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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 Cheshire, CT

Home Care Cheshire, CT

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 Cheshire 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 Cheshire, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Cheshire, CT

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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

“Always Best Care Senior Services have been wonderful to work with, they sent us Michael, Michael has now been caring for my Dad for a few months now, totally reliable and such a peace of mind for the family that he's there. Dad just loves him. I don't think we could have found a better fit for Dad. Michael cares about Dad as if he was family. Thank you for making this time in Dad's life so much happier and giving his family such peace of mind. Linda Lee”

Linda L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Five stars is not enough to recommend the service Always Best Care provides!! Our situation was quite desperate when I contacted them to provide a live in care giver for my mother in law. Denise, more than understood our situation when I called. I contacted ABC earlier in the day and by evening, she was at my mother in law’s home and matched us with a wonderful care giver! Rosina immediately bonded with my mother in law!! The professionalism and compassion Rosina showed was beyond measure. She never left her side and kept us well informed as my mother in law was unfortunately and quickly approaching end of life…..Rosina even stayed with us through the process as my mother in law left her home one last time…….Much Appreciation from The Cotrona Family!!”

Karyn C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“A sincere, heartfelt "thank you" to Sky and Ruth and the team at ABC. Sky and Ruth were amazing, patient, kind, and caring with my father during a very difficult time at the end of his life. I know my dad appreciated it, and the entire family says a big "THANK YOU" for the tremendous care that you provided. Having your help made things so much easier on my mother and the family.”

Christopher M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Outstanding organization and staff! I have had the privilege to work with Cynthia Montano and to witness the care, attention and professionalism she provides to her clients. Cynthia represents her company with pride and truly provides services to her clients with their needs above all else. Anyone in need of services for their loved one will be fortunate, pleased and grateful to work with Cynthia Montano and Always Best Care.”

LEWIS C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would like to say how wonderful Carol May is with my uncle. She is very caring and understanding with my 94 year old single uncle. Not an easy job , but she is able to help him in so many ways. Carol is very reliable, trust worthy, and compassionate. We are lucky to have her! I would also like to give Tia in the office a huge compliment! She is really on her game if an issue comes up she is on top of things. It is hard to find good help, she foresee problems and handles things efficiently. Our experience has been very positive!”

Stacey H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I just wanted to take a moment and tell you that we so much appreciate Yolanda. She comes to our home weekly for light cleaning and she is a breath of fresh air. Every Friday she brightens our home with her presence. Yolanda also does a wonderful job taking care Of our home. Please let her know how much we appreciate her. Brad Nelson”

Brad N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I’m leaving a five star review for Nellie. She is the most caring caregiver I have ever worked with my husband is disabled and she is so kind and treats him and both of us like family. She makes sure he eats properly cleans, and spend special time with my husband. You are very, very lucky to have such a great worker I know because I work with other agencies for my mother and you can’t find someone who cares for someone like Nellie does. She should be recognized and rewarded for her efforts. She is never late never calls and is always positive and friendly. I look forward to seeing her every day and consider her family, thank you Beth and Scott Albertson”

Bethanne P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would recommend Always Best Care to anyone looking to set up home care for their loved ones. Within 1 hour of initial contact, Denise was at my home to gain an understanding of my needs. The very next day, Sharon began working with me and I couldn't be more pleased. Sharon is friendly and helpful and I will miss her now that I no longer need home care services. If you are looking for a home care agency that assures skilled aides and good communication and oversight, look no further than Always Best Care!”

Donna J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been wonderful to work with , very prompt and responsive. Angela , my mom's home health aid has been so patient and caring - just what we were hoping and looking for! Would highly recommend!!”

Amy D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We had the most wonderful experience with Always Best Care. Cynthia was an answer to our prayers ????”

Mollys D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am so appreciative for the time, patience, and insight that Cynthia Montano provided to my brother and me in helping us transition our mother from independent to assisted living. Cynthia educated us about the various “models” of assisted living communities in an effort to ascertain the appropriate level of support required for our mom. She was sensitive to finances and lifestyle preference. Cynthia has a network of relationships among assisted living facilities, and always did hands on research before presenting us with options to tour. She is truly a professional. Cynthia has generously made herself available to brainstorm, as we begin to think about eventual next steps. Thank you, Cynthia.”

