AA Learn more about in-home care options for your loved ones

Given the choice, most of us want to stay in our homes. Sometimes, people need help to remain at home. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Personal Care Consultation

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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot praise Sarah and her team enough. My husband had a stroke and was in the hospital over a month before transferring to a physical therapy unit. It has been a scary time for my family and me. Sarah has helped us navigate the complex medical world and given me clear pathways to choose from on what the future might look like for my husband and me. Our hope is that he return home, but if he cannot, Sarah has given me concrete options that would serve our needs and give us peace of mind for the continued care and rehabilitation for my husband. We have toured facilities together and I have appreciated her kindness, intelligence and her attention to the details that I would not have even thought of. She definitely is an expert in her field and her help in our crisis has been immensely appreciated.”

Valentine C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My experience with Always Best Care was phenomenal! I have never experienced an owner, and her amazing employees, go so far above and beyond to help my family. Sarah Cave (owner of ABC) has a heart of pure gold! She (literally and figuratively) held my sister’s and my hand as we moved through one of the most stressful times of our lives. We were dealing with a dad in serious condition in the hospital and a mom who needed 24/7 care for her Alzheimer’s. Sarah and her angelic crew rallied around us, and helped us support two parents through what felt like an impossible situation They helped care for our mom, they set up care upon my dads return home (dealing with a very unstable version of him with unending grace) and provided countless options on how to help them move forward (assisted living options, in-home care, etc). Sarah gave us all the resources we needed along the way. The degree in which she and her team showed up was truly astounding, and we will be forever grateful. They saved us during a time that felt dire. I am forever indebted to this phenomenal team. It doesn’t get better than Always Best Care!!!”

Leisha D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot praise Sarah and her team enough. My husband had a stroke and was in the hospital over a month before transferring to a physical therapy unit. It has been a scary time for my family and me. Sarah has helped us navigate the complex medical world and given me clear pathways to choose from on what the future might look like for my husband and me. Our hope is that he return home, but if he cannot, Sarah has given me concrete options that would serve our needs and give us peace of mind for the continued care and rehabilitation for my husband. We have toured facilities together and I have appreciated her kindness, intelligence and her attention to the details that I would not have even thought of. She definitely is an expert in her field and her help in our crisis has been immensely appreciated.”

Valli C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I hired Always Best Care (“ABC”) to provide caregivers for my husband, who has Parkinson’s and dementia. Communication with ABC was excellent. Sarah and Kaitlin worked tirelessly to find the perfect fit for my husband’s needs, and his caregivers, Surminda and Amina, were wonderful. When it eventually became apparent that I needed to move my husband into memory care, Sarah was with me every step of the way. Her knowledge and connections with the local senior care communities were invaluable, and I was so thankful to have her help in finding the best place for my husband. ABC eased the stress and burden of managing my husband’s care and I can’t thank Sarah, Kaitlin, and the ABC staff enough. They are truly the Best.”

Ron A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am so grateful that our dear family member selected ABC at the beginning of her illness. Her disease progressed quickly after that and having done her research earlier allowed us to execute her plan at a critical time. It was a great comfort to her to be home in her final days, and the ABC care plan allowed the safe discharge that was necessary in order for her to go home. The expertise provided by Sarah in navigating the complex healthcare system during a difficult time was invaluable. If fact, it probably wouldn’t have happened without ABC. The caregivers were compassionate and attentive to her needs. There was always communication at the time of shift changes. All the staff at ABC considered the whole family situation while interacting with us.”

Teresa B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This company is hands down the best. Sarah and her staff went above and beyond, and I mean beyond, for my parents and family. I couldn’t ask for a more committed team. They made an impossible situation possible. Thank you Sarah and staff.”

Gayla M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am so grateful that our dear family member selected ABC at the beginning of her illness. Her disease progressed quickly after that and having done her research earlier allowed us to execute her plan at a critical time. It was a great comfort to her to be home in her final days, and the ABC care plan allowed the safe discharge that was necessary in order for her to go home. The expertise provided by Sarah in navigating the complex health care system during a difficult time was invaluable. in fact, it probably wouldn't have happened without ABC. The caregivers were compassionate and attentive to her needs. There was always communication at the time of shift changes. All the staff at ABC considered the whole family situation while interacting with us.”

