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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 Philadelphia, PA

Home Care Philadelphia, PA

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 Edgar Allan Pоe National Historic Site in Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Philadelphia, PA

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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

“Alway Best Care is always best!”

Errol W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Just Started Working For Always Best Care In Philadelphia Last Week And I Love My Job So Far & My Clients. I Love How Flexible My Schedule Is Too. I'd Highly Recommend Getting A Job Here ☺”

No P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Just Started Working For Always Best Care In Philadelphia Last Week And I Love My Job So Far & My Clients. I Love How Flexible My Schedule Is Too. I'd Highly Recommend Getting A Job Here”

Carri A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Just Started Working For Always Best Care In Philadelphia Last Week And I Love My Job So Far & My Clients. I Love How Flexible My Schedule Is Too. I'd Highly Recommend Getting A Job Here”

Carrianne W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I couldn’t thank this Company enough for the services my Father had, it’s difficult to trust others yet Always Best Care of Philadelphia did it with ease. We happily recommend them to our family and friends. Bryant and Co. truly care as if it was their own family. God Bless and May all your Staff be safe, they are in my prayers.”

Barbara L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The highlights for me is The boss man Bryant Greene, and most of his awesome staff. Mr. Greene, his brother Al Billz and staff always looked out for me even when I was ill. I love them and Always Best Care to the moon and back!”

Kia M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“first of all the owner Brian Greene is an amazing person to work for/with. Hes very compassionate to his workers and staff. If we need help and there's no caregiver available. Brian will step in. We also give our clients the best care possible. So proud to say Brian just opened up another office in Delaware. Doing an amazing job. I started work with this agency in 2012 when my mom became I'll. A good environment. I definitely would recommend this place of employment.”

Betty W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“first of all the owner Brian Greene is an amazing person to work for/with. Hes very compassionate to his workers and staff. If we need help and there's no caregiver available. Brian will step in. We also give our clients the best care possible. So proud to say Brian just opened up another office in Delaware. Doing an amazing job. I started work with this agency in 2012 when my mom became I'll. A good environment. I definitely would recommend this place of employment.”

Roger B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Walked in to ask a few questions, and was kindly greeted as well as my inquiries were satisfyingly met. ????”

Jonathan W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provides excellent personal service for my Mom. They are always in contact about changes or concerns. They truly do care and it shows. They live the Always Best Care name every day. I would recommend them for sure.”

christopher G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services of Philadelphia abides by the highest standards in the provision of in-home care.”

Sheila R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been tremendous. The caregivers are well trained and very considerate. Thanks to my infirmity, I have unique care needs but ABC has been able to provide that care and even go above and beyond in their efforts to care for me. I don’t know what I would do without them. If you’re in need of care, this is the agency to call.”

James M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best is truly a company that distinguishes itself from the other companies in its personal attention to make the client totally satisfied. Excellent communication is another reason you feel so secure. I never had a moment of frustration or worry. I can't recommend David and his staff enough!!! Karen in Plymouth Meeting”

Karen G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Love what I heard about the company. Champion Care is important for seniors.”

Caprice C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services are a group of compassionate care givers and professionals. Use them for all your personal needs Senior or younger. They get the job done!!!”

Sandra R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I appreciate ABC of Bristol. They served me and my friend, Helen, at very difficult time. The office staff, social workers, and the aides were professional, caring, and reliable. Donna you are awesome....keep up the great work!!!! I would recommend this service to anyone.”

Tanya R.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Philadelphia, PA?

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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 Philadelphia, PA

Types of Elderly Care in Philadelphia, PA

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 Philadelphia, PA
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 Philadelphia, PA
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 Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA
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 Volvér or visit Powel 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 Philadelphia, PA

Benefits of Home Care in Philadelphia, PA

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 Philadelphia, PA, 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 Philadelphia, PA

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 PA'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 Philadelphia, PA

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 Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA

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 Philadelphia, PA

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:

  • Atria Center City
  • Simpson House
  • Fountain View at Logan Square
  • Deer Meadows Retirement Community
  • The Terrace at Chestnut Hill
  • Oakwood Residence
Home Care Philadelphia, PA

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 Philadelphia, PA

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 Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA

Latest News in Philadelphia, PA

Philadelphia launches anti-vaping campaign as new state law takes effect

Philadelphia health officials are taking aim at teen vaping with a new campaign called "Don't Get Finessed," as Pennsylvania begins enforcing new restrictions on the sale of certain vape and e-cigarette products.The Philadelphia Department of Public Health hopes the campaign will educate young people about the dangers of vaping and discourage them from using nicotine products.According to the city, about 19% of Philadelphia youth currently use e-cigarettes, while 38% have tried them.At Girard College in Philade...

