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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 Oceanside, CA

Home Care Oceanside, CA

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

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Oceanside Municipal Pier 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 Oceanside, CA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Oceanside, CA

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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

“Martesha has always been in a good mood and pleasant while providing her services to me. She goes beyond what has been asked to do both physically and mentally. Her attitude is always positive and encouraging me in my recovery. She is an excellent companion and helpful to me. She is morally fit and encouraging I can’t thank you enough. ABC thank you for providing services”

Michael S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have been with Always Best Care for about 2 years, caring for my 86 year old father. Although I am his main caregiver, I still need help. My dad has 2 caregivers assigned to him which allows me to still keep my job. Dawn, his daily caregiver, goes that extra mile. Treating my dad as if it was her father. And Martesha, a newer caregiver for my dad, knew just what to do. And with a little background about my father, she didn't need much prompting ABC is so thoughtful and really shows their employees and client's how much they are appreciated.”

DIANA F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am very proud to Belong to Always Best Care Senior Services ❤️ Because is a Company which really care about of their clients and their team workers”

Olga M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great company. The staff is amazing and helpful. I was a caregiver for my husband and they help with training and were always pampering me with gift cards, birthday cards, Raffles. It felt just like a hug in this road”

Carla W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My name is Gabriela, I have been with Always Best Care for seven years and I have to say, it's really a great company to work for. The owners and manager are very professional, attentive, kind and flexible. As a caregiver is important that my client's needs are met and that we are a good match, and ABC does this perfectly. It's been a rewarding experience, taking care of my clients and Always Best Care has a huge heart towards people in need of care. Thank you ABC”

Gabriela B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I been working with always best care for a year now, let me just say how wonderful it has been to work for such an amazing company that not only cares for their clients but also their employees. If you are looking for a job as a caregiver I would highly recommend always best care!”

silvana L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My experience with the clients with them have been great.Plus they have a very flexible hours.”

Sabino R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hi, my name is Janett .. Working at Always Best Care has been the best experience of my life, from the day I went to apply for the job as a caregiver I felt very humbled. Im happy working at ABC and I hope to continue working for many years.. "❤️"”

Chapis V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm a caregiver with Always Best Care. I've work for the agency since early April 2023. My experience has been fun, challenging at times but very rewarding. My clients are very nice. It is a great place to work. Management and administration are very communicative and attentive. They always address any concerns I have whether it is schedule issue, a client issue, or a special request. I love working for ABC. I highly recommend our company for any prospective or experienced caregivers. ????”

Robert T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My name is Haley Maddox and I’ve been with Always Best Care for a few months now and I would just like to say I absolutely LOVE and appreciate the company because they are always willing to work with you and your schedule to fit your personal life as well. Not only that but they make sure you know it’s ok to report any and every kind of complications at work and they always encourage you to ask questions and I like that a lot because not many jobs give you that comfortable feeling that YOU matter too. Thank you to ALWAYS BEST CARE for taking great care of not just their clients but their employees as well!❤️”

Haley L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“So grateful to be apart of this wonderful community of people, it is such a great company! My clients treat me as I am their family and I truly take great pride in being able to care for them.”

Midori G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Have really enjoyed working for Always Best Care !”

Angelica L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Chelsea from the day she manager has been sweet and wonderful, making sure my schedule which is very complicated was met. She is a blessing to me”

Gloria B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is Gloria Brown and Ive been with always best care for some years. Its always been a great company to work for, but it even got better when Chelsea became the manager. With my super busy schedule she's alway been able to accommodate me, witch is not easy. It has been a blessing having her in my life. I've never worked for a company that shows appreciation and rewards us often. It feels wonderful to be appreciated. Thank you.”

Willie B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Aida Gomez is truly an Angel in disguise She is patient with me & attend to all my needs as a caregiver.. Her appearance & personality is awesome!!????. Am very pleased with Aida. I love her flexibility.”

