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It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Apache Junction, AZ

Home Care Apache Junction, AZ

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 City of Apache Junction Downtown Marker 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 Apache Junction, AZ is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Apache Junction, AZ

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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

“I am so blessed to have found this wonderful company and people to work for. You are all so wonderful and I appreciate you all.”

Rita D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I had a wonderful experience with this company providing home aids during a post-op recovery period of six weeks. I can't say enough about how professional, knowledgeable, friendly, courteous, punctual, responsive, skilled, discreet, and just great to have around a few hours per week during my home stay. Everything I needed done was done without question or complaining or unnecessary comments. And, with a great attitude! They were truly there to help and it was very comfortable having the aids in my home. They did so much to help my recovery go smoothly. I highly recommend Always Best Care and wouldn't hesitate to use their services again should the need arise.”

Jennifer C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They were great . They truly care about their clients”

Charles B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great people to work with. I can truly recommend them.”

LORETTA C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My mother’s caregiver is patient when explaining computer issues, tv issues and other technical problems that are becoming increasingly frustrating. These things are so important to Mom when she feels forgetful and disconnected from family. I am glad we found Always Best Care. They really care for their clients.”

Valerie C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is Kathy, Marcy did an assessment on my brother on January 14th who is in congestive heart failure . We were concerned with what kind of living situation would be best for him She suggested a senior living center as he would benefit from having help around during his set backs. Since I live 2000 miles away I really appreciated her help. We got him placed and her records helped his new home getting him situated. Thank you Kathy”

Heather C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Caring, concerned, kind and always on time. Everyone was stellar and helped me care for my loved one. Top notch!”

Masha C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is an amazing company to work for. John and the team really care about their employees and also clients.”

Charlotte N.
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TESTIMONIALS

“John and his team will give you the best care and best options. They are experts and will focus on your personal needs. If you need help and care for your loved one Always Best Care truly is the best care available. Your loved one matters and John will not let you down. Their commitment and care will put your mind at ease and provide care and support for you or your family member. This is a place you can trust to give their best. Thank you for all you do.”

Mindy H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hi John, My family and I want you to know how very much we appreciate your help and kindness. We found out very quickly on Friday what you meant about everyone wanting Rhi. She was exceptional. I can’t express enough the excellent care she gave Sheldon for the three hours she was here. Rhi used the lift and put him in the wheelchair and into the backyard we went. He was absolutely thrilled. His attitude changed for the better and talked about it the rest of the day and into the next. Rhi said to ask you to put her in your rotation to help us again. She made us realize how important it was for someone to be here most of the time that was skilled in using the lift to get him outside or sitting in a chair in the house for some of the time the caregiver is here. This is John again. Thank you Rhi for being such an excellent caregiver I'm not sure what we'd do without you!”

Carol H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care Senior Services is fabulous for anyone who is looking to stay in their own home and age-in-place. Ganeen & John are truly dedicated to providing the highest quality of comfort and care to each of their clients. Thank you for your big hearts!”

Sherry E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Wonderful, Caring, trustworthy Staff! I high recommend them , as they are kind, patient, providing superb customer service.”

Julie H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Working for ABC Mesa puy my heart in a happy place. I felt I was appropriately paired with clients I wouldnt just get along with, but with my skills as well. I never had a client i was reluctant to go back to and I believe Trevor and John played a significant role in this.”

Morganne J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent caring staff who pay attention to the details. They are particularly kind. Excellent service.”

Richard P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent caring staff who pay attention to the details. They are particularly kind. Excellent service.”

Richard L.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Apache Junction, AZ?

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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 Apache Junction, AZ

Types of Elderly Care in Apache Junction, AZ

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 Apache Junction, AZ
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 Apache Junction, AZ
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 Flatiron 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 Apache Junction, AZ
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 Dirtwater Springs or visit Prospector's Palace, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

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

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

 In-Home Care Apache Junction, AZ

Benefits of Home Care in Apache Junction, AZ

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 Apache Junction, AZ, 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 Apache Junction, AZ

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 AZ'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 Apache Junction, AZ

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 Apache Junction, AZ 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 Apache Junction, AZ

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 Apache Junction, AZ

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:

  • Visions Assisted Living of Apache Junction
  • Avista Senior Living Apache Junction
  • Brookdale Apache Junction
  • Senior haven assisted living home
  • IGH Adult Care
  • Better Senior Carehome LLC
Home Care Apache Junction, AZ

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 Apache Junction, AZ

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 Apache Junction, AZ 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 Apache Junction, AZ

Latest News in Apache Junction, AZ

Century Communities Announces New Home Collections in Apache Junction, Arizona

Top 10 homebuilder and industry leader now selling new build homes outside of PhoenixAPACHE JUNCTION, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Century Communities, Inc., a top 10 national homebuilder, an industry leader in online home sales, and the highest-ranked homebuilder on Newsweek's list of America's Most Trustworthy Companies 2023—announced that...