Cynthia N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They help me out a lot and things I can't do, they help me. I like that they are prompt and always on time.”

Robert M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This review is for Bernadette. She is exceptionally competent. You can feel how caring she is for her patient and for the entire family. Self directed.”

AMS
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TESTIMONIALS

“This review is for Bernadette. She is exceptionally competent. You can feel how caring she is for her patient and for the entire family. Self directed.”

Ann M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We are very happy with my sister's companion, Anne Sumner, and the services that Always Best Care provides!”

Roberta L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Tosha, There are no words accurately quantify my family’s appreciation for you. You are undoubtedly the kindest, caring, compassionate competent care giver there is. You’ve treated my father and my whole family with a loving heart. We will forever be grateful for making this difficult time easier. We love having you a part of our family.”

Frank V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider His caregiver is wonderful. She helps keep him from being depressed and she's always asking if he took his medications. I would like to see more consistent communication.”

Scott A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider They've helped us the most by always calling and checking in on us. I like that they're always able to find someone for us.”

William J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider When my caregiver was sick or going on vacation, they reached out to me. I like their caregivers they send.”

Andrew R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We are 3 weeks into working with this agency for homecare for my dad. There were a few bumps in the road, but we have hit the jackpot with two of our caregivers. Melissa Pericas and Jordene have been amazing! My mother has been struggling with having strangers in her home and letting someone else take care of her husband, but these two lovely women have melded into the family and put her completely at ease. They are both very experienced and are doing and amazing job. My mom is able to put the caregiving into their capable hands and focus on being his wife and spend valuable time with him. These ladies both deserve 5 stars!! I rated the agency with 4 stars because we had some scheduling issues in the beginning and had one caregiver that was problematic, but he was removed from our schedule as soon as I reported the issue.”

Sherry D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Our caregiver Anne Sumner is more than a passionate, compassionate, caring, dependable and dedicated professional. She quickly became a family member and friend.”

t M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider He is very difficult, but he is getting better. He is happier than he has ever been. I like that they are very responsive.”

Bernard A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Cynthia Montano is the amazing from Always Best Care. Cynthia has helped my parents and us with this transition process. She has been wonderful explaining everything. If we had questions or just needed to talk about what is going on with the parents she was there to help. She goes above and beyond. She has help us tremendously. I feel blessed for having Cynthia during this time. Our family would like to say thank you for everything. We couldn't have done it without her.”

Deborah M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I just want to thank ABC agency for allowing us our angel giver which is what we call her. Shay is a life saver without her I'll be running like a chicken with my head cut off. She has stepped in and saved the day numerous times between changing her schedule to work with ours, to even making sure Steve visits his wife grave. We appreciate her please don't take her from us steve would be devastated. She's amazing”

Stephanie B.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Cheshire, CT?

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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 Cheshire, CT

Types of Elderly Care in Cheshire, CT

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 Cheshire, CT
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 Cheshire, CT
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 Roaring Brook 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 Cheshire, CT
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 Butcher Bros Steakhouse or visit Castle Craig, 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 Cheshire, CT

Benefits of Home Care in Cheshire, CT

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

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 Cheshire, CT

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 CT'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 Cheshire, CT

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 Cheshire, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

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

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

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 Cheshire, CT

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 Cheshire, CT

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:

  • Elim Park
  • Marbridge Assisted Living Memory Care
  • Cheshire House
  • Assisted Living Home Care Services
  • Civita Care Center at Cheshire
  • The Village at East Farms
Home Care Cheshire, CT

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 Cheshire, CT

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced 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 Cheshire, CT 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 Cheshire, CT

Latest News in Cheshire, CT

Where To Pick Pumpkins In Cheshire This Fall

Pumpkin season is here. Find out where to get the pick of the patch near Cheshire.CHESHIRE, CT — Heading out to a patch or field to pick the best or biggest pumpkin isn’t just about finding the perfect Halloween jack-o-lantern. It’s a seasonal activity blending nature, tradition and community, and there are several places around Cheshire to create lasting memories with family and friends.Many pumpkin patches and fields offer complementary activities like hay rides, corn mazes and games for the kids. Picking ...