Martha C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“For me it is a honor to be part of this company called ALWAYS BEST CARE . From the first moment they always treated me with great respect , always worried about what I need . For me , my clients are part of my family, they are people who needs heard,respected and loved♥️I feel very blessed to be their caregiver ????.. Thank you very much for allowing me to be part of your beautiful company ????”

leticia O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been and continues to be a great working environment. The flexibility in my schedule has made it one of the most beneficial advantages working here. I have had the pleasure to have such great clients that have been very compatible both ways. Overall working at Always Best Care is and continues to be a great, flexible, compatible, understanding environment. Thank you Always Best Care”

A Q.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have a great experience, flexible hours, great place to work.”

Ofelia C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a great place to work, great environment there is very nice staff a job you can call home and care about are clients.”

Janet M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care provides an excellent service as a caregiver. They care about the staff and the patient needs. The Leadership team are very compassion because they have a good level of communication and it also wants to do the right things.”

Lorena D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Ophelia Carter is the best thing that ever happened to Bobby Wigley. She has a lot of patience and she is so good for him. She manages to do everything in a timely manner for him. She's amazing. I don't know how much money she makes but she deserves more. Thank you”

Darlene W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hello ???????? there this is Leonardo Martínez I’m one of the formal Care givers associates for Always best Care I would like to thanks not only always best care in general for the amazing management but specially to my manager the best and most caring manager I have ever had ever, specially when it comes to work and making things work for everyone, awesome communication stills and training, always showing the best guidance for work,making me learn something new I can apply for work, honestly couldn’t be more great full and satisfied for chelsy Boscarino being by manages. God bless sincerely.”

Leonardo M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am getting the best quality of care”

Marilyn V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services meets each of their client's needs regardless of the intensity of the illness. Health and safety are #1 with this agency without question as to the complexity or time frame. They are committed for the duration. Customer service is not a lost cause. The staff will go beyond its means to comply to request.”

Bennie S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“From the start everyone (I've interacted with) has been awesome. You can tell they really care and so do their jobs well. From Chelsea in admin to Steven the phone nurse and especially Martesha Dad's caregiver. They make taking care of my father so much easier than it would be if I were on my own. I appreciate all of you and all you do. Thank you.”

Dawn W.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Oceanside, CA?

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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 Oceanside, CA

Types of Elderly Care in Oceanside, CA

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 Oceanside, CA
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 Oceanside, CA
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 Buddy Todd 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 Oceanside, CA
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 333 Pacific or visit Mission San Luis Rey, 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 Oceanside, CA

Benefits of Home Care in Oceanside, CA

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 Oceanside, CA, 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 Oceanside, CA

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 CA'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 Oceanside, CA

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 Oceanside, CA 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 Oceanside, CA

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 Oceanside, CA

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:

  • Oceanside Senior Living
  • Ocean Hills Senior Living
  • Heritage Hills of Oceanside
  • Bayshire Carlsbad
  • Sunrise of Oceanside
  • Fairwinds Ivey Ranch
Home Care Oceanside, CA

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 Oceanside, CA

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 Oceanside, CA 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 Oceanside, CA

Latest News in Oceanside, CA

Find Deals In Oceanside On National Thrift Shop Day

Thrifters can score big this weekend. Salvation Army Thrift Stores are offering 50% off, and Goodwill boasts special deals.OCEANSIDE, CA — If you love a good bargain, hunting for vintage treasures, or giving new life to gently used items, you’ll want to mark your calendar for National Thrift Shop Day this Sunday, Aug. 17.The annual celebration is a chance to explore secondhand stores, support local nonprofits and score deals in and around Oceanside.Thrift shopping isn’t just about saving money, it&rsq...

Thrifters can score big this weekend. Salvation Army Thrift Stores are offering 50% off, and Goodwill boasts special deals.

OCEANSIDE, CA — If you love a good bargain, hunting for vintage treasures, or giving new life to gently used items, you’ll want to mark your calendar for National Thrift Shop Day this Sunday, Aug. 17.

The annual celebration is a chance to explore secondhand stores, support local nonprofits and score deals in and around Oceanside.

Thrift shopping isn’t just about saving money, it’s also about sustainability. Buying secondhand keeps usable items out of landfills and reduces the demand for new goods, which means less waste and fewer resources used in manufacturing. Plus, many thrift shops are run by charities, so your purchase may help fund job training, shelters, community programs or other local services.