Goddaughter
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sarah was totally amazing, efficient, and super helpful. She really knows her stuff, and answered all my questions. Then she sent out the caregiver, and I've never seen anyone accomplish so much in so few hours. I almost felt guilty with all the work she did. If only I could be that efficient (won't happen). I can highly recommend Always Best Care. Puts me more at ease knowing that when I need help, they'll be there. Thank you Always Best Care!!!”

stwlisa
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TESTIMONIALS

“We were referred to Always Best Care of Seattle 2 months ago by a family member who recently had surgery and raved about her excellent experience with them. My parents are homebound with very limited mobility. They want to stay in their condo as long as possible and we want to do all we can ensure they can safely do so. Always Best Care Seattle pointed out safety issues that needed immediate attention. These were issues neither my brother and I ever would have spotted. My parents currently have a caregiver a few days a week. The caregiver does their cleaning, laundry, preps meals for them, makes lunch and I’m sure many more things that I’m not aware of! Their home has never looked better (it actually sparkles)! Their caregiver always is on time (few minutes early actually) starts the day by sitting down with my parents and catching up and finding out what their priorities are for the day. Since they are homebound the social aspect is a really important part of their overall care. The caregivers have all been EXCELLENT. Each caregiver is very caring, loving and obviously love what they are doing. Any questions I have had (either for their caregivers or the ABCSEATTLE office staff-even the most random question they have had an answer for me or a suggested resource. As the level of care that they need becomes greater, ABCSEATTLE can assist us every step of the way. If they need care additional days, longer hours, help with bathing or dressing, drive to appts..they do it all. If they eventually need to move, they’ll take us to look at facilities and help us make the best decision for our family. We are beyond grateful to have found them!!!”

Robert W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We were referred to Always Best Care of Seattle 2 months ago by a family member who recently had surgery and raved about her excellent experience with them. My parents are homebound with very limited mobility. They want to stay in their condo as long as possible and we want to do all we can ensure they can safely do so. Always Best Care Seattle pointed out safety issues that needed immediate attention. These were issues neither my brother and I ever would have spotted. My parents currently have a caregiver a few days a week. The caregiver does their cleaning, laundry, preps meals for them, makes lunch and I’m sure many more things that I’m not aware of! Their home has never looked better (it actually sparkles)! Their caregiver always is on time (few minutes early actually) starts the day by sitting down with my parents and catching up and finding out what their priorities are for the day. Since they are homebound the social aspect is a really important part of their overall care. The caregivers have all been EXCELLENT. Each caregiver is very caring, loving and obviously love what they are doing. ♥️ Any questions I have had (either for their caregivers or the ABCSEATTLE office staff-even the most random question they have had an answer for me or a suggested resource. As the level of care that they need becomes greater, ABCSEATTLE can assist us every step of the way. If they need care additional days, longer hours, help with bathing or dressing, drive to appts..they do it all. If they eventually need to move, they’ll take us to look at facilities and help us make the best decision for our family. We are beyond grateful to have found them!!!”

J P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you! Very professional and knowledgeable. Wonderful experience.”

Tom M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We were referred to Always Best Care of Seattle 2 months ago by a family member who recently had surgery and raved about her excellent experience with them. My parents are homebound with very limited mobility. They want to stay in their condo as long as possible and we want to do all we can ensure they can safely do so. Always Best Care Seattle pointed out safety issues that needed immediate attention. These were issues neither my brother and I ever would have spotted. My parents currently have a caregiver a few days a week. The caregiver does their cleaning, laundry, preps meals for them, makes lunch and I’m sure many more things that I’m not aware of! Their home has never looked better (it actually sparkles)! Their caregiver always is on time (few minutes early actually) starts the day by sitting down with my parents and catching up and finding out what their priorities are for the day. Since they are homebound the social aspect is a really important part of their overall care. The caregivers have all been EXCELLENT. Each caregiver is very caring, loving and obviously love what they are doing. Any questions I have had (either for their caregivers or the ABCSEATTLE office staff-even the most random question they have had an answer for me or a suggested resource. As the level of care that they need becomes greater, ABCSEATTLE can assist us every step of the way. If they need care additional days, longer hours, help with bathing or dressing, drive to appts..they do it all. If they eventually need to move, they’ll take us to look at facilities and help us make the best decision for our family. We are beyond grateful to have found them!!!”

