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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

Types of Elderly Care in Lake Stockholm, NJ

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ
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 Lake Stockholm, NJ
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.

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ
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. 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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

Benefits of Home Care in Lake Stockholm, NJ

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ, 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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

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 NJ'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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ 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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

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.

Home Care Lake Stockholm, NJ

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

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 Lake Stockholm, NJ 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 Lake Stockholm, NJ

Latest News in Lake Stockholm, NJ

N.J. weather: Which N.J. towns got the most snow? See latest snowfall totals.

One New Jersey town was pummeled Saturday by more than 13 inches of snow. Several counties saw between 6 to 12 inches blanket sidewalks and streets. And dozens of other areas barely reported an inch, reports from the National Weather Service indicated.The Garden State’s first major snowfall of 2024 hit hardest in the northwestern part of the state — with parts of Central and S...

One New Jersey town was pummeled Saturday by more than 13 inches of snow. Several counties saw between 6 to 12 inches blanket sidewalks and streets. And dozens of other areas barely reported an inch, reports from the National Weather Service indicated.

The Garden State’s first major snowfall of 2024 hit hardest in the northwestern part of the state — with parts of Central and South Jersey seeing mostly wet snow, sleet and rain over the cold weekend.

As of Sunday evening, the storm had mainly passed, but a hazardous weather outlook for the inland parts of Ocean County remained in effect until Sunday night.

Meteorologists have now turned their attention to another storm, which could bring between 2 to 3 inches of rain to parts of New Jersey.

The latest forecast for Tuesday’s storm includes possible significant flooding from both rain and melting snow, minor coastal flooding and heavy winds following Saturday’s storm, the NWS said Sunday afternoon.

In its own update Sunday at 2:46 p.m., AccuWeather senior meteorologist Dan Pydynowski, said “the most notable impact from the upcoming storm will be high winds and flooding rainfall.”

Here’s a look at the latest snowfall totals reported by the National Weather Service in 16 New Jersey counties between Sunday night and Monday morning.

Bergen County

Burlington County

Camden County

Essex County

Gloucester County

Hudson County

Hunterdon County

Mercer County

Middlesex County

Monmouth County

Morris County

Passaic County

Somerset County

Sussex County

Union County

Warren County

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Lake Gerard owners: Pay up or leave

By ROBERTA [email protected] -- Lake Gerard home owners have been told to pay up or face eviction.Summer residents at Lake Gerard were recently given notice that property owner Harriet Gerard intends to increase rents at the lake community, and those who don't pay will face eviction."This is getting to be old hat for us; Harriet has decided to try to evict us again," said William Barrett, president of the Lake Gerard Fish and Game Club. There are 78 homes on the lake, ei...

By ROBERTA FUGATE

[email protected]

HARDYSTON -- Lake Gerard home owners have been told to pay up or face eviction.

Summer residents at Lake Gerard were recently given notice that property owner Harriet Gerard intends to increase rents at the lake community, and those who don't pay will face eviction.

"This is getting to be old hat for us; Harriet has decided to try to evict us again," said William Barrett, president of the Lake Gerard Fish and Game Club. There are 78 homes on the lake, eight of which house full-time residents.

Barrett said Gerard mailed new leases two months ago and told residents that the old leases were no longer in effect. The residents were offered new leases that propose to increase their rents between 350 to 400 percent over the next three years.

Barrett said these leases also contained many new conditions and tenants were informed to either sign the leases or they would be evicted. The rent increases would mean residents would pay between $20,000 to $25,000 per year in rent. Gerard has offered to sell lots to the summer residents for prices ranging from $170,000 to more than $200,000, Barrett said.

Gerard wants to turn the summer homes into full-time year-round condominiums, Barrett said. Association members own their homes but pay rent for the land and lake rights.

Barrett and his wife have had a cabin on Lake Gerard for decades. He said the dispute began in 1991 when Gerard attempted to evict the people who bought modest summer cottages on the lake.

According to Barrett, Gerard has let the lake area fall into disrepair, refusing to provide maintenance of the wells, dams, meeting hall and roads at the site.

In 2006, the Lake Gerard Company filed a public offering statement with the state Department of Consumer Affairs for the purpose of converting approximately 605 acres of land surrounding the 95-acre Lake Gerard into a condominium development.

Leslie Hamilton, Hardyston township councilwoman and member of the Planning Board, said there are currently no plans to build on the Lake Gerard property before the board.

"They are very limited to what they can do because of the Highlands," Hamilton said.

The homeowners offered to buy the lake and 600 acres for $6 million. The family sold 1,200 acres for about $4 million to the state about four years ago, which the state is preserving as open space.