Top 10 homebuilder and industry leader now selling new build homes outside of Phoenix

APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz., Jan. 9, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Century Communities, Inc., a top 10 national homebuilder, an industry leader in online home sales, and the highest-ranked homebuilder on Newsweek's list of America's Most Trustworthy Companies 2023—announced that Superstition Vista, the company's new community in Apache Junction, is now selling two home collections: The Crest Collection and The Ridge Collection. Models are available for tour at both collections, showcasing a range of ranch and two-story layouts. A Grand Opening celebration will be held at the community on January 20.

Offering a versatile lineup of single-family homes, Superstition Vista boasts desirable features, including granite countertops, stainless-steel appliances and tile flooring, as well as front yard landscaping and the builder's Century Home Connect® smart home package. The community also features resort-style amenities, ranging from an outdoor pool and clubhouse to walking trails and open space. In total, Superstition Vista will contribute 250 houses to the greater Phoenix area—near Desert Vista Elementary School, Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, and Lost Dutchman State Park. Homes, starting in the high $300s, are currently available for purchase online and in-person.

Learn more about Superstition Vista and view available homes at www.CenturyCommunities.com/ApacheJunction.

NOW SELLING:

The Crest Collection at Superstition Vista| Apache Junction, AZ Now selling from the high $300s

Location:2640 E. Music Mountain AvenueApache Junction, AZ 85119480.791.1570

Learn more & explore available homes at www.CenturyCommunities.com/SuperstitionVistaCrest.

The Ridge Collection at Superstition Vista| Apache Junction, AZ Now selling from the high $300s

Location:2701 E. Music Mountain AvenueApache Junction, AZ 85119480.791.1577

Learn more & explore available homes at www.CenturyCommunities.com/SuperstitionVistaRidge.

DISCOVER THE FREEDOM OF ONLINE HOMEBUYING:

Century Communities is proud to feature its industry-first online homebuying experience on all available homes in Arizona.

How it works:

Learn more about the Buy Online experience at www.CenturyCommunities.com/online-homebuying.

About Century CommunitiesCentury Communities, Inc. (NYSE: CCS) is one of the nation's largest homebuilders, an industry leader in online home sales, and the highest-ranked homebuilder on Newsweek's list of America's Most Trustworthy Companies 2023. Through its Century Communities and Century Complete brands, Century's mission is to build attractive, high-quality homes at affordable prices to provide its valued customers with A HOME FOR EVERY DREAM®. Century is engaged in all aspects of homebuilding — including the acquisition, entitlement and development of land, along with the construction, innovative marketing and sale of quality homes designed to appeal to a wide range of homebuyers. The Company operates in 18 states and over 45 markets across the U.S., and also offers title, insurance and lending services in select markets through its Parkway Title, IHL Home Insurance Agency, and Inspire Home Loans subsidiaries. To learn more about Century Communities, please visit www.centurycommunities.com.

SOURCE Century Communities, Inc.

Concern over cooling measures on Apache Junction Unified School District buses

APACHE JUNCTION, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — Parents in the Apache Junction Unified School District say school buses have poorly-functioning air conditioning units that have left students coming home dry heaving and even on the verge of passing out. The district superintendent sent a letter to parents today disputing that claim, saying all school buses have fully functional air conditioning systems.“I’ve never felt it that hot,” district 4th grader Macy Solaiza said. “I was about to pass out. I wanted to thro...

APACHE JUNCTION, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — Parents in the Apache Junction Unified School District say school buses have poorly-functioning air conditioning units that have left students coming home dry heaving and even on the verge of passing out. The district superintendent sent a letter to parents today disputing that claim, saying all school buses have fully functional air conditioning systems.

“I’ve never felt it that hot,” district 4th grader Macy Solaiza said. “I was about to pass out. I wanted to throw up too.”

Macy’s mom Crickett says that when the school year started on Monday, kids were coming home sweaty. But what happened Wednesday was the worst yet. “I was furious because I entrust the school district with my child,” she said.

She wasn’t the only one. Dozens of parents shared their thoughts on social media, making it clear that something needs to change. “Pay the bus driver to start the engines early to have the bus cool down before the children enter the bus,” Crickett suggested.

In a letter to district parents, superintendent Dr. Robert Pappalardo said on Thursday that the district is taking proactive steps to minimize any discomfort. They include regular maintenance of the buses, pre-cooling procedures and providing water for students. But Cynthia Chavez, who has a kindergartener in the district, says what the district is doing isn’t working.

“I pray that they don’t wait until something happens,” she said.

Chavez says she nearly took her son to the emergency room after he came home drenched in sweat and dry heaving. She says the district doesn’t allow students to roll down the bus windows for additional ventilation. “They’re leaving these kids in a hot bus, windows rolled up, while they’re driving around at different spots,” she said. “That’s the same thing as leaving a kid in a hot car. It’s ridiculous.”

