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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 New Bern, NC

Home Care New Bern, NC

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

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting Tryon Palace in New Bern, NC 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 New Bern, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care New Bern, NC

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The Always Best Care Difference

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

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

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

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in New Bern, NC?

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

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

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

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

 Senior Care New Bern, NC

Types of Elderly Care in New Bern, NC

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

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

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

Common personal care services include assistance with:

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

Respite Care New Bern, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

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

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

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

Companionship Services

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

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Persimmons Waterfront Restaurant or visit North Carolina History Center at Tryon Palace, 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 New Bern, NC

Benefits of Home Care in New Bern, NC

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

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

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 Elderly Care New Bern, NC

Affordable Care

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

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

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

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

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

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

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

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

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

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

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

Assisted Living Referral Services

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

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


Respite Care New Bern, NC

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Home Place of New Bern
  • Navion of New Bern
  • Truewood by Merrill, New Bern
  • The Gardens of Trent
  • The Viridian
  • Carebridge Assisted Living
Home Care New Bern, NC

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

 In-Home Care New Bern, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

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

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

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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

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

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

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

 Elderly Care New Bern, NC

Latest News in New Bern, NC

New Bern Municipal Election results for Mayor, Board of Aldermen, and bond referendums

The polls closed at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7, and the results are in for New Bern's 2025 Municipal Elections, pending runoffs. On the ballot on Tuesday were the Mayor, the Board of Aldermen, and bond referendums.The names in bold are the projected winners for the 2025 New Bern Municipal Elections, according to the NC State Board of Elections:Mayor:Scott Andrews- 408- 6.51%Greg Fahy-164- 2.62%Jeffrey Odham- 3,083-49.18%Holly Raby-2,603- 41.52%Write-In/Miscellaneous- 11- 0...

The polls closed at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7, and the results are in for New Bern's 2025 Municipal Elections, pending runoffs. On the ballot on Tuesday were the Mayor, the Board of Aldermen, and bond referendums.

The names in bold are the projected winners for the 2025 New Bern Municipal Elections, according to the NC State Board of Elections:

Mayor:

Scott Andrews- 408- 6.51%

Greg Fahy-164- 2.62%

Jeffrey Odham- 3,083-49.18%

Holly Raby-2,603- 41.52%

Write-In/Miscellaneous- 11- 0.18%

Precincts reported: 11 of 11

Holly Raby has indicated that he will request a runoff, which would be held on November 4.

Ward 1 Alderman:

Trey Ferguson- 805- 60.07%

Alana Huber-462- 34.48%

Bernard White- 72-5.37%

Write-In/Miscellaneous- 1- 0.07%

Precincts reported: 5 of 5

Ward 2 Alderman:

Sharon Bryant- 389- 50.39%

Debby Seymore- 381-49.35%

Write-In/Miscellaneous- 2- 0.26%

Precincts reported: 5 of 5

Ward 3 Alderman:

Bobby Aster- 1,118- 97.30%

Write-In/Miscellaneous- 31- 2.70%

Precincts reported: 3 of 3

Ward 4 Alderman:

Nadine Buchanan- 202- 25.06%

Johnnie Ray Kinsey- 276- 34.24%

Lainy White- 324- 40.20%

Write-In/Miscellaneous-4- 0.50%

Precincts reported: 3 of 3

Ward 5 Alderman:

Barbara Best- 418- 64.91%

Manny Ruiz- 223- 34.63%

Write-In/Miscellaneous-3- 0.47%

Precincts reported: 5 of 5

Ward 6 Alderman:

Nat Crosby- 437- 34.71%

Dana Outlaw- 817- 64.89%

Write-In/Miscellaneous-5- 0.40%

Precincts reported: 3 of 3

Streets & Sidewalks Bond Referendum:

Yes- 4,142- 69.60%

No- 1,809- 30.40%

Precincts reported: 11 of 11

Parks & Recreation Bond Referendum:

Yes- 3,907- 65.72%

No- 2,038- 34.28%

Precincts reported: 11 of 11

Stormwater Bond Referendum:

Yes- 4,585- 75.62%

No- 1,478- 24.38%

Precincts reported: 11 of 11

From the Craven County Board of Elections:

Per the State Board: New Bern elections are all pick 1, so if no one gets 50% + 1, then the second-highest vote getter can request a runoff no later than noon on October 16, the Thursday after canvass. If they don't request a runoff, then the highest vote getter is declared elected under NCGS 163-293(b)(1).