Goodwill in Southern California is marking the occasion with a weeklong promotion that kicked off earlier this week and will continue through Sunday. Shoppers can visit a local Goodwill store to enter for a chance to win “fabulous prizes.”

“There’s no better time to find unique treasures and support your community,” Goodwill officials said.

In the Bay Area, Goodwill is offering 50 percent off in-store items on Saturday, Aug. 16. The chain is also offering ideas in several areas of Northern California on how to spend a low-cost day after shopping.

“After you’ve bagged your treasures, round out the adventure with a few no-cost ways to enjoy the local scenery, share time with family or friends, or impress your out-of-town guests,” Goodwill San Francisco Bay said.

From Friday through Sunday, Aug. 15-17, The Salvation Army Thrift Stores in California will celebrate National Thrift Shop Day with a weekend-long sale offering 50 percent off all regular-priced clothing.

Shoppers can browse racks of unique and affordable finds while enjoying savings on everything from dresses and tops to jeans, the chain said.

Here are a few local thrift shops in and around Oceanside you can check out this week:

Here's the full list of Goodwill retail stores in the county. Here's a list of Salvation Army Thrift Stores in the county.

Whether you’re after a vintage jacket, a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture, or just a fun way to spend an afternoon, National Thrift Shop Day is the perfect excuse to shop smart, save money and support your community.

Oceanside ranks top place for retirees, city develops plan to help seniors thrive

A retirement research journal has ranked Oceanside as the second-best place to retire in California. KPBS North County reporter Tania Thorne explains why the city scored so high and what it’s doing to help seniors and retirees thrive.A study from Retirement Living took a look at California’s senior populations, home prices and tax rates to help determine the best places to retire.The city o...

A retirement research journal has ranked Oceanside as the second-best place to retire in California. KPBS North County reporter Tania Thorne explains why the city scored so high and what it’s doing to help seniors and retirees thrive.

A study from Retirement Living took a look at California’s senior populations, home prices and tax rates to help determine the best places to retire.

The city of Oceanside ranked No. 2 because of its senior population and local economy.

"Where Oceanside stood out the most was 1 in 5 residents living in the city are over the age of 65, and that's one of the highest senior populations in the state," said Jailyn Montero, a spokesperson with the research group.

But a high senior population doesn't necessarily mean Oceanside is affordable.

The journal found the median home price in Oceanside was around $850,000, and the median monthly rent was around $2,200.

Montero said the high cost of living comes with a trade-off. "You're paying for coastal living. You're paying for a higher quality of life, a lower poverty rate overall," she said. "Which means ... typically well maintained neighborhoods and public services."

Mary Kelly agreed. She moved to Oceanside in 1994, the year she retired. She participates in programs at the Country Club Senior Center.

"I do tai chi, and when we have little programs sometimes, like drumming ... I love that," Kelly said, noting Oceanside has become more senior-friendly over time.

The city wants to become even friendlier to the aging population.

Oceanside partnered with San Diego State University’s Center for Excellence in Aging & Longevity (CEAL) to develop an age-friendly action plan.

"Every single step of the process is looking at what is already in place in that municipality to help support an age-friendly community, and then getting feedback on where there are gaps," said Jocelyn Protopappas, the special projects manager.

The survey found seniors in Oceanside wanted more communication on resources and information on disaster preparedness.

"Around 50% of residents who completed our survey and attended the listening sessions noted that they didn't know what to prepare in case there was an emergency. They weren't clear on evacuation routes, what they should do with their pets, where should they go," Protopappas said.

As a result, the city already rolled out disaster preparedness courses, even before its action plan has been drafted.

That information came in handy for Mary Kelly during the recent tsunami warning. "The things they told us to do, I actually did," she said. "I went to the bank and got money. I filled my car up with gas, and I threw a blanket in my car, just in case."

Mobility and accessibility are also issues that often keep seniors from attending events like concerts at city parks.

"I think this process of going through and becoming an age-friendly city has really helped us to start to look at things from a different perspective so that we're a more inclusive city," said Manuel Gonzalez, director of Oceanside’s parks and recreation.