Julie V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We were referred to Always Best Care of Seattle 2 months ago by a family member who recently had surgery and raved about her excellent experience with them. My parents are homebound with very limited mobility. They want to stay in their condo as long as possible and we want to do all we can ensure they can safely do so. Always Best Care Seattle pointed out safety issues that needed immediate attention. These were issues neither my brother and I ever would have spotted. My parents currently have a caregiver a few days a week. The caregiver does their cleaning, laundry, preps meals for them, makes lunch and I’m sure many more things that I’m not aware of! Their home has never looked better (it actually sparkles)! Their caregiver always is on time (few minutes early actually) starts the day by sitting down with my parents and catching up and finding out what their priorities are for the day. Since they are homebound the social aspect is a really important part of their overall care. The caregivers have all been EXCELLENT. Each caregiver is very caring, loving and obviously love what they are doing. Any questions I have had (either for their caregivers or the ABCSEATTLE office staff-even the most random question they have had an answer for me or a suggested resource. As the level of care that they need becomes greater, ABCSEATTLE can assist us every step of the way. If they need care additional days, longer hours, help with bathing or dressing, drive to appts..they do it all. If they eventually need to move, they’ll take us to look at facilities and help us make the best decision for our family. We are beyond grateful to have found them!!!”

jdp1213
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Beat Care Is a 5 star. They give you the Best service with the personal touch. They go out of their way to help you. could not ask for more.”

Alex D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sarah was very kind and thoughtful of our situation as Mom was going through several issues due to aging. She was especially sensitive to our complicated blended family's needs. Sarah spent time with my mother and several of us in the family to build trust and confidence in all that she could help us with. Sarah went above and beyond to crunch numbers and find the information needed to know what options were available, so we could make informed decisions for Mom's health and comfort. Thank you, Sarah, and thank you, Best Care Services, for helping our mom and entire family. Your services helped us during a difficult time!”

Jody D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sarah & Elizabeth will Aways Best Care worked quickly to help us during a difficult time. It was wonderful to have their support during such an overwhelming time. Their collective knowledge helped us navigate an unknown landscape!”

Neha P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I initially talked to Best Care Senior Services when my wife was sick and needed to have a place to go with her medical issues. They were very responsive and helpful, providing us with several quality solutions. When my wife passed away, I became the client as I could no longer stay in my home due to my physical issues. Again they were very responsive and helpful. I just moved into the community we chose together and is has been a great experience. I whole heartedly recommend them to anyone who needs their expertise.”

Richard C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sarah and her team provided excellent guidance, compassion and advice during an extremely stressful time for our family. We were exploring Assisted Living options in Seattle as well as the Bay Area and I was especially impressed with how objective Sarah remained throughout this difficult selection process. I would highly recommend ABC for anyone needing short or long term solutions for themselves or a loved one. The expertise and support I received was unbelievably helpful and critical to helping us in the decision making process.”

Katherine B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I initially talked to Always Best Care of Seattle when my wife was sick and needed to have a place to go with her medical issues. They were very responsive and helpful, providing us with several quality solutions. When my wife passed away, I became the client as I could no longer stay in my home due to my physical issues. Again they were very responsive and helpful. I just moved into the community we chose together and is has been a great experience. I whole heartedly recommend them to anyone who needs their expertise.”

Richard C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I initially talked to Always Best Care of Seattle Metro when my wife was sick and needed to have a place to go with her medical issues. They were very responsive and helpful, providing us with several quality solutions. When my wife passed away, I became the client as I could no longer stay in my home due to my physical issues. Again they were very responsive and helpful. I just moved into the community we chose together and is has been a great experience. I whole heartedly recommend them to anyone who needs their expertise.”