Pumpkin season is here. Find out where to get the pick of the patch near Cheshire.

CHESHIRE, CT — Heading out to a patch or field to pick the best or biggest pumpkin isn’t just about finding the perfect Halloween jack-o-lantern. It’s a seasonal activity blending nature, tradition and community, and there are several places around Cheshire to create lasting memories with family and friends.

Many pumpkin patches and fields offer complementary activities like hay rides, corn mazes and games for the kids. Picking your own pumpkin also is a good way to support the local farmers who grow them.

Whether you plan to carve a jack-o’-lantern or just add some festive flair to your stoop, there are plenty of places to pick up a pumpkin near Cheshire. Here are a few of our favorites:

Keep in mind that carving and baking pumpkins aren’t the same. The former are grown in fields to be large, more vibrantly colored, and relatively hollow. The watery flesh doesn’t have the same flavor found in baking pumpkins, which tend to be smaller, have thicker, harder-to-carve walls and sweeter flesh. For those, you’ll probably need to head to the grocery store.

Pumpkins for carving should appear sturdy and clean. Remember, this is the pumpkin that will be front and center on the porch for the Halloween season. Here are some tips for carving a perfect jack-o’-lantern from Warren Nash on YouTube, who shows a step-by-step process to make the perfect carve.

Pumpkin carving kits will go a long way in getting what you need. They typically include saws, a scooper, a drill and multiple patterns.

If you're looking for the items individually around the house, here's what you could use:

Steps

North Haven football lives up to challenge, plays big to battle way past Cheshire

NORTH HAVEN — Tony Sagnella, from time to time, ribs his North Haven football team about their stature.“I tell them they look pretty ordinary,” Sagnella deadpanned. “Sometimes I tease them and go, ‘Where’s our varsity,’ because we’re not big up front.”The Nighthawks defense had to play exceptionally tough on Friday night, giving up a lot of size to Cheshire’s offensive linemen who, once they get to college, can easily find jobs as bouncers.North Haven spe...

NORTH HAVEN — Tony Sagnella, from time to time, ribs his North Haven football team about their stature.

“I tell them they look pretty ordinary,” Sagnella deadpanned. “Sometimes I tease them and go, ‘Where’s our varsity,’ because we’re not big up front.”

The Nighthawks defense had to play exceptionally tough on Friday night, giving up a lot of size to Cheshire’s offensive linemen who, once they get to college, can easily find jobs as bouncers.

North Haven spent much of its night on defense but made enough stops to beat the Rams 35-21 in a Southern Connecticut Conference game at Vanacore Field.

“They were bigger than us,” Nighthawks senior co-captain Nate Eggerling said. “Pretty much every team we face is bigger than us.”

Eggerling scored on a 59-yard interception return with 1 minute, 34 seconds left to ice the game for North Haven (3-1, 2-1).

“We like to accept that challenge,” Eggerling continued. “(Cheshire’s) line is really good, really big, but we just put our heads down and work.”

Ordinarily, the Nighthawks use their Single Wing offense to gnaw away at a defense a few rushing yards at a time, eating up clock and allowing their many two-way players to pound away at a defense rather than be pounded on.

North Haven scored too quickly to do that against the Rams (2-2, 2-1), though. It needed just 12 plays to score four touchdowns, all run in by sophomore Artie McCormack IV (12 carries, 180 yards).

The Nighthawks finished with 34 plays for 349 yards.

Cheshire, meanwhile, was the methodical team, running 68 plays for 305 yards.

Junior Michael Chopak ran 30 times for 115 yards and two touchdowns for the Rams while senior Jack Rosier completed 16 of 24 passes for 133 yards with a touchdown.

Cheshire converted four times on fourth down in the first half alone.

The game was tied at 14 when the Rams went for it again on fourth-and-1 at their own 45 early in the third quarter.

North Haven senior Emeka Dimpka got through the Rams’ offensive line and tackled Chopak for a 1-yard loss.

McCormack ran for an 8-yard touchdown to put the Nighthawks ahead for good with 6:35 left in the third quarter.

“If they believe in themselves and each other, play hard, and they continue to work in practice, they can do something extraordinary,” Sagnella said. “For us to beat Cheshire is an extraordinary outcome for those guys cause of where we were coming from. Not too many of them played a year ago on the varsity level.”

