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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 Elkhart, IN

Home Care Elkhart, IN

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

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Morehous Residential Historic District gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Elkhart, IN is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Elkhart, IN

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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

“Our mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer and immediately needed meds administered multiple times a day. After speaking to the independent living center where she resided, our family decided to hire Always Best Care for the meds (and then later for 24-hour aids). We cannot say enough about Darlene and Candy, as well as the numerous aids. Even at the end when our mom no longer needed the meds, they would often stop by to see her anyway. We generally do not give reviews of companies, but their caring approach was exceptional and we decided it was appropriate for others who need these services to know about our experience.”

Eric M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have worked alongside Always Best Care and they have been amazing. Very quick to help out patients in need and staff is very polite and professional.”

Jill W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC is a great place to be! Thank you Patti, Stephanie, and Michele for all you do! You all are Awesome & thank you for the honors of being part of the team also acknowledging myself for Employee of the Month of March! You all are appreciated”

Sowana H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Best Company I’ve ever encountered. I love how flexible and efficient they are. I love the open door policy. Michelle is my favorite schedule she does an amazing job with communication.”

Angelnique T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been exceptional the four years i’ve worked there. The staff and schedulers, especially Michele, are helpful in finding compatibility for your clients, they’re also flexible in scheduling hours. Great company, great staff.”

Alexis E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I give always best care of 5 stars. They are caring and have a sincere heart I love working with this agency..”

Deniva J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“it is my pleasure to leave a review for the Coffee need that support the most I would like Stephanie Kramer for supporting me and helping me get through my work schedules and feel comfortable at my place of employment. I am sad to see that she left Scheduling , but she still tries her best to help everyone even with her new position. Her dedication means everything I would like to Tasha as well for communicating with me so much I also cannot forget Patricia and Michelle as well. You ladies help me so much with my client. I greatly appreciate you ladies. I appreciate all of the hard work and dedication that you ladies have with meeting me halfway when it comes to our job it definitely makes everything much easier. Keep up the great work as well as the rest of the staff thank you ladies for everything that you do and congratulations Monique on your new position.”

Doninique W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have worked with more home health agencies than I care to remember, both in GA and MI, when I worked in healthcare; and I have to say that Always Best Care is one of the best home health care agencies that I have found since the early 90's !!! I have been a client with Always Best Care since February 2022 and I have been extremely pleased with the help I have received both from my caregivers and the office staff. All the staff work hard and the quality of care is exceptional!!! The few occasions that I didn't like a caregiver because of either poor work ethic or personality, Always Best Care always took care of finding another caregiver to better meet my needs ASAP!! When I first started with Always Best Care I did get a few caregivers that weren't a good fit. But, within a very short period of time my scheduler learned my specific needs and personality and she found caregivers for me that were a wonderful match!! As in every area of healthcare, the high turnover of employees is to be expected!!! But, Always Best Care has always made sure that I have a new caregiver that matches my needs and expectations!! I have and would, highly recommend Always Best Care for your home health daily care!!”

Candace
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TESTIMONIALS

“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I called a few months ago to set up a care plan for my elderly mom. She had a hip replaced, and lives alone. I knew we would feel better having someone there to help her and visit with her until she could get up and around on her own. ABC works through our scheduling nightmares (mom tends to send people home early, and tell them not to come back)….and they have been SO patient with our ever changing and increasing needs for mom. Their response time and communication are impeccable!!”

Amy L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We used ABC several years ago for my dad, after he had a stroke. I called a few months ago to set up a care plan for my elderly mom. She had a hip replaced, and lives alone. I knew we would feel better having someone there to help her and visit with her until she could get up and around on her own. ABC works through our scheduling nightmares (mom tends to send people home early, and tell them not to come back)….and they have been SO patient with our ever changing and increasing needs for mom. Their response time and communication are impeccable!!”