10 Best Places To Retire In North Carolina

North Carolina has long been a popular destination for retirees, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, a mild climate, and affordability. From coastal towns to mountain communities, the state offers a wide range of settings for a comfortable next chapter. Low property taxes and an exemption on Social Security income add to its financial appeal.According to the American Community Survey, about 44,000 people aged 60 and older moved to North Carolina in 2022. That number is expected to grow as more residents choose to stay and enjoy...

North Carolina has long been a popular destination for retirees, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, a mild climate, and affordability. From coastal towns to mountain communities, the state offers a wide range of settings for a comfortable next chapter. Low property taxes and an exemption on Social Security income add to its financial appeal.

According to the American Community Survey, about 44,000 people aged 60 and older moved to North Carolina in 2022. That number is expected to grow as more residents choose to stay and enjoy retirement close to home. The ten towns listed below stand out for their combination of accessible healthcare, affordable housing costs, and amenities that make day-to-day living both easy and enjoyable.

New Bern

With its scenic location at the meeting of the Neuse and Trent Rivers, New Bern has long been one of North Carolina’s favorite destinations. The historic downtown is filled with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés that overlook the water. Tryon Palace highlights the city’s colonial heritage and hosts a steady schedule of events, including guided holiday tours.

The North Carolina History Center provides engaging exhibits for those interested in the state’s past. Union Point Park offers waterfront paths and views of downtown, ideal for daily walks. The CarolinaEast Medical Center ensures quality healthcare close to home. With an active arts scene and a lively community calendar, New Bern features the best of coastal culture, cuisine, and comfort.

Mount Airy

Mount Airy is famous for being the inspiration for Mayberry on “The Andy Griffith Show.” The town charms visitors with its nostalgic downtown, vintage diners, and friendly disposition. Retirees enjoy a slower pace of life paired with low housing costs and stunning foothills views.

Walk down Main Street to blissfully pass the time window shopping at antique stores and going down memory lane at the Andy Griffith Museum. Hike the scenic trails at Pilot Mountain State Park to stay connected to nature year-round, or sample local wines along the Yadkin Valley Wine Trail. Mount Airy also boasts the well-regarded Northern Regional Hospital, ensuring convenient access to healthcare. While a sleepy small town on the surface, Mount Airy has a great balance of outdoor recreation, cinematic history, and a relaxed Southern take on daily life.

Eden

Eden sits at the junction of the Dan and Smith Rivers, providing retirees with ample access to serene river walks, kayaking, and fishing. The town’s affordability, with homes averaging around $150,000, makes it one of the state’s most budget-friendly choices.Mayo River State Park supports hiking and camping, Freedom Park hosts community events, and Historic Uptown Eden features local shops and eateries. Healthcare is readily available through UNC Health Rockingham, and the low cost of living allows residents to enjoy the outdoors without financial strain.

Salisbury

Salisbury combines Southern charm with easy access to modern conveniences for those who want to be close to metros like Charlotte but not live in them. Its walkable downtown is packed with art galleries, local theaters, and museums, making it ideal for retirees who enjoy staying active and social.

Visit the nearby North Carolina Transportation Museum, catch a show at Lee Street theatre, or take a sunny stroll around Salisbury City Park. Home prices here hover around $215,000, offering good value in the Piedmont region. With a strong healthcare system and numerous community programs for seniors, Salisbury feels both welcoming and well-connected.

Smithfield

Smithfield offers retirees a quiet lifestyle just a short drive from Raleigh and other major Triangle-area amenities. The town’s cost of living remains moderate, and its proximity to major highways makes travel and access to healthcare easy. Smithfield Community Park offers open green space for morning walks, and the Ava Gardner Museum highlights the life of the beloved local actress. The Carolina Premium Outlets provide convenient shopping and dining options for residents and visitors alike. Smithfield’s combination of small-town friendliness and urban accessibility has made it increasingly popular among retirees seeking a place that offers the best of both small-town and big-city living.

Reidsville

Reidsville’s beautiful natural setting and affordable homes (around $190,000) make it a solid retirement choice in north-central North Carolina. Lake Reidsville Park supports boating and fishing, while the Chinqua-Penn Walking Trail offers a scenic local hike. Restock and shop in the historic Downtown District while admiring the late 18th- and early 19th-century architecture. The town is also home to local clinics and hospitals, offering easy access to care. Its mix of affordability, friendliness, and manageable pace provides retirees with the chance to live comfortably without compromising on amenities.

Thomasville

Known as the “Chair Town,” Thomasville’s proud history in furniture making is still visible in its downtown district. The star attraction in the town is “The Big Chair”, a 30-foot-tall Duncan Phyfe chair that honors the craft of the town’s earlier residents.