Player of the Game

Artie McCormack IV, North Haven: The Nighthawks defense was the game’s big story, but they still needed points, and the sophomore kept providing them.

Quotable

“They’ve got big guys, big line. Even their receivers and backs are physical. So we just had to stay in it and just keep fighting every play.” — Artie McCormack IV, North Haven.

North Haven 35, Cheshire 21

(At Vanacore Field, North Haven)

CHESHIRE 7 7 0 7—21NORTH HAVEN 14 0 14 7—35

NH—Artie McCormack IV 12 run (Eli Reynolds kick)C—Michael Chopak 7 run (Tim Reinhard kick)NH—McCormack 74 run (Reynolds kick)C—Chopak 8 run (Reinhard kick)NH—McCormack 8 run (Reynolds kick)NH—McCormack 51 run (Reynolds kick)C—Jacob Trocchi 3 pass from Jack Roiser (Reinhard kick)NH—Nate Eggerling 59 interception return (Reynolds kick)Team records: NH 3-1 (2-1 SCC); C 2-2 (2-1).

Cheshire High Among Michaels Jewelers Cup Award Winners: CIAC

Cheshire High School is among the 28 high schools in CT to be honored with a Michaels Jewelers Achievement Cup Award, according to the CIAC.CHESHIRE, CT — Cheshire High School is among 28 Connecticut high schools being honored with a 2024-2025 Michaels Jewelers Achievement Cup Award by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC).Cheshire will be formally recognized during the CIAC’s 19th Annual Sportsmanship Conference on Oct. 7.Schools that are part of the CIAC’s Class Act program can ...

Cheshire High School is among the 28 high schools in CT to be honored with a Michaels Jewelers Achievement Cup Award, according to the CIAC.

CHESHIRE, CT — Cheshire High School is among 28 Connecticut high schools being honored with a 2024-2025 Michaels Jewelers Achievement Cup Award by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC).

Cheshire will be formally recognized during the CIAC’s 19th Annual Sportsmanship Conference on Oct. 7.

Schools that are part of the CIAC’s Class Act program can be considered for the Michaels Jewelers Achievement Cup Award. The Michaels Jewelers Cup Committee recognized these exemplary athletic programs for their willingness to subscribe to the Class Act Sportsmanship standards, empowering students to take an active role in their school climate, and their continued support for community service.

The 2024-2025 Michaels Jewelers Cup Award Winners:

Academy of Aerospace & Engineering, Academy of Computer Science & Engineering, Academy of International Studies, Academy of Science & Innovation, Amity Regional High School, Bethel High School, Bloomfield High School, Brookfield High School, Bunnell High School, Cheshire High School, Danbury High School, Daniel Hand High School, East Catholic High School, East Lyme High School, Ellis Technical High School, Joel Barlow High School, Jonathan Law High School, Lyme-Old Lyme High School, New Fairfield High School, New Milford High School, Newtown High School, Norwalk High School, Parish Hill High School, Simsbury High School, Westbrook High School, Weston High School, Wethersfield High School, and Wolcott Technical High School.

The CIAC also noted that Simsbury and Westbrook are being honored for their sportsmanship efforts for a ninth consecutive year.

Brookfield and Cheshire are being recognized with a Michaels Jewelers Achievement Cup for the nine time in 10 years, while Bloomfield is being honored for the eighth time in nine years. Joel Barlow, Lyme-Old Lyme and Weston are being honored for the seventh consecutive year.

New Student Ambassador Welcomed To Cheshire Education Foundation Board

The high school student has joined the Cheshire Education Foundation board of directors, officials announced.CHESHIRE, CT — Cheshire High School junior Lyla Dykeman has joined the Cheshire Education Foundation (CEF) board of directors, officials announced Monday.Dykeman will serve with senior Emma Sink as the two representatives from all Cheshire schools on the board.“Our board values the ambassadors’ input and perspective on how the enhanced learning initiatives that are funded by the Cheshire Educat...

The high school student has joined the Cheshire Education Foundation board of directors, officials announced.

CHESHIRE, CT — Cheshire High School junior Lyla Dykeman has joined the Cheshire Education Foundation (CEF) board of directors, officials announced Monday.

