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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 Darien, CT

Home Care Darien, CT

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

However, as seniors grow older, completing daily tasks like showering and enjoying activities such as visiting the historic Boston Post Road Historic District gets harder without someone by their side. Unfortunately, many older Americans aren't able to rely on their adult children for help. The reality in today's world is that family members do not have the skills or time to dedicate to caring for their parents. That's where Always Best Care Senior Services comes in.

Our in-home care services are for people who prefer to stay at home as they grow older but need ongoing care that family or friends cannot provide. More and more older adults prefer to live far away from long-term, institutionalized facilities and closer to the place where they feel most comfortable - their home. Home care in Darien, CT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Darien, CT

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“I’ve booked back-up care for my two young children multiple times with ABC, and will continue to reach out to them first any time I have care needs. Not only was my caregiver great, but the service and care I got from Alan was above and beyond. He is so responsive, invested and attentive - feel like I’m working with a friend/family. They really care about their care recipients and make you feel like a VIP. The caregiver we were assigned was not only sweet and warm, but she wouldn’t sit still and made sure she was always doing something helpful. Couldn’t be happier with the company or caregiver, and will work with them anytime the need arises.”

J G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I booked Always Best Care through my Company's "Back Up Care" benefit. My Company's "Back Up Care" can be a little tricky to use and sometimes difficult to get the care properly confirmed. I reached out to Alan the day before my booking and he did a tremendous job at making sure that I had appropriate care for my 5 month old and that I wouldn't have to stress. Our actual caregiver, Chyna was great. She arrived on time, was knowledgable, respectful, and friendly. We had no worries leaving our 5 month old in her care. I'd book with Always Best Care again.”

Kristen S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Alan is always there for us at all times with amazing care givers. He manages changes and last minute needs as though our family member is his family. He is also there in person to make sure everything is going smoothly.”

Suzanne D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Alan’s responsiveness in arranging home care far exceeded expectations. The home health aide is amazing as well. Thank you ABC for providing exceptional service!!”

Richard C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We had a lovely experience with Celenis! The company quickly swooped in to support us with childcare and she went above and beyond caring for our son permitting us to focus at work!”

Lara K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“In what was