Arizona’s Family reached out to the Apache Junction Unified School District to try and confirm any policy regarding the windows on buses having to stay up but did not get a response.

See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it.

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Copyright 2023 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.

Apache Junction holiday program, light parade Saturday - Apache Junction Independent

Daily Independent Apache Junction Chandler Florence Fountain Hills ...

Cleanup underway in Apache Junction after rain storm hits from the southeast

APACHE JUNCTION, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — It may have taken later in the day than some would have liked, but parts of the Phoenix area got rain on Monday night. The storms came from the southeast and moved into the Valley. People in central Phoenix and Ahwatukee saw some rain. Some pop-up showers formed in Maryvale and Litchfield Park as well. However, the National Weather Service didn’t issue a severe thunderstorm warning, so most of the rain is going to be light and move along pretty quickly.Earlier in the day, it appeare...

APACHE JUNCTION, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — It may have taken later in the day than some would have liked, but parts of the Phoenix area got rain on Monday night. The storms came from the southeast and moved into the Valley. People in central Phoenix and Ahwatukee saw some rain. Some pop-up showers formed in Maryvale and Litchfield Park as well. However, the National Weather Service didn’t issue a severe thunderstorm warning, so most of the rain is going to be light and move along pretty quickly.

Earlier in the day, it appeared a string of storms was going to hit Mesa and Apache Junction. While some areas got rain, the storms fizzled and went north, giving Fountain Hills a little bit of wet weather. Looking ahead, we are watching Tropical Storm Harold in the Gulf of Mexico, poised to slam into the southeastern Texas coastline. Moisture streaming westward may get caught up in our southern flow and pick up our chances of heavy rain on Wednesday.

Late into the night, more storms moved into the far East Valley, damaging mobile home parks and toppling trees in Apache Junction. Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

We are seeing a cluster of storms approaching the Phoenix area. Lightning activity, gusty winds, and brief heavy downpours are likely with this activity. Another cluster of storms north of Tucson will likely impact Phoenix soon after. #azwx pic.twitter.com/spux3rcvUU

— NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) August 22, 2023

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This is a developing story. Be sure to check back often for the latest updates.

See a spelling or grammatical error in our story? Please click here to report it.

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Copyright 2023 KTVK/KPHO. All rights reserved.

ADOT wants opinions on design for state Route 88 northeast of Apache Junction

TORTILLA FLAT, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — It’s been four years since a fire and then a storm destroyed a 5-mile stretch of state Route 88, up toward Apache Lake. That part of the highway has been closed ever since 2019. But an Arizona Department of Transportation study is working on a plan to safely reopen the historic road. Public comment on ADOT’s design recommendations ends Friday....

TORTILLA FLAT, AZ (3TV/CBS 5) — It’s been four years since a fire and then a storm destroyed a 5-mile stretch of state Route 88, up toward Apache Lake. That part of the highway has been closed ever since 2019. But an Arizona Department of Transportation study is working on a plan to safely reopen the historic road. Public comment on ADOT’s design recommendations ends Friday.

Tortilla Flat is a tiny town with a population of six. But thousands of people worldwide pass through one stop on the Apache Trail every year. It’s been tough for tourism ever since part of state Route 88 was damaged and shut down. To Katie Ellering – the Apache Trail is more than a highway. It’s a historic loop of adventure that’s worth preserving and maintaining. “We’re the last surviving stagecoach stop on the Apache Trail and now we’re the last stop on the trail and we don’t want to be known as that. We want the trail to go through,” said Ellering. She owns Tortilla Flat.

State Route 88 was created in 1904 to give construction access to workers building the Roosevelt Dam. The narrow, winding road cuts through the Superstition Mountains and parts are unpaved. “There’s so much history out in this area. If this road doesn’t get open, we don’t want it to be gone and lost forever,” she said.

The Woodbury Fire in June 2019 burned 123,875, making it the fifth largest wildfire in Arizona’s history. A few months later, a storm poured 6 inches of rain onto the fire scar. The runoff and rockslide damaged the road near Fish Creek Hill Overlook to the point it’s now impassable. “Car-sized boulders in the road and, you know, the foundation of the road kinda crumbling and washing away,” remembered Ellering.

ADOT says it is working to fix that with a recommendation to pave and widen parts of the road, add guardrails and improve the drainage system. The goal is to make the highway resilient to future storms. “This storm did something that no one’s ever seen before so that’s why it’s going to take a lot of work to get this road back in shape so that it is safe for the public,” said Garin Groff with ADOT.

In the meantime, detours are available, but Ellering says what used to be a 15-minute drive now takes three hours. There’s concern about emergency response time and how long it’s taking ADOT to act. “There’s definitely a lot of frustration,” said Ellering.

ADOT says it will be several years before the road reopens. They say they need to finalize a design plan and secure federal funding. ADOT is accepting public comment through Friday. Comments can be submitted to ADOT in the following ways:

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