Philadelphia health officials are taking aim at teen vaping with a new campaign called "Don't Get Finessed," as Pennsylvania begins enforcing new restrictions on the sale of certain vape and e-cigarette products.

The Philadelphia Department of Public Health hopes the campaign will educate young people about the dangers of vaping and discourage them from using nicotine products.

According to the city, about 19% of Philadelphia youth currently use e-cigarettes, while 38% have tried them.

At Girard College in Philadelphia, 12th grader Harmony Ellis said vaping remains a problem among students, even with measures in place to discourage it.

"We have vape detectors in our school bathroom, but students simply don't care about them. They vape anyway," Ellis said.

Ellis said she has watched the issue grow throughout her years at school.

Dr. Samara Jinks-Cheng, an adolescent addiction doctor at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, said vaping has become more common among young people than traditional cigarettes.

"I don't see any young people that smoke cigarettes, they think it's gross. No kid would smoke a cigarette, they vape, so I noticed the numbers are not actually reflecting nicotine vaping use," Jinks-Cheng said.

The city's anti-vaping campaign comes as Pennsylvania begins enforcing Act 57, a law restricting which electronic nicotine delivery systems can be sold in the state.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 19, retailers are prohibited from selling vape and e-cigarette products that are not listed in the Pennsylvania Office of the Attorney General's official ENDS Directory.

At Girard Mini Mart, owner Rosa Aguilera said the new rules could mean a significant loss of revenue, particularly after the store recently removed its gaming machines.

"I'm affected because you lose a lot of money," Aguilera said.

Aguilera said she has always checked customers' identification and has never sold vaping products to minors. She believes adults should be allowed to make their own decisions about nicotine use.

Meanwhile, the Pennsylvania House recently passed legislation that would impose fines on store owners who illegally sell vaping products to minors.

Philadelphia health officials hope the "Don't Get Finessed" campaign will work alongside state restrictions to reduce vaping among young people.

Dr. Palak Raval-Nelson, with the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, described the city's approach as a combination of education and enforcement.

"We do education, and then if education is not working, we use the fullest extent of the law enforcement," Raval-Nelson said.

For students like Ellis, the hope is that more young people will recognize the risks of vaping and encourage their friends to quit.

This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC Philadelphia. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC Philadelphia journalist edited the article for publication.

New England Patriots Urged to Swing Big Trade for Eagles 3X Pro Bowler

The New England Patriots suffered a frustrating 30-24 loss to the Chicago Bears on Thursday in their Week 7 matchup.This was undoubtedly a bad loss for the Patriots. With it, they now have a 4-3 record and squandered an opportunity to get closer to the Buffalo Bills in the AFC East standings.With how up-and-down the Patriots have played this season, it would not be surprising if they actively look to add to their roster. They should be among the league's most active teams leading up to the NFL trade deadline. This is especially...

The New England Patriots suffered a frustrating 30-24 loss to the Chicago Bears on Thursday in their Week 7 matchup.

This was undoubtedly a bad loss for the Patriots. With it, they now have a 4-3 record and squandered an opportunity to get closer to the Buffalo Bills in the AFC East standings.

With how up-and-down the Patriots have played this season, it would not be surprising if they actively look to add to their roster. They should be among the league's most active teams leading up to the NFL trade deadline. This is especially so when noting that they have some serious roster needs to address.

Due to this, the Patriots are now being connected to a notable trade candidate from the Philadelphia Eagles.

New England Patriots Urged to Trade for Eagles Star

The Athletic's Daniel Popper recently released his latest trade board. Philadelphia Eagles star left guard Landon Dickerson was among the players listed.

Popper then named the Patriots as one of the best trade fits for Dickerson ahead of the deadline.

"Dickerson has battled numerous injuries in his career. When he is somewhere close to healthy, though, he is a productive player. That was evident as recently as the Eagles' playoff loss to the 49ers last season. The Eagles would take on $26.2 million in dead money in 2027 if they traded Dickerson before the deadline," Popper wrote. "Best fits: Broncos, Patriots, Vikings, Raiders, Packers."