RichardClarke
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TESTIMONIALS

“If you have never been through this process before with a loved one, you have no idea what the "ins" and "outs" of the process are. You can read about it, and you can watch a video about it, but you will not become an expert at it. Navigating the mine field of selecting a facility for the long-term care of a loved one requires experience, honesty, compassion, wisdom, patience, and impeccable communication skills. Sarah Cave, at Always Best Care - Seattle Metro, exceeded the expectations of my family in this endeavor. From my first contact meeting with Sarah on the phone to the final selection of the facility for our loved one, Sarah handled every step of the process with ease. At our first family zoom meeting to introduce Sarah to the family, she displayed an educated confidence that put the entire family at ease. We were left with no doubt that we had made the right choice to seek help with our search from Always Best Care - Seattle Metro and Sarah Cave. Thank you so much for your professionalism and honesty! Don Shogren”

Donald S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Sarah from Always Best Care Senior Services helped us find an adult family home for my mother in law. This was a very stressful time for our family, but through out the search process Sarah was awesome! Her hard work and expert guidance, as well as her kind and caring personality, relieved much of that stress and helped us find a great place for mom. I would highly recommend Sarah and Always Best Care.”

Kathleen S.
 In-Home Care Seattle, WA

How does In-home Senior Care in Seattle, WA work?

Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it's 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. When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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.

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 ages, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

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 Senior Care Seattle, WA

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.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a unfamiliar assisted living community, 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:

Comfort
Comfort

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, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old. With the help of elderly care in Seattle, WA, 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.

Healthy Living
Healthy Living

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.

Independence
Independence

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 an assisted living community. 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.

Cost and Convenience
Cost and Convenience

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 to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, can be 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 in Seattle, WA 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.

Empowers Seniors

Affordable Care Plans

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:

Veteran's Benefits
Veteran's Benefits

Aid and Attendance benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.

Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-Term Care Insurance

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.

Private Insurance
Private Insurance

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.

Life Insurance
Life Insurance

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.


Respite Care Seattle, WA

During your Care Plan consultation with Always Best Care, your Care Coordinator will speak with you about in-home care costs and what options there may be to help meet your budget needs.

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 Seattle,WA 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.

 Caregivers Seattle, WA

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 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:

An assessment of your senior loved one

01

An in-depth discussion of the needs of your senior loved one to remain in their own home

02

Reviewing a detailed Care Plan that will meet your senior loved one's needs

03

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.

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.

Latest News in Seattle, WA

Sources: Giants trade DL Leonard Williams to Seahawks

ReactionsLike598Wow31Interesting13Fire7Funny4Celebrate4The New York Giants are trading defensive lineman Leonard Williams to the Seattle Seahaw...

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The New York Giants are trading defensive lineman Leonard Williams to the Seattle Seahawks, sources confirmed to ESPN on Monday.

The Seahawks are sending a 2024 second-round pick and a 2025 fifth-round selection to the Giants, per the sources.

The Giants are taking on most of the $10 million owed to Williams, sources told ESPN's Jordan Raanan.

The NFL trade deadline is Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET.

The teams have not announced the trade, but Williams took to Instagram to say "it's been an honor" to be part of the Giants organization and to express his excitement at joining the Seahawks.

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A post shared by Leonard Williams (@leonardwilliams)

The trade comes a day after the Giants lost in overtime to the New York Jets to fall to 2-6, last place in the NFC East. The Seahawks, who defeated the Cleveland Browns to improve to 5-2, lead the NFC West.

The Seahawks have been getting strong play from defensive linemen Dre'Mont Jones and Jarran Reed this season, but they lacked depth behind those two and veteran Mario Edwards, and they needed another difference-maker upfront after losing outside linebacker Uchenna Nwosu to a season-ending pectoral injury in Week 7.

The Seahawks' trade for Williams marks the most significant deadline acquisition that general manager John Schneider and coach Pete Carroll have made since they added safety Quandre Diggs from the Detroit Lions in 2019.