Beyond that legacy, the town offers a lively community that is ideal for retirees who enjoy staying busy. The Thomasville Emporium features a wide range of antiques, Lake Thom-A-Lex Park provides quiet recreation, and the Thomasville Farmers Market showcases local produce and crafts.Housing prices remain well below the state average, and the town’s central location provides residents with easy access to healthcare centers in larger cities, such as Greensboro. It’s a comfortable balance between affordability and activity.

Lexington

Lexington is the undisputed “Barbecue Capital of North Carolina,” giving it an eccentric flair. However, it’s also an affordable place to retire, boasting a strong sense of community. High Rock Lake supports fishing and sailing, while annual festivals like the Lexington Barbecue Festival celebrate local culture.

The Davidson County Historical Museum presents more than two centuries of regional history. The cost of living is lower in Lexington than in most metropolitan areas, and residents have access to good healthcare and recreational opportunities nearby. A low cost of living, reliable healthcare access, and an active events calendar make Lexington a strong choice for retirees seeking comfort and connection.

Shelby

Shelby sits by the foothills near the North/South Carolina border and is often overlooked as a good place to live. The town sets itself apart with its vibrant performing arts scene. The Earl Scruggs Center honors Shelby’s musical heritage and explores the life of the banjo legend and the roots of Bluegrass music in the region. Moss Lake Recreation Park provides opportunities for fishing and boating in a calm, scenic setting. Historic Uptown Shelby is an inviting space that is walkable and features the Don Gibson Theatre, which hosts regular live acts from various entertainment genres. With home prices around $200,000 and access to regional hospitals, retirees find Shelby both affordable and enriching.

Lenoir

Lenoir is one of the most affordable towns in the North Carolina mountain region, with a median home value of approximately $165,000. Retirees can enjoy the nearby Caldwell Heritage Museum, which hosts regular exhibits that explore the town's history, dating back to its Native American inhabitants. The city’s Greenway Trails encourage outdoor activity, and short drives lead to scenic spots such as Blowing Rock. Lenoir also offers access to picturesque drives along the Blue Ridge Parkway, a popular destination among scenic road travelers. The town gives residents breathtaking mountain views without high costs or heavy tourist crowds. It’s an excellent fit for retirees who value independence, tranquility, and easy access to nature over big-city amenities.

Retirement the Tar Heel Way

North Carolina offers far more than beautiful scenery; it provides a practical and fulfilling place to spend retirement. The towns highlighted here combine affordability, access to care, and opportunities for recreation and community connection. Whether it’s the riverside views of New Bern, the nostalgic feel of Mount Airy, or the mountain backdrop of Lenoir, each destination has its own appeal.

Choosing where to retire is a personal decision, but North Carolina’s range of options makes it easy to find a setting that fits both lifestyle and budget. For many, the state’s mix of charm, convenience, and quality of life turns retirement into a rewarding new chapter.

Potential Changes to SNAP Benefits Amid Federal Funding Lapse

NEW BERN, N.C. – Craven County Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients may see a disruption in benefits starting in November.Due to the ongoing federal government funding lapse, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has warned states that federal funding for Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits, including the SNAP program, formerly known as food stamps, may not be available in November. This may result in a reduction in the level of benefits or full cessation of benefits until funding is restored.Re...

NEW BERN, N.C. – Craven County Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients may see a disruption in benefits starting in November.

Due to the ongoing federal government funding lapse, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has warned states that federal funding for Food and Nutrition Services (FNS) benefits, including the SNAP program, formerly known as food stamps, may not be available in November. This may result in a reduction in the level of benefits or full cessation of benefits until funding is restored.

Residents may check their balances on the ebtEDGE app or by calling the number on the back of their EBTcard.

The Craven County Department of Social Services was not involved in the decisions leading to the potential disruption in benefits. Benefits are not dispersed directly from the County. Questions about benefits should be directed to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services – (800) 662-7030.

Craven County does not have an alternative benefit program. However, there are numerous food pantries in Craven County, some of which are listed below. This list might not be exhaustive, and operating days and hours may change from time to time, so we have included phone numbers where available.

• The Food Bank of Central and Eastern NC (252) 577-1912 1702 Red Robin Ln., New BernHours: Monday -Friday 8:30-5:00

• Feed Craven

(252) 348-07873317 Highway 70 E, New Bern

Hours: vary - check the website for dates and times feedcraven.org

• Living Bread Holiness Church(252) 671-65151116 S Glenburnie Rd., New Bern

Hours: Tuesday-Thursday 11:30-5:30

• Religious Community Services (RCS)(252) 633-2767 ext. 4015919 George St., New BernHours: Monday – Friday 9:00 – 4:00 by appointment only

• Salvation Armyo (252) 637-2277 option 2o 1402 Rhem St., New Bern

o Hours: Tuesday-Wednesday 1:00-3:00

• Word of God Christian Center(252) 638-34743650 Neuse Blvd., New BernHours: 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month 9:00-12:00