Amy L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I love the company I think they really do care about the employee the residents”

Falon S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I love working for Always Best Care The staff is very helpful, encouraging wonderful, loving family. Thank you for the opportunity of serving for your company thank you to Michelle, who is always looking out for me and making sure that I have the hours that I need.”

Jazzmine .
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care gives great encouragement and support to their caregivers during any situation or time of need. The care and dedication to their staff is incredible and I throughly enjoy my time working along side them!”

Kaitlyn S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Stephanie Stevens is a great CSD! Thanks for all you do!”

Stephanie S.
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“Always Best care is amazing!”

Patti V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is a great company. Not only do they provide the best care for their clients, but they go above and beyond for their staff as well.”

Monique B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We have used Always Best Care two different times for our Mother. Both times the care was excellent. I have referred Always Best Care to several people.”

Michelle P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hi my name is Linda and I've been working with always best care for 2 years now and it's a great atmosphere I like coming in to work meeting new people. It's a place that's kind friendly and it makes you feel at home it makes you feel that you're working with people that understand you know you're different needs your different hours and if something come up they are there to help you with anything that you need help with it's a great company I'm so glad I signed up with the company I signed up a little bit after the pandemic and I just needed somewhere that I could really consider myself at home or I find a home and I have I'm amazed at how the people are so nice when you talk to them on the phone how nice they are friendly you can tell this saying it with a smile I enjoy working there I tell people ask me where I work at always best care they like what yeah always best care yes it's a nice company sign up with it you won't regret it I'm glad I do it I'm really glad I did”

Linda M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have used quite a few different providers and ABC is by far the best company. From the office staff to the caregivers, they are doing what they love and it shows.”

Wendy O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care has always been there when I needed them! They make it convenient for me to take care of my father. I most definitely recommend them!”

Stacy F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great place to work at very professional and appreciative for their staff”

JerelCDBErep C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Overall a great company to work for! They do a wonderful job recognizing caregivers; from big recognition like a monthly caregiver award and random drawings, to small recognition such as any time you visit the office you are free to grab snacks, beverages, gear and more often than not there is some type of food they have ordered that is available. They really don’t hold back in this area! There has been quite a bit of changes made in office positions within the last year. Response time, outside of the scheduling department, can be improved upon.”

Natalie C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They really help people when they need it”

Caroline
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TESTIMONIALS

“I've had caregivers for about 5 years now. Only having been disappointed and frustrated. Since Always Best Care came into my life, my worries have ended. I never knew if previous caregivers were going to show up, or do what I needed. Everytime they would complete a task, they would sit down and be on their phone. Kari and Jamisha finish a task and right to the next. No problems. My mind has been put at ease. They are very professional yet so so friendly. They ask, what else they can do for me. I also have my ABC emergency call button. Now I have peace of mind if an emergency should arise. My case coordinator Stephanie Stevens. Stays right on top of my case. Thank you so much for making my life easier. I have recommended your company to others that may need assistance in the future.”

Gary M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Carole is an excellent caring professional. She has been extremely helpful in advising us and in scheduling care. With respect to the caregivers, we have no complaints. We want to give a special thank you to Rhona for her time and effort in creating a special bond with our mother.”

Melissa E.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Elkhart, IN?

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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 Elkhart, IN

Types of Elderly Care in Elkhart, IN

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 Elkhart, IN
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 Elkhart, IN
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Island Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Elkhart, IN
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Artisan or visit Ruthmere-Havilah Beardsley House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Elkhart, IN

Benefits of Home Care in Elkhart, IN

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 Elkhart, IN, 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 Elkhart, IN

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 IN'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 Elkhart, IN

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 Elkhart, IN 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 Elkhart, IN

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 Elkhart, IN

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

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

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

  • Brentwood at Elkhart Assisted Living
  • Hellenic Senior Living of Elkhart
  • Harmony at Elkhart
  • Brentwood at Elkhart Independent Living
  • Golden LivingCenters
  • Riverside Village
Home Care Elkhart, IN

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 Elkhart, IN

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 Elkhart, IN 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 Elkhart, IN

Latest News in Elkhart, IN

Goodwill helps Elkhart and South Bend Excel Center graduates celebrate the bright future ahead

On Monday, June 9, Goodwill held a joint graduation ceremony for graduates of the Goodwill Excel Centers located in Elkhart and South Bend. Over 50 graduates and their families gathered in the auditorium of the Battell Community Center in Mishawaka for this exciting occasion. The attendees offered enthusiastic applause as the graduates walked off with their hard-earned diplomas.At the Goodwill Excel Center, adults 18 and older can receive an Indiana Core 40 diploma...