The Patriots' offensive line could use a boost. Because of this, it makes sense that they are being viewed as a fit for Dickerson. He would certainly have the potential to improve their roster if acquired. This is because he is a three-time Pro Bowler who plays a strong game.

However, it is also important to note that Dickerson has been working through a knee bruise and has not played since Week 1. He also recently suffered a pectoral muscle injury and is questionable for Philadelphia's Week 7 game against the Dallas Cowboys. Thus, the Patriots may want to wait and see how his recovery goes before potentially targeting him.

Dickerson Would Be Nice Addition for Patriots If He Stayed Healthy

With Dickerson being a high-impact player when healthy, it would be significant if the Patriots acquired him from Philadelphia. He is a three-time Pro Bowler and also has a Super Bowl ring on his resume. Thus, he could be a very good fit on a Patriots team looking to be contenders.

However, if the Patriots acquired Dickerson, they would need him to get and stay healthy. That is where a potential trade for the six-year NFL veteran would come with some risk for New England.

This article was originally published on HEAVY

The post New England Patriots Urged to Swing Big Trade for Eagles 3X Pro Bowler appeared first on HEAVY.

USACE Philadelphia District honors historic dredge McFarland

PHILADELPHIA --The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Philadelphia District honored the Dredge McFarland during a farewell ceremony Oct. 23 at Fort Mifflin, marking the completion of the vessel’s final operational mission after nearly six decades of service.Current and former crew members, members of the McFarland family, maritime partners, and stakeholders gathered along the Fort Mifflin pier to recognize the vessel and the civilian mariners who operated it on the Delaware River and waterways across the nation.“We...

PHILADELPHIA --

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Philadelphia District honored the Dredge McFarland during a farewell ceremony Oct. 23 at Fort Mifflin, marking the completion of the vessel’s final operational mission after nearly six decades of service.

Current and former crew members, members of the McFarland family, maritime partners, and stakeholders gathered along the Fort Mifflin pier to recognize the vessel and the civilian mariners who operated it on the Delaware River and waterways across the nation.

“We are joined by an extraordinary gathering of leaders, partners and friends whose presence speaks volumes about what this ship means to our region and our country,” said USACE Philadelphia District Commander Lt. Col. Ryan A. Baum.

The ceremony incorporated Army ceremonial protocol and maritime tradition. The watch was secured, and the USACE distinguishing flag was lowered and presented to family members of the vessel’s namesake, Arthur McFarland. Later in the ceremony, crew members were rung ashore, and a final whistle sounded in tribute to the vessel’s service.

“We honor the ship today. We honor the skill that kept her ready, the families who stood behind her crew, and the generations of mariners who gave her name its meaning,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Mr. D. Lee Forsgren.

With her final mission complete, the McFarland entered a pierside standby status at Fort Mifflin. The vessel will remain there while the Army Corps’ medium-class hopper dredge, the Donnelly, is under construction.

The McFarland was launched in 1966 at Bethlehem Steel’s Sparrows Point yard near Baltimore and completed in 1967.

McFarland Namesake

The dredge was named for Arthur McFarland, a respected U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredging authority who began his career as an engineman, rose to dredge master and later became one of the Corps’ foremost leaders in the field.

Over a 40-year career, Arthur McFarland oversaw the design, construction and maintenance of dredging plants in the New Orleans and Galveston districts before joining the Office of the Chief of Engineers in Washington, D.C. When the Corps selected his name for the new hopper dredge, it honored both his technical expertise and his lifelong contributions to advancing the Army Corps’ dredging mission.

The farewell carried special meaning for the McFarland family. At the vessel’s 1966 launch and christening, Arthur McFarland’s daughter, Alice McFarland Wilson, served as sponsor, while Mrs. Arthur McFarland served as matron of honor. Sandra Wilson, Arthur McFarland’s granddaughter, attended the original ceremony as a child and returned to Fort Mifflin for the farewell. She was joined by her sister, Margo London; Phil London and Laura London, Arthur McFarland’s great-grandchildren; and James McFarland, his great-nephew.

“It was a wonderful event,” said Margo London. “We’re so glad we could be here. It was very touching.”