On his Seattle Sports 710-AM radio show Monday morning, Carroll was asked whether the Seahawks would try to make an addition before the deadline.

"We're always competing," he said. "If there's a chance to do something, we're always available ... Johnny's on it."

The Seahawks have no more draft picks coming their way via the Russell Wilson trade last year with the Denver Broncos, but they acquired an extra 2024 third-round selection from another deal with Denver in April's draft, which helps offset the second-rounder they'll send to the Giants for Williams.

After the Seahawks beat the Giants in Week 4, Carroll praised the job Seattle's offensive line did against what he called the best group of interior defensive linemen they'd face all season, referring to Williams and Dexter Lawrence.

This move comes with the Giants struggling and looking to add resources for the future. Williams was in the final year of a three-year, $63 million deal signed in 2021. It was unlikely he was going to return next season at such a hefty price tag after the team committed to Lawrence this offseason.

Williams is one of several Giants players who have attracted interest before Tuesday's deadline, a source told Raanan. New York could make more moves, although the team told running back Saquon Barkley recently its intention was for him to not be traded.

Cornerback Adoree' Jackson and wide receiver Parris Campbell are two other potential trade options.

The previous Giants regime under Dave Gettleman traded for Williams from the Jets in 2019. It cost the team third- and fourth-round picks at the time.

Four years and one day later, Williams leaves New York for the first time in his career. He was drafted by the Jets sixth overall in 2015. The deal leaves a substantial void in the middle of the Giants' defense, which has been built around Lawrence and Williams in the past few years.

The Giants' defense will likely shift its concentration to Lawrence and outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux, who had three sacks Sunday against the Jets and has 8.5 this season.

Williams has 1.5 sacks this season and 39.5 in his career.

The trade was first reported by NFL Network.

ESPN's Brady Henderson contributed to this report.

UW Huskies edge Oregon for No. 5 spot in initial College Football Playoff rankings

The rankings don’t matter … until they do.For now, the undefeated 8-0 Washington Huskies — who play at USC on Saturday — maintain the only thing that matters is to win. If they do that, College Football Playoff seeding should essentially take care of itself.And yet, it’s worth noting that Washington was ranked No. 5 in the first weekly CFP rankings, released Tuesday. The Huskies trailed a quartet of other unbeatens — No. 1 Ohio State, No. 2 Georgia, No. 3 Michigan and No. 4 Florida ...

The rankings don’t matter … until they do.

For now, the undefeated 8-0 Washington Huskies — who play at USC on Saturday — maintain the only thing that matters is to win. If they do that, College Football Playoff seeding should essentially take care of itself.

And yet, it’s worth noting that Washington was ranked No. 5 in the first weekly CFP rankings, released Tuesday. The Huskies trailed a quartet of other unbeatens — No. 1 Ohio State, No. 2 Georgia, No. 3 Michigan and No. 4 Florida State. They narrowly bested No. 6 Oregon for the second time this season, after picking up a 36-33 win in Seattle on Oct. 14.

“If you watched Washington against Arizona State and Stanford, they struggled,” ESPN’s Joey Galloway said. “So if you looked at these teams and said, ‘Who looks like the better team today?’ it would absolutely be Oregon. But Washington did beat them, so they’re five and Oregon’s six.”

Added CFP selection committee chair Boo Corrigan: “You had a little bit of concern from the committee as it relates to the Arizona State game at home [a 15-7 UW win] and the Stanford game on the road [a 42-33 UW win], two teams with a combined four wins. Again, as we’re looking at this, the 13 of us came to the conclusion that we got it right today.”

Concerning UW edging Oregon, Kalen DeBoer would certainly agree.

During the same CFP rankings show, DeBoer — UW’s second-year coach — joined the program to discuss his team. When asked about the Huskies’ “non-dominant” wins over ASU and Stanford, DeBoer said: “Internally, just like many other teams, you’re in the grind of the season, and you’re working through things within your team that I feel we’re going to come out on top of as we continue to move forward, health being one of them.

“We were in this spot a year ago, as far as grinding through the middle part of the season. November was a good month for us as we regained health and continued to build on what the identity of our football team is.”