Lake Gerard is an 1,800-acre property in the Stockholm section of Hardyston that was a popular vacation area in the 1920s. In the 1950s, about 156 acres of the property were settled and vacation homes were built, with the homeowners paying rent to Gen. James Gerard for the land on which the homes stood.

The property owners and Lake Gerard have been involved in litigation for years. The Lake Gerard Company sued the renters in 1991, noting that if they didn't sign a rental agreement they would be evicted.

"Ms. Gerard is playing with people's lives. This isn't just a vacation spot. This is the place where we raised our children and grandchildren," said Ed Mueller, a long-time, year-round resident of Lake Gerard."

Community members challenged their leases in 1991, saying the rents were unreasonably increased and the short-term manner of the leases was unfair. An agreement was eventually reached in 2000 when residents settled rights to homes they owned on rented lakefront property.

Under the terms of the agreement, the homeowners received a three-year lease on the properties, with one-year rental agreements after that.

Carol Noonan of Clifton said she has memories of Lake Gerard from the 1960s when her parents took her there to visit friends and she caught fish from the deck and swam in the lake. Five years ago she purchased her own cabin on the lake.

"In 2003 we thought we were preparing a new generation to experience the happiness we had at the lake. My cousin would teach his kids to swim and fish there and it would be just like it was before. I can't afford to stay at the lake, not now. Not with these lease figures," she said.

Barrett said the next step for the home owners will be for them to present their case in court.

Gerard's attorney did not return phone calls.

New lawyer joins Askin & Hooker

SPARTA — Askin & Hooker, LLC of Sparta, NJ is pleased to announce that Kelly M. Stoll Esq. has joined the firm as a Senior Associate in their litigation practice group. Stoll’s practice will focus on personal injury, environmental and commercial litigation. “I am very excited to join Askin & Hooker,” Stoll said. “They are doing remarkable work for the community and I am eager to expand my practice area with such notable attorneys.” Stoll has been named to the Top 40 Under 40 attorneys by the Nation...

SPARTA — Askin & Hooker, LLC of Sparta, NJ is pleased to announce that Kelly M. Stoll Esq. has joined the firm as a Senior Associate in their litigation practice group. Stoll’s practice will focus on personal injury, environmental and commercial litigation. “I am very excited to join Askin & Hooker,” Stoll said. “They are doing remarkable work for the community and I am eager to expand my practice area with such notable attorneys.” Stoll has been named to the Top 40 Under 40 attorneys by the National Trial Lawyers Asso-ciation three years in a row and to the Top 10 Personal Injury Attorneys Under 40 by the National Academy of Personal Injury Attorneys. She is a SuperLawyers rising star and National Academy of Personal Injury Lawyers, Top 10 Under 40 in North Jersey. Stoll has focused her legal career in the area of personal injury, fighting for compensation for those who are seriously injured through the negligence of others, whether it be through a car accident, medical malpractice or a premises liability case. “Kelly has extensive experience in Personal Injury Law and her overall general litigation skills will be a great asset, and carry over, to other litigation matters within our firm,” Todd Hooker said. “We are thrilled that she has decided to join us.” Stoll received her undergraduate degree from Fordham University before graduating cum laude from Rutgers Law – Newark where she was a managing editor of the Rutgers Law Review. Upon graduating, she was named a Myron S. Harkavy Scholar for Excellence in Trial Advocacy and was admitted to the Order of the Coif, a prestigious national honor society. She is licensed to practice law in New York and New Jersey in addition to the United States District Court for the Federal District of New Jersey. She is a barrister for the Brennan Vanderbilt Innes of Court and is a member of the New Jersey Association for Justice as well as Phi Alpha Delta. “Kelly is passionate about helping those in the community,” William Askin said. “She has the same mission and vision as the Askin & Hooker firm and we are honored to have her as part of the team.” Stoll is a Sussex County native, having graduated from Wallkill Valley High School. She currently resides with her husband and two children in Lake Stockholm, Hardyston, New Jersey. For additional information visit: www.askinlaw.com

What to do in Hopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Saturday, April 6Local EventApr6Stockholm United Methodist Church’s Spring Craft FairSunday, April 7Featured EventApr7...

Saturday, April 6

Local Event

Apr6

Stockholm United Methodist Church’s Spring Craft Fair

Sunday, April 7

Featured Event

Apr7

Fabulous Green Pond Open House! Most Desirable Lake Community in NJ! Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 PM

Sunday, 2:00 pmJefferson, NJ

Monday, April 8

Local Event

Apr8

April 8th Solar Eclipse Watch Party

Monday, 3:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Local Event

Apr8

NJ Boating License Class and Exam

Monday, 6:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Tuesday, April 9

Local Event

Apr9

Free Money Management Class on FICO Scores!