Legacy of Service with Three Districts

Long before the McFarland became a familiar presence on the Delaware River, the vessel served under the jurisdiction of the Galveston District and supported navigation work along the Texas coast. Its design allowed it to place dredged material through bottom discharge, sidecasting or direct pumpout, giving the Corps flexibility to meet different navigation requirements.

The McFarland was reassigned from the Jacksonville District to the Philadelphia District in 1982 and became a key part of the effort to maintain safe, reliable navigation on the Delaware River and Bay. Over its service life, the vessel dredged more than 100 million cubic yards of material and completed 11 Ready Reserve missions after entering this status in 2010.

“Ask someone who served here what they remember, and you may hear about a difficult assignment or an emergency response,” said McFarland Captain Mike Hass. “But you will also hear about the people.”

Those people stood at the center of the farewell. McFarland crews worked long deployments, navigated busy waterways and answered urgent calls that sometimes extended beyond dredging. In 2001, crew members helped extinguish a shipboard fire during an eight-hour response in the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet. In 2012, the crew stopped dredging near Morehead City, North Carolina, to rescue a boater in distress.

These incidents reflected the readiness, versatility and professionalism that defined McFarland crews throughout the vessel’s service.

As McFarland enters standby status, the Army Corps plans to preserve the vessel’s legacy through documentation, videography, artifact curation and public interpretation.

How UCLA Basketball Answered Biggest Concern Against Cal Baptist

UCLA may have eliminated a potential concern ahead of the season.Throughout the offseason, there's been one area that has been a concern for this UCLA team, and specifically this frontcourt.However, the Bruins looked fantastic in the exhibition against Cal Baptist, and it looks like that concern may be shrinking heading into the season. The concern was centered around UCLA’s rebounding abilities, and specifically whether this frontcourt could put up efficient enough numbers to survive in the Big Ten.Xavier Booker ...

UCLA may have eliminated a potential concern ahead of the season.

Throughout the offseason, there's been one area that has been a concern for this UCLA team, and specifically this frontcourt.

However, the Bruins looked fantastic in the exhibition against Cal Baptist, and it looks like that concern may be shrinking heading into the season. The concern was centered around UCLA’s rebounding abilities, and specifically whether this frontcourt could put up efficient enough numbers to survive in the Big Ten.

Xavier Booker Did His Part

Xavier Booker hadn't been the best rebounder so far in his career, and the lack of surrounding height made it a reasonable concern for UCLA fans. However, what we saw in the exhibition against Cal Baptist may have dialed down the concern quite a bit.

In fact, Xavier Booker had a very solid game, both on the offensive end and on the glass. In just his 20 minutes he saw on the court, he was able to get nine total rebounds, a mark that should be near the benchmark for him this season. But he didn't do it alone.

There were multiple pieces on this UCLA team that pitched in, as UCLA won the rebound battle by an astounding 57-29. Eric Dailey Jr. contributed in just about every area of this game, including on the glass. He totaled seven rebounds, including six on the defensive end, in addition to his 25 points.

Kusturica Could Be Difference-Maker

Nikola Kusturica's length allowed him to grab eight rebounds on the night, as he may be the player who can change the outlook for UCLA's rebounding this season. We've mentioned how Kusturica is , and rebounding is a major part of that. He uses to his advantage, and grabbing impressive rebounds looked completely natural to him in the exhibition matchup.

Auburn transfer also played his role exceedingly well, grabbing eight rebounds in just 18 minutes. Freshman Joe Philon grabbed seven in 18 minutes as well, being the fifth player on UCLA's roster with seven or more boards on the night.

Granted, it was an exhibition against a much lower-level team, but if what we saw Wednesday night was any indication of what's to come for UCLA, there could be little to no concern about UCLA's rebounding efforts. They have a major test coming up against Arizona, which has one of the best frontcourts in the country. UCLA will need every player to play their part in the opening matchup, as they have a true chance to eliminate this concern for good.

KADE NIX

Kade Nix is the UCLA Beat Writer On SI and a member of the United States Basketball Writers Association (USBWA). He specializes in college basketball coverage, with a statistical, analytics-driven approach to reporting, providing readers with in-depth analysis of recruiting, roster construction, player development, and the evolving college sports landscape.

Museum Announces Transformative $20 Million Gift for a Major Expansion of Learning and Engagement Center

Oct23,2026 Philadelphia, PA - October 23, 2026 – The Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA) today announced a $20 million gift from Lois G. and Julian A. Brodsky to establish the new Lois G. and Julian A. Brodsky Learning and Engagement Center (Brodsky Center). Their commitment is among the largest in the museum’s history and will transform the north wing into a dedicated space for advancing the museum’s educational mission. The Brodsky Center is the PMA’s first major capital pro...