Of course, the Huskies have won 15 consecutive games since falling to ASU on Oct. 8, 2022. That streak will be tested in November — as Washington meets No. 20 USC (7-2), No. 18 Utah (6-2), No. 16 Oregon State (6-2) and Washington State (4-4) to close its campaign.

Washington can secure its standing, and quell the committee’s concerns, in the next four weeks.

“I think [this ranking] is exactly that. It’s initial,” DeBoer said. “As quickly as the season’s going by, there’s a lot of football to be played. From our standpoint, we’ve done what we’re supposed to do, as far as winning all the football games.

“We’ve got some quality wins in there. But the Pac-12 right now, with the slate of games from top to bottom, there’s no gimmes. This next month for us is going to be a big month, so there’s a lot of football left to be played.”

The Husky defense needs all hands on deck Saturday against USC.

But are reinforcements on their way?

After missing UW’s past two games because of a leg injury, senior defensive lineman Tuli Letuligasenoa is expected to return. Without Letuligasenoa — who also played sparingly against Oregon on Oct. 14 — UW surrendered 477 rushing yards, 4.5 yards per carry and six rushing touchdowns in its past three games.

When asked specifically what Washington has lacked, co-defensive coordinator William Inge said: “You have the junkyard dog. Truly, that’s what he [Letuligasenoa] is when he’s on the football field. When you have a guy in the middle that can lock everything down and you have someone who is really, really, really mature in the game, he understands what’s going to happen. He sees what’s going on in the backfield.

“From a maturity standpoint, that’s probably one of the biggest things you’re going to lack — just his in-game feel for everything that’s going on. So hopefully he’ll be someone we’ll get back this week.”

Elsewhere, UW safeties Asa Turner, Kamren Fabiculanan and Vincent Nunley all sat out against Stanford, prompting sophomore Makell Esteen to make his first career start (beside sixth-year senior Dominique Hampton). DeBoer said Monday that Turner and Fabiculanan are considered day to day, and Nunley is unlikely to be available against USC.

One goes in.

Two go out.

Washington’s wide-receiver carousel continued against Stanford, as senior Giles Jackson missed the game because of an ankle injury and junior Jalen McMillan briefly returned, before aggravating a left-leg issue.

But UW did benefit from the return of sophomore Germie Bernard — who, after missing the ASU game because of an ankle injury, contributed three catches for 43 yards Saturday.

“I’ve got so much trust in Germ,” UW offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said. “He just does such a great job of being ready. He’s definitely one of the guys I highlighted [after the game]. What a great job of preparing all week like you’re going to play the game. Some guys can be hurt and not prepare themselves for the football game and just kind of accept where they’re at, and I thought exactly the opposite of Germie. He fought every day.

“[The doctors] were like, ‘Ah, I don’t know if he’s going to go.’ Then I remember me and [wide-receivers coach JaMarcus Shephard] talking Friday at the walk-through like, ‘I think Germ should come with.’ He just did an awesome job of being ready and honestly filling in in some spots where he hadn’t been playing a bunch. So just an incredible job, and that’s what you expect out of the guys on a championship caliber football team.”

As for Jackson — who missed UW’s first five games because of a torn thumb ligament, then played against Oregon and ASU — some assumed he sat out Saturday to help preserve his redshirt. With players permitted to participate in four games (plus the postseason) while still using a redshirt season, UW’s coaches are considering limiting the senior’s workload so he can return in 2024.

But Grubb said “he was nursing an ankle [injury], so he wasn’t able to go. He didn’t practice all week. So we’re still dealing with that a week at a time. Right now we’re going to see what he can do out there tomorrow and then make the decision on the USC game.”

Jackson’s status for the remainder of the season is equally unclear.

“When we get to the fourth game [he plays in] and we’re full, we’ll have to have harder conversations at that point,” Grubb said. “He’s been great, and he’s willing and ready to help the team when his body’s able to.”

Mike Vorel: [email protected]; on Twitter: @MikeVorel. Mike Vorel is the UW football beat writer for The Seattle Times.