He said having a plan in place will help address some of those barriers.

SDSU's CEAL said that by 2030, the San Diego region's population aged 65 and older will double.

"This is having profound impacts on every aspect of our lives, from the education system to our housing environments, to our health care, to our businesses, to our government," Protopappus said. "These age-friendly plans are really critical because this shift in demographics is going to have an impact on everybody."

Oceanside is expected to have an approved age-friendly action plan by the end of this year.

National Ice Cream Day Is Sunday: Where To Score Freebies And Deals In Oceanside

Several ice cream shops and companies are offering freebies and deals on Sunday, and some have month-long offers.OCEANSIDE, CA — As far back as the Persian Empire and Tang Dynasty, frozen treats have offered cool relief on hot days. So it’s little wonder that the Quaker colonists brought recipes for frozen ice treats and ice cream with them, and opened the first ice cream shops in New York and other cities.Fast-forward two and one-half centuries, and ice cream is widely regarded as America’s favorite summert...

Several ice cream shops and companies are offering freebies and deals on Sunday, and some have month-long offers.

OCEANSIDE, CA — As far back as the Persian Empire and Tang Dynasty, frozen treats have offered cool relief on hot days. So it’s little wonder that the Quaker colonists brought recipes for frozen ice treats and ice cream with them, and opened the first ice cream shops in New York and other cities.

Fast-forward two and one-half centuries, and ice cream is widely regarded as America’s favorite summertime treat. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed July as National Ice Cream Month and established National Ice Cream Day as the third Sunday of July. This year, that’s on July 20.

Several ice cream shops and companies are offering freebies and deals on Sunday, and some have month-long offers. Here’s a look at some of them in Oceanside and across San Diego County. As always, call ahead to make sure your local store is participating.

Baskin-Robbins: The chain’s weeklong celebration of National Ice Cream Day starts Sunday and continues through July 26. Rewards members get $5 off orders of $20 or more placed through third-party delivery.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream: The chain has several promotions tied to National Ice Cream Month, including a chance to win free ice cream for a year.

Burger King: Rewards members can get a free Soft Serve ice cream with the purchase of $1 or more on Sunday.

Chuck E. Cheese: Customers can enjoy a free small cup of the new limited-edition “Chuck E.’s Cookie Crunch” Dippin’ Dots by presenting a coupon at the register at participating Chuck E. Cheese locations.

Cold Stone Creamery: Now through July 31, the chain is offering a flavor twist on a fan-favorite treat: Birthday Cake Oreo Cookie Ice Cream Taco, now featuring the all-new Birthday Cake Oreo Cookie Ice Cream. On Sunday, the store will choose five winners of Cold Stone Creamery Ice Cream ($450) for a year (entry details @ColdStone on Instagram).

Dairy Queen: Through Sunday, rewards members get a free Dilly Bar on orders of $1 or more.

Dunkin’: Rewards members get three times the points on Frozen Beverages on Sunday, as well as $3 medium Refreshers.

Handel’s Homemade Ice Cream: Handel’s is celebrating the 80th anniversary of its founding by offering a free small ice cream to people 80 and older on National Ice Cream Day.

Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream: On Sunday, Jeni’s offers customers the add Sundae Fudge Sauce to any order at no charge.

My/Mochi Ice Cream: Every Sunday in July, My/Mochi is giving away “summer chill packs” with ice cream coupons and other merchandise. On National Ice Cream Day this Sunday, fans can sign up for a free year’s supply of premium ice cream when they follow My/Mochi on Instagram, like a post, comment with summer friends, or tag a friend.

Salt & Straw: The chain culminates a full week of offers Sunday with a prize for every online offer placed. Guests will each get one NICD card with a QR code revealing prizes ranging from a free scoop to a personal ice cream-making session with Salt & Straw chef, founder and cookbook author Tyler Malek.