Oct

23,

2026

Philadelphia, PA - October 23, 2026 – The Philadelphia Museum of Art (PMA) today announced a $20 million gift from Lois G. and Julian A. Brodsky to establish the new Lois G. and Julian A. Brodsky Learning and Engagement Center (Brodsky Center). Their commitment is among the largest in the museum’s history and will transform the north wing into a dedicated space for advancing the museum’s educational mission. The Brodsky Center is the PMA’s first major capital project since the Core Project, Frank Gehry’s landmark four-year interior renovation and expansion, which reopened to the public in May 2021.

The Brodsky Center will expand the museum’s reach to students, children, and families while welcoming audiences of all ages into inclusive and engaging spaces. Initial plans for the center include a family learning center, art studios, a visitor orientation area, and a multipurpose community hub. A central initiative of the Brodsky Center is to enhance the museum’s collections by engaging visitors with broad learning experiences throughout the galleries.

The design for the Brodsky Center is expected by summer 2027 and construction is anticipated to be complete within a few years. The museum is working with Philadelphia-based architecture firm MGA Partners on the schematic design of the Brodsky Center.

“I want to express my profound gratitude for this extraordinary gift and for the remarkable generosity of Lois and Julian Brodsky,” said Daniel Weiss, the George D. Widener Director and CEO of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. “It represents the capstone of their enduring commitment to the museum and will strengthen the vital work, energy, and impact of our mission.”

“Lois and I are incredibly happy to support the new Learning and Engagement Center,” said Julian Brodsky. “It comes at a wonderful moment, bringing together so many of the initiatives we are passionate about and reflecting our deep love for the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Throughout our lives, we have been ardently involved in educational initiatives, with a particular focus on children and families from underserved communities.”

Longtime donors, supporters, and friends of the PMA, the Brodskys have made a lasting impact through their generosity, expertise, and service. Julian, one of the three founding principals of Comcast, joined the Board of Trustees in 1995. During his tenure, he served on numerous Board committees, as Vice Chair of the Board from 2003 to 2018, and as Chair of the Audit Committee from 2018 to 2023. After 29 years of dedicated service, Julian became a Trustee Emeritus in 2024. He currently serves as Vice Chair of the Library and Archives committee.

Lois began volunteering at the PMA in 1982 as a Membership Guide and served as a Weekday Guide from 1986 to 2019, sharing her knowledge of the museum’s holdings and guiding groups through the permanent collection and special exhibitions. She currently serves on the committees for Conservation, European Art, and Prints, Drawings and Photographs.

This is not the Brodskys’ first major gift to the PMA. In 2005, the Constantin Brancusi gallery was renamed the Lois Green Brodsky Gallery in recognition of their substantial support for the museum’s 125th anniversary campaign. They also endowed the Brodsky Curator of Photographs position in 2009 through the Lenfest Challenge, a major matching campaign to endow key roles throughout the museum.

“The new Brodsky Center will be an intentionally designed, purpose-built space that inspires limitless educational experiences grounded in the PMA’s collection,” said Audrey Hudson, the Kathleen C. Sherrerd Deputy Director for Learning and Engagement. “It will address the museum’s need for expanded capacity to host school groups, while providing dedicated spaces for programming and studios for hands-on learning.”

The Brodsky Center will significantly increase the number of students the museum can serve. The PMA currently welcomes approximately 36,000 students each year. Guided school visits and bus transportation continue to be offered free of charge to students from the School District of Philadelphia (SDP), SDP preschools and Head Start programs, Philadelphia Parks & Recreation camps, and Title I schools throughout the tri-state region and Delaware Valley. The museum is committed to serving and expanding educational opportunities for children and offers free admission to those age 18 and younger.

Media Contacts

Carolynn McCormack | [email protected] | 215-684-7859

About the Philadelphia Museum of Art

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is a national and international destination for art, but first, we are Philadelphia’s art museum—for all of the many diverse communities of the city. Through our collections, exhibitions, events, educational activities, celebrations and more, the museum is a storyteller, and we welcome everyone to be part of the story—our doors are wide open. To learn more, visit www.philamuseum.org.

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