UW football notes: Michael Penix Jr. ‘back to himself’; Jalen McMillan aims to return

Michael Penix Jr.’s opposition Saturday was inward and outward, all at once.The sixth-year senior quarterback and Heisman Trophy hopeful completed 21 of 37 passes for 369 yards with four touchdowns and an interception in No. 5 Washington’s 42-33 win over Stanford. He did so while battling the flu.“Even in the beginning of the game he was still fighting,” UW offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said Monday. “He just did a great job. He knew he was sick. He had battled through it during the week, and esp...

Michael Penix Jr.’s opposition Saturday was inward and outward, all at once.

The sixth-year senior quarterback and Heisman Trophy hopeful completed 21 of 37 passes for 369 yards with four touchdowns and an interception in No. 5 Washington’s 42-33 win over Stanford. He did so while battling the flu.

“Even in the beginning of the game he was still fighting,” UW offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb said Monday. “He just did a great job. He knew he was sick. He had battled through it during the week, and especially early in the week he was certainly weak. But he knew he had to be out there [at practice] to get the reps and get the knowledge of what we were running and the coverage schemes and things like that. So I thought he battled his butt off and did a great job of just putting himself in a position to play a great game.”

Granted, it wasn’t Penix’s greatest game, marred by uncharacteristic misses in an underwhelming road win. But Penix and Co. did enough to extend a 15-game winning streak and preserve a No. 5 national ranking. He’ll need to be better against No. 24 USC — and reigning Heisman quarterback Caleb Williams — on Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

But Grubb said Penix’s illness didn’t affect his approach to the Stanford game.

“I didn’t feel like there were throws we had to stay away from or anything like that,” he said. “It was more of just thinking about ways to keep Mike from being taxed. Even in practice, there were some times where [backup quarterbacks Dylan Morris and Austin Mack] had to take extra reps that they wouldn’t normally take to keep Mike as fresh as we could and limit his reps and how much he had to exert himself during the week. But he did a great job. He fought through it. There was really very little adjustment to what we had to do.”

Grubb also confirmed that other UW players were battling illness as well. He said “it’s that time of year. I can remember going to the Washington State game last year, and I wanted to fly separately. That’s about what it is. So everybody take a little vitamin C in the morning and drink a lot of water.”

UW coach Kalen DeBoer said the team has thus far avoided bouts with COVID-19.

Through eight weeks, Penix — a Tampa product and Indiana transfer — has completed 68.8% of his passes and thrown for 2,945 yards with 24 touchdowns and six interceptions. He torched Oregon for 302 yards and four touchdowns in UW’s only previous matchup with a ranked opponent two weeks ago.

Penix needs to play like himself Saturday.

But first, he has to feel that way.

“He was really good [Sunday]. That was the best I’ve seen him in probably 10 days, honestly,” Grubb said. “Yesterday in meetings he seemed really upbeat and just seemed like he was in a good spot. He was back to himself.”

Jalen McMillan has twice tried to return from a left-leg injury sustained against Michigan State on Sept. 16.

Those returns didn’t take.

After missing UW’s wins over Cal and Arizona, the junior wide receiver started against Oregon … but aggravated the injury after only seven snaps.

On Saturday — after sitting out against Arizona State — McMillan returned again against Stanford, only to exit after 12 more snaps. He limped to the sideline and sat on the bench, staring at the ground, clutching his left knee.

“He was emotional. It’s been really hard on him,” Grubb said. “I’m not saying J-Mac’s never been hurt. He’s obviously been injured. But just having to fight through some of this and find a way to be out there … obviously he’s had two different games where he’s tried to do that and get out on the field and stay out there. His body just hasn’t allowed that to happen for him.

“He wants to be out there. He wants to make an impact and help us win games, and he certainly can. We miss him. Obviously JP [Ja’Lynn Polk] and Rome [Odunze] are phenomenal, and Germie [Bernard] and all the guys are great. But J-Mac is his own kind of guy. His ability to separate versus man coverage is elite. He knows that, and he knows we’re better with him out there. So it’s hard on him. It’s really hard.”