Dykeman will serve with senior Emma Sink as the two representatives from all Cheshire schools on the board.

“Our board values the ambassadors’ input and perspective on how the enhanced learning initiatives that are funded by the Cheshire Education Foundation impact their peers in school,” Derek Gromko, CEF board president, said in a news release.

Read more from the news release below:

Lyla Dykeman is a student senator and a peer advocate at Cheshire High. She is the director of the Ramland Sportscast, a member of the girls’ volleyball and softball teams, and she is the manager of the CHS boys’ hockey team.

When asked if she has a career path in mind, she said, “I’d like to work in sports management or the sports media.”

Lyla says she sees joining the CEF board as a big opportunity.

“I hope to learn more about the foundation and how it all works,” she said. “I want to develop more leadership and life skills and learn how I can help others.”

Emma Sink is now in her second year as a student ambassador to the education foundation. She is an A-Team Ambassador, helping lead freshman orientation and other various tours at the high school.

Emma is a member of the blood drive club, unified sports, Rampage student newspaper, unified theater, and she is active in the Best Buddies program, serving students with disabilities.

The Cheshire Education Foundation has invited student ambassadors to join each board meeting since the 2019-2020 school year. These representatives are recommended by teachers and guidance counselors and are presented to CEF board members by Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jeff Solan.

“These students have the opportunity to learn and experience how nonprofit organizations operate as they participate in every area of our operations,” CEF board president Derek Gromko said.

The Cheshire Education Foundation has been raising private funds to enhance the programs and offerings of the Cheshire Public Schools since 1995.

Cheshire retail center, soon home to Whole Foods and Shake Shack, sets grand opening date

The owner and operator of The Shops at Stone Bridge retail center, which is currently under construction in Cheshire, has set Dec. 13 as a grand opening date for the shopping complex.Representatives of Florida-based Regency Centers revealed the news Saturday at the Cheshire Fall Festival, where the company had an information booth. A total of 10 stores will be open on or before Dec. 13, according to representatives of the company who were running the booth, distributing information cards with the news.The stores that are schedu...

The owner and operator of The Shops at Stone Bridge retail center, which is currently under construction in Cheshire, has set Dec. 13 as a grand opening date for the shopping complex.

Representatives of Florida-based Regency Centers revealed the news Saturday at the Cheshire Fall Festival, where the company had an information booth. A total of 10 stores will be open on or before Dec. 13, according to representatives of the company who were running the booth, distributing information cards with the news.

The stores that are scheduled to be open on or before the grand opening are Barnes & Noble, Shake Shack, Chipotle. Birdcode, Blender Bar, Chipotle, Choicepet, Club Pilates, GoHealth Urgent Care, Saybrook Home and a Verizon phone store. Officials at Saybrook Home, which is based in Old Saybrook. recently confirmed to CT Insider that they expect to be open by late October or early November.

Chipotle could be one of the first businesses to open up in the retail center. Mohit Patel, a communications analyst with Chipotle, said the restaurant will open "in the next few weeks."

"It (will feature) the brand's signature Chipotlane, a drive-thru pick-up lane that allows guests to conveniently pick up digital orders without leaving their cars," Patel said in an e-mail to CT Insider.

He said Chipotle currently has 10 restaurants in Connecticut, with an average of about 30 workers at each location.

Other retailers that have already committed to opening in The Shops at Stone Bridge that were listed on the information cards as "coming soon" to the retail center are 90's Nails, Blu Pointe, Chase Bank, Harvey & Lewis Opticians, J. Crew Factory, Mercato Italian Kitchen and Bar, Paris Baguette, Starbucks, T.J. Maxx and Whole Foods Market. Company representatives at the Cheshire festival said those tenants will open after the grand opening, either in late December or sometime earlier next year.

CT Insider confirmed on Friday that upscale furniture retailer Lovesac will be opening in The Shops at Stone Bridge sometime early in 2026.

Several of the tenants of The Shops at Stone Bridge, like Chase Bank and Blender Bar, already have locations in other parts of Cheshire and are opening second locations there to serve customers in the northern part of the town as well as consumers from neighboring communities.

The new retail center is part of a mixed-use development at the intersection of Route 10 and Interstate 691, near the northern border with Southington.

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