On Monday, June 9, Goodwill held a joint graduation ceremony for graduates of the Goodwill Excel Centers located in Elkhart and South Bend. Over 50 graduates and their families gathered in the auditorium of the Battell Community Center in Mishawaka for this exciting occasion. The attendees offered enthusiastic applause as the graduates walked off with their hard-earned diplomas.

At the Goodwill Excel Center, adults 18 and older can receive an Indiana Core 40 diploma and a wide variety of certifications free of charge. Since they were founded, the Excel Centers has had nearly 900 students earn their high school diploma. To facilitate the education experience, each center offers its students childcare, flexible scheduling, and transportation assistance. The Excel Center, along with Goodwill’s other community-enriching resources like the Nurse-Family Partnership, are directly supported by the selling of items that are donated to Goodwill stores.

During the course of the graduation ceremony, Indiana’s Eleventh District State Senator Linda Rogers, the guest speaker of the evening, offered the graduates her congratulations and reflected on the importance of persevering over adversity. Four Excel Center teachers were recognized for their unflagging support of students with Staff Member of the Year awards. Two students, one from each Excel Center, were presented with the Debie Coble Achievement Award, which is named after the CEO of Goodwill Industries of Michiana. This distinction recognizes students whose dedication and passion for learning makes them stand out. Coble herself presented the awards to each of the winners.

Sheizza Lopez Alvarado, a graduate of the Elkhart Excel Center and one of the Debie Coble Award recipients, graduated with her pharmacy technician certification. She plans to pursue employment and other educational opportunities as she continues to care for and support her family.

“I feel very happy and thankful right now,” Lopez Alvarado said. “This was a very difficult journey for me, but I’m really glad that I took the opportunity that was given to me. I’m thankful for my teachers and everyone who helped me through this process. I feel that I have the option to do a lot of things now. I wasn’t expecting to win the Debie Coble award, but I feel proud and accomplished now that I have.”

Lopez Alvarado particularly appreciates the Excel Center’s childcare services, as these enabled her to focus on her studies. She is grateful to the Excel Center for giving her the second chance that she had been denied so many times before due to her age.

“I was in high school over 10 years ago, but I didn’t graduate because I got pregnant with my first child,” Lopez Alvarado said. “At the time, I didn’t have a lot of support from my then-partner. However, years later, my current partner encouraged me to enroll at the Excel Center. They gave me the support I needed. The Excel Center has given me the tools I need to achieve my goals. I want to thank the Excel Center because it's one of the best things to happen to me. The faculty and staff take pride in what they do and they help people as much as possible. They are doing a great job.”

Toinette Neal, a graduate of the South Bend Excel Center and the other recipient of the Debie Coble Award, studied nursing during her one-and-a-half years at the Excel Center. She particularly enjoyed drawing upon the knowledge she had already gained when answering questions in her classes at the Excel Center. She plans to enjoy some well-deserved time off before enrolling in the nursing program at Herzing University.

“My mind is all over the place right now,” Neal said. “I did it! I can’t believe that it’s over and that I can now go down the road I’ve been wanting to be on. It’s as if a big window has opened up for me. There were a lot of things holding me back, but not any longer.”

Neal’s path to the Excel Center has been a troubled one, to say the least. When she attempted to earn her GED through a work-study program at a local church several years ago, she was given a falsified certificate. Stuck at home, unable to secure employment, and coping with the effects of a poorly-executed spinal surgery, Neal began to wonder if her fortune would ever turn.