Meanwhile, McMillan’s future availability — with Washington preparing for consecutive ranked matchups against No. 24 USC, No. 18 Utah and No. 16 Oregon State — is decidedly unclear. Grubb shared that “I talked to [senior associate athletic trainer Daren Nystrom] yesterday, and they did strength tests again. He’s doing good. It’s just with some of the cuts, he’s so violent at the top end of his routes that it produces a lot of stress on his joints. So with some of that, when he doesn’t feel the stability … until he can really feel 100 percent on that we’ll have to wait and see.

“So we’re still hopeful he’s going to get out there again, try the brace on his knee and see what happens.”

The 6-foot-1, 192-pound McMillan produced 20 catches, 311 receiving yards and four total touchdowns in the first two-and-a-half games this fall. Considering McMillan’s NFL aspirations, DeBoer was asked whether they’d considering shutting their standout wide receiver down for the remainder of the season.

But the Fresno, Calif., product is determined to return.

“It’s all just game by game, because he’s really close. It’s day to day with him,” DeBoer said. “[We’re] just trying to figure out exactly how to get him over the hump. He wants to be out there as bad as anyone. He’s a big-time competitor. He knows how important he is to our football team, so whatever we can do to get him out there as quick as possible and feel good about it, we’re all for it.”

Last offseason, it was widely assumed McMillan — who posted 79 catches, 1,098 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2022 — would dominate this fall, then coast to the NFL. And though that may still be the result, the junior has one year of remaining eligibility, should he decide instead to return in 2024.

“I’m sure that does weigh on him,” Grubb said. “We check in with him. [Wide receivers coach JaMarcus Shephard] and myself talk to him a lot about those things, without trying to predict what’s going to happen or force him into one lane. We just want him to know we support him and love him and are going to help him any way we can.”

Mike Vorel: [email protected]; on Twitter: @MikeVorel. Mike Vorel is the UW football beat writer for The Seattle Times.

How the country's largest ferry system is going green

The country's biggest ferry system is going electric in what local off...

The country's biggest ferry system is going electric in what local officials hope is an early step toward decarbonizing the broader maritime industry.

What's happening: Washington State Ferries — the largest U.S. ferry system by ridership, carrying more than 17 million people last year and about 24 million annually pre-pandemic — is working to shift to a zero-emissions fleet by 2050.

Driving the news: Work began about two months ago to convert the first of Washington's ferries to hybrid-electric power, with two more conversions planned through 2025.

Why it matters: In Washington state and nationwide, the transportation sector is the largest source of greenhouse gas emissions, which drive climate change.

What's next: The agency plans to electrify eight of its 10 ferry routes over the next 14 years, which requires building 16 new hybrid-electric ferries.

Yes, but: Electrifying the ferry fleet is projected to cost about $4 billion.

The big picture: Other efforts are underway to reduce boat emissions in the Pacific Northwest.

Plus: A new Pacific Northwest hydrogen hub — funded by $1 billion from the 2021 federal infrastructure law — could help develop cleaner fuels to replace the dirty bunker fuel typically used in commercial shipping.

The challenge in mandating electric heating in Washington state

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has pledged — along with other governors — to quadruple the number of electric ...

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee has pledged — along with other governors — to quadruple the number of electric heat pumps in U.S. homes by 2030, calling them "almost a miraculous solution" in the fight against climate change.

Why it matters: Government officials see electric heat pumps as a crucial tool for decarbonizing buildings, which produce an estimated 25% to 28% of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions globally.

Yes, but: New building codes that would have required most new buildings in Washington state — both commercial and residential — to use electric heat pumps were shelved a few months before they were set to take effect in July.

The latest: Washington state officials are now pursuing a different strategy for residential and commercial buildings that doesn't strictly require heat pumps in new buildings.

Of note: The building codes apply to new construction and wouldn't require homeowners or owners of existing commercial buildings to make retrofits.

The other side: Some in the building industry still think the proposed rules will limit access to natural gas for cooking and increase the prices of new homes. And they're not certain that they resolve the legal issues raised in the Berkeley case.

What's next: Public comment is being accepted through Nov. 22 on the new building code language.

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