Tuesday, 2:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Wednesday, April 10

Local Event

Apr10

Free Money Management Class on FICO Scores!

Wednesday, 5:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Local Event

Apr10

Unseen Sussex County

Wednesday, 7:30 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Thursday, April 11

Featured Event

Apr11

Friday, April 12

Local Event

Apr12

Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes Live in Concert

Friday, 8:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Saturday, April 13

Featured Event

Apr13

Summer Job Fair Saturday ,April 13 11am-3pm

Saturday, 11:00 amHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Local Event

Apr13

Kashmir Live in Concert

Saturday, 8:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Sunday, April 14

Local Event

Apr14

Metal: From Earth to Form and Fashion - OPENING DAY

Sunday, 1:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Local Event

Apr14

Shepherd of the Hills to Hold Fish & Chips Fundraiser

Sunday, 4:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Monday, April 15

Local Event

Apr15

NJ Boating License and Exam

Monday, 6:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Tuesday, April 16

Local Event

Apr16

Learn How to Make a Budget for Free!

Tuesday, 2:00 pmHopatcong-Sparta, NJ

Wednesday, April 17

Uncovering an unexpected hideaway

Rock Lodge nudist camp opens its doors to the public, By Eileen Stanbridge Stockholm The beautiful lakes and mountains of northern New Jersey have drawn people to the lake communities in the area from as far back as early in the last century. Over the years, Rock Lodge in Stockholm has been many things. In the 1920s, it was a training camp for boxers. In the early 1930s, it was a health farm. Later, during the Depression, Herman Shoshinsky leased the property as the proprietor of the American Gymnosphical Association, which was the euphemism...

Rock Lodge nudist camp opens its doors to the public, By Eileen Stanbridge Stockholm The beautiful lakes and mountains of northern New Jersey have drawn people to the lake communities in the area from as far back as early in the last century. Over the years, Rock Lodge in Stockholm has been many things. In the 1920s, it was a training camp for boxers. In the early 1930s, it was a health farm. Later, during the Depression, Herman Shoshinsky leased the property as the proprietor of the American Gymnosphical Association, which was the euphemism of the day for a nudist camp. It has remained so to this day, known since 1942 as the Rock Lodge Nudist Club and now as a cooperative with a large membership. Until recently, it had kept a low profile. Three years ago, it declined a request by this newspaper to do a feature story about it. But that is changing, and the clearest sign is an open house the club held last Saturday to introduce itself to those who want to know more. “We are basically like any other lake community, except I would say that we are more socially diverse,” said Howard Lentner, the lodge’s public relations director. Rock Lodge consists of 145 acres and contains a spring fed lake in the mountains more than 1,000 feet above sea level. There, members can enjoy hot summers in the cool mountain air. Privately owned cabins and houses dot the lake shore and accommodations for weekend and longer stays are also available in rental rooms or cabins. “Members can enjoy the grounds by playing tennis, volleyball, swimming, hiking, boating and just plain lounging,” said Lentner. Members of the nudist club are definitely aware that the outside world may view them as a little strange. Many declined to be photographed or interviewed for this story, preferring to enjoy their privacy. Others had no reservations about being depicted au naturel. “I’m sure that more than a few people have the view that because we walk around naked that there is some kind of sexual aspect to it, but I can assure you that we as a community have as little tolerance for bad behavior as any other community in the area,” said Lentner. “In fact, as a female friend once said to me, it’s difficult to be provocative when you are not wearing any clothing.” Rock Lodge advertises itself as a family-oriented club and has members ranging from 90 years old to infants. The activities at the colony are much the same as you would expect to find at any other lake community, the only difference being that, weather permitting, everyone is naked. “We are nudists, but we are not exhibitionists,” said Sandy Kennedy, who has been visiting Rock Lodge from New York City since 1992. “This is a beautiful place, and being naked feels good when there is nothing to be ashamed of. This is a safe place for anyone,” he added. Rock Lodge is open from May 1- Oct. 31 and throughout the season offers a number of activities including talent shows, lake activities, dances, barbecues, bring-a-dish parties, and arts and crafts shows. “I was recently appointed as the public relations person and I thought that it would be nice to let people know that we are here and that we do welcome day visitors and often refer them to local hotels in the area,” said Lentner. “We are very much a family club represented by several generations and we also welcome single men and women.” For more information call 973-697-9721 or go to www.rocklodge.com.

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