“I was sick, couldn’t do anything, and was tired of staring at the same four walls,” Neal said. “After hearing that my daughter planned to enroll at the Excel Center, I decided to do the same. I enrolled in October of that year and haven’t stopped since. My experience at the Excel Center has been great. I had the best teachers and life coach. The work that everybody does there fits together like a hand in a glove. They truly care about each student. I love the Excel Center because they helped me do what I am doing right now: excelling.”

You can learn more about the programs that Goodwill offers and how you can support them by visiting Diploma4me.com.

Discovery Channel’s ‘RV There Yet?’ to Feature Elkhart, Ind.

EDITOR’S NOTE: A new episode of the show “RV There Yet?” is airing on the Discovery Channel this Saturday, June 21, and it is featuring a recent stop in Elkhart, Ind. Here’s what “RV There Yet” says about the episode that airs at 8:30 a.m., Saturday on Discovery and on YouTube:We finally make it to the RV C...

EDITOR’S NOTE: A new episode of the show “RV There Yet?” is airing on the Discovery Channel this Saturday, June 21, and it is featuring a recent stop in Elkhart, Ind. Here’s what “RV There Yet” says about the episode that airs at 8:30 a.m., Saturday on Discovery and on YouTube:

We finally make it to the RV Capital of the World in this week’s episode of RV There Yet? TV, and what an impressive community! They may be most recognized for their RV contributions, but this town has been the epicenter for many of inventions, industries, and innovations for decades. Did you know Alka-Seltzer was invented at Miles Laboratory in Elkhart, Indiana, in the 1930s? See? That’s just one example.

If you ask any one of us on the crew about the culinary scene they have in Elkhart, we’d all agree it’s one of the best we’ve had on our travels this entire season. Plus, the Riverwalk and downtown areas are fun and fantastic to stroll. The museums, culture, gardens, tulips – oh, my word! – the tulips were in bloom all over the city!

Here’s a few of our stops in Elkhart you will see on this episode:

Brass Elk Brewery – Local restaurant and brewery. Talk about tasty!! From the light and crisp “Porch Beer” to the deep, dry stout called “Brewer’s Breakfast” the beer was definitely something to write home about (or mention in your blog). They also had a killer menu with some familiar favorites but with their very own twist on it. Their crab cakes were amazing – all crab, the BBQ burger and fries (cooked in beef tallow) was another favorite, the Brussels Sprouts were fried, drizzled with a creamy sriracha sauce, topped with bacon and candied pecans – Oh My Word! To top off our already stuffed bellies, they bring out their homemade bread pudding in a cast iron skillet topped with fresh peach ice cream. Stop!!

Meet the Mayor – We were graciously invited to meet Elkhart’s Mayor, Rod Roberson. What a great visit, too! He’s tall, he’s charming, he grew up in Elkhart, he’s raising his family in Elkhart, and loves his city. Mayor Rod was the perfect choice to kick off our stay and send us on our way to explore more.

Hall of Heroes Super Hero Museum – Whether you’re a DC or Marvel fan, Villain or Superhero, Batman or Wonder Woman, Ironman or Captain American . . . it’s all there to interact with and reminisce. This museum is the only Superhero and comic book museum in the world preserving and covering the entire 80 year history of superheroes in comics, toys, film and animation. They have one of the largest collections of superhero memorabilia, art, and comics in the U.S. We may or may not have had a difficult time removing Patrice from Batgirl’s motorbike . . .

RV Technical Institute – The reason we decided to head to Elkhart in the first place, was to visit the RVTI. The people and curriculum behind the institute have nailed it! They are solving one of the dominant challenges the industry has faced over the years (due to the increase in RVing popularity) and that is service, certified service technicians, and how to train more. We got to spend the day at the school’s Elkhart location, in the lab and classroom, and walk through with the President, Recruitment Manager, and a Master Certified Technical Trainer. Not only are they providing more certified technicians for the RV industry, they are opening the minds and eyes of students all over the country to trades they may not have had the opportunity to learn about. Good stuff and glad we got to visit!