• Antioch Community Outreach

(252) 617-9064762 Antioch Rd., New BernHours: Wednesday 11/12, 12/10, 1/14 4:00-7:00

• The Gathering Place

(252) 515-1080114 Trader St., HavelockHours: Tuesday and Thursday 11:00-1:00

• Havelock Cherry Point Ministerial Outreach

(252) 447-5190

925 E Main St. STE, 20, Havelock

Hours: 10:00- 2:00 Monday – Friday – Havelock residents/Havelock school district only

Additionally, residents are encouraged to view Craven County’s Community Resource Guide at https://www.cravencountync.gov/2227/Community-Resource-Guide. This guide serves as a directory for information on community health resources and includes food pantry information.

Craven County understands the importance of these benefits, and we will share updates as soon as additional guidance is available.

For more information on FNS benefits and federal shutdown impacts, visit www.ncdhhs.gov/fns

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S IN NEW BERN RAISES $57,000

NEW BERN, N.C. – Oct. 22, 2025 – More than 300 area residents participated in this Walk to End Alzheimer’s – New Bern in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease at. So far, the event has raised more than $57,000 to fund research, reduce risk, increase early detection, and provide quality care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. Just shy of their goal, the community hopes to raise $60,000 by the end of the year.Walking for...

NEW BERN, N.C. – Oct. 22, 2025 – More than 300 area residents participated in this Walk to End Alzheimer’s – New Bern in the fight to end Alzheimer’s disease at. So far, the event has raised more than $57,000 to fund research, reduce risk, increase early detection, and provide quality care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia. Just shy of their goal, the community hopes to raise $60,000 by the end of the year.

Walking for Mamie’s Girls is the current top fundraising team for this year’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s, raising $9,410. The other top fundraising teams currently include Sound Fitness Alzheimer’s Advengers ($6,458) and Steps for Strength Rotary Rocks ($4,285).

The Association is keeping up the momentum and continuing to raise critical funds and awareness with a goal to raise $60,000 by the end of the year. Walk Day may have passed, but donations are still being accepted through Dec. 31 at act.alz.org/NewBern.

“We are deeply grateful to all the dedicated Walk participants, volunteers and sponsors who made the 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer’s in Craven County a tremendous success,” said Christine John-Fuller, executive director of the Alzheimer’s Association - Eastern North Carolina Chapter. “The funds raised will help continue to advance disease research, while also providing critical care and support to individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other dementia.”

On Walk day, participants honored those affected by Alzheimer’s with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony — a mission-focused experience that signifies our solidarity in the fight against the disease. The colors of the Promise Garden flowers represent people’s connection to Alzheimer’s — their personal reasons to end the disease.

The day included fun, all-ages entertainment, and family-friendly music. New Bern resident and Award-winning actor, Rob Morgan, emceed the event. As part of a recent film project where Morgan plays a man with dementia, he worked with Alzheimer’s Association advocates from N.C. who shared their dementia journeys to help him prepare for the role. Morgan, a perennial festival darling, is well known for his scene-stealing work in the Oscar-nominated Mudbound, A24’s The Last Black Man in San Francisco and Warner Bros's Just Mercy. He was named one of the 25 greatest actors of the century by The New York Times.

More than 7 million Americans are living with Alzheimer's disease – a leading cause of death in the United States. Additionally, nearly 12 million family members and friends provide care to people living with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. In North Carolina alone, there are more than 210,000 people living with the disease and 381,000 caregivers. Craven County has an Alzheimer's prevalence rate of 11.8% in its age 65 and older population.

Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®

The Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Since 1989, the Alzheimer’s Association® mobilized millions of Americans in the Alzheimer’s Association Memory Walk®; now the Alzheimer’s Association is continuing to lead the way with Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Together, we can end Alzheimer’s.

Alzheimer's Association®

The Alzheimer’s Association is a worldwide voluntary health organization dedicated to Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Its mission is to lead the way to end Alzheimer's and all other dementia — by accelerating global research, driving risk reduction and early detection, and maximizing quality care and support. Visit alz.org.

About the Alzheimer’s Association - Eastern North Carolina Chapter:The Eastern North Carolina Chapter provides patient and family services, information and referral, education, and advocacy in 51 eastern North Carolina counties. It offers opportunities to get involved and to make a difference, in addition to a variety of services including: a 24/7 Helpline, support groups, educational programs and care consultations. For more information about Alzheimer's disease, or the Alzheimer’s Association - Eastern North Carolina Chapter, visit alz.org/nc or call 800-272-3900. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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