Van Leeuwen: In celebration of the 10th anniversary of its popular Honeycomb flavor and National Ice Cream Day, Van Leeuwen Scoop Shops nationwide are offering $3 scoops of Honeycomb at from noon to 2 p.m. local time. Customers also get a chance at a 3-gallon tub of Honeycomb ice cream and merchandise. For those in New York, the first 100 customers at the Tribeca location will get a scratch-off ticket with a chance to win prizes.

3 Beloved California Ice Cream Shops Named Among Best In The U.S.

A California ice cream shop with a storied history, a range of unique flavors and an unusual name made this year's Fodor's list.OCEANSIDE, CA — Only a dozen ice cream shops across the country made a new list from Fodor's Travel — and three California classics are among them.When it comes to ice cream, the experts at Fodor's Travel know their stuff. This list, curated for the summer of 2025, includes...

A California ice cream shop with a storied history, a range of unique flavors and an unusual name made this year's Fodor's list.

OCEANSIDE, CA — Only a dozen ice cream shops across the country made a new list from Fodor's Travel — and three California classics are among them.

When it comes to ice cream, the experts at Fodor's Travel know their stuff. This list, curated for the summer of 2025, includes classics, innovative flavors, and incredible frozen treats sprinkled with creativity.

In California, Fodor's Travel suggestions for must-try frozen treats include:

An's Dry Cleaning:

In Southern California, a San Diego-area ice cream shop with an odd name received recognition from the famed travel guide. An’s Dry Cleaning is located at 3017 Adams Avenue in North Park. This location was formerly a 1930s dry cleaning store and is a "made-from-scratch gelato shop that has been slowly garnering nationwide acclaim thanks to its inventive flavors and perfect execution of them," according to Fodor's.

But why is it called An's Dry Cleaning? During their search for the perfect location, the owners discovered a historic building built in 1934 on Adams Avenue, but felt it would be wrong to change the name of a long-standing establishment.

"We immediately fell in love with the location, the community, and the people. But changing the name of an old establishment, in an even older building, didn’t feel right," the owners wrote on their website.

The shop has named flavors after different fabrics, like Full Grain Leather, a brown butter mix with brownie and cookie crumbles, and Phin, a Vietnamese coffee concoction. The shop changes flavors every two weeks, and returning guests are invited on tasting tours before committing to new creations.

The shop's "biggest success story" is its burnt caramel flavor, which is "earning acclaim and following for its smoky aftertaste on a heavy cream base," according to Fodor's.

The shop offers a weekly rotating menu and a roster of quirky items, including leather and lingerie. Find their current menu here. The shop is open daily from noon to 11 p.m.

Bi-Rite Creamery:

In the Bay Area, Bi-Rite Creamery also received a sweet acknowledgement from the Fodor's guide.

"If there’s only one salted caramel ice cream you have for the rest of your life, you’ll want it to be Bi-Rite Creamery’s. It was here that the trend for the French-invented flavor exploded in the early 2000s…a time when—hard to believe—Americans hadn’t yet developed a taste for it. Bi-Rite’s Salted Caramel is made with premium organic milk, gray sea salt, and sugar that is cooked longer for a smoky finish. Other equally delectable flavors on offer include Mint Chip and Tiramisu."

Find it open every day from noon to 9 p.m. in San Francisco, located at 3692 18th Street.

Salt & Straw:

You can find this next delicious ice cream shop at one of the many franchise locations across the Golden State. Although the chain began in Oregon, Salt & Straw is available nationwide, with many locations in California, including San Diego, Downtown Disney, and the San Francisco Bay Area, among others.

Though it has grown, not much has changed by way of technique and taste since the company first opened in 2011 in Portland, Oregon, by cousins Kim and Tyler Malek," says Fodor's. Take a trip down the bestseller route by ordering Chocolate Gooey Brownie or Double Fold Vanilla, or on more out-there monthly specials like Gruyère and Tomato Custard Tart," according to Fodor's Guide.

The chain has a strong celeb-strong following, which includes Jeff Goldblum, Chrissy Teigen, and Dwayne Johnson. The Rock loves it so much that he is both an investor and a creative collaborator.

Other shops that made Fodor's list include the Annapolis Ice Cream Company, Sugarwitch in St. Louis, Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, and Loblolly Creamery in Little Rock, Arkansas.

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