RV/MH Hall of FameTalk about a chunk of history being preserved! From one of the first known “RV’s” in 1913, to a “telescoping apartment” (basically the first slideout) from 1916, to Mae West’s movie trailer, and then there was the RV from Breaking Bad (sans the meth lab). All super cool to walk through and learn about the history and evolution of the RV industry.

The people of Elkhart are just who you think would be in a city that has led the country in many industries – smart, down to earth, hospitable, and ready to roll up their sleeves and get it done. We left our time in Elkhart with a few more friendships we look forward to revisiting the next time we’re back in Indiana.

Lake City Bank Welcomes Back Gregory C. Brown to Lead Newly Formed Commercial Elkhart Region

WARSAW, Ind., June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lake City Bank is pleased to welcome back Gregory C. Brown as Senior Vice President, Commercial Elkhart Regional Manager. Brown will lead the newly formed Commercial Elkhart Region, serving commercial clients in Elkhart and surrounding communities. The new region was strategically created to better serve the growing business community in Elkhart.“Since arriving in Elkhart in 1990, Lake City Bank has remained consistently dedicated to the entrepreneurial businesses that define the c...

WARSAW, Ind., June 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Lake City Bank is pleased to welcome back Gregory C. Brown as Senior Vice President, Commercial Elkhart Regional Manager. Brown will lead the newly formed Commercial Elkhart Region, serving commercial clients in Elkhart and surrounding communities. The new region was strategically created to better serve the growing business community in Elkhart.

“Since arriving in Elkhart in 1990, Lake City Bank has remained consistently dedicated to the entrepreneurial businesses that define the community. The decision to create a team solely dedicated to Elkhart is reflective of the success we’ve had in Elkhart over the last 35 years and of our continued growth in the market,” said David M. Findlay, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Greg’s deep knowledge of the Elkhart market, combined with his leadership experience and commitment to relationship banking, make him the ideal person to lead this new region.”

Brown will lead a team of three Commercial Banking Officers based in Elkhart, while Todd A. Bruce, Senior Vice President, will continue to lead the Commercial North Region team. The Commercial North Region will focus on serving commercial clients in St. Joseph County and the surrounding Northwest Indiana and Southwest Michigan communities.

“Greg’s return is a win for Lake City Bank and for our clients,” said Eric H. Ottinger, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Banking Officer. “He understands the unique dynamics of the Elkhart community and has a proven track record of building strong client relationships. We’re confident he will continue our strong growth momentum in Elkhart. We’re also excited for the new opportunities that our regional realignment will allow Todd’s team to pursue in South Bend and the surrounding area.”

Brown has 30 years of experience in financial services, including his previous tenure with Lake City Bank as a Commercial Banking Officer from 2016-2021. He has volunteered with many organizations in Elkhart, including serving as a previous board chair of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Elkhart County, board treasurer of the Greater Elkhart Chamber of Commerce, and board treasurer of Elcona Country Club.

“I’m excited to be back at Lake City Bank and to lead the new Commercial Elkhart Region,” said Brown. “Elkhart has been my home since moving here in 2003. It’s a vibrant and resilient community, and I look forward to working with our experienced team to help local businesses grow and thrive.”

Lake City Bank, a $6.9 billion bank headquartered in Warsaw, Indiana, was founded in 1872 and serves Central and Northern Indiana communities with 54 branch offices and a robust digital banking platform. Lake City Bank’s community banking model prioritizes building in-market long-term customer relationships while delivering technology-forward solutions for retail and commercial clients. The bank is the single bank subsidiary of Lakeland Financial Corporation (Nasdaq Global Select/LKFN). For more information visit www.lakecitybank.com.

ContactLuke WeickVice PresidentMarketing Manager(574) 267-9198 x47279 office(260) 431-7061 [email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fcccd455-e4fa-4151-9871-5ea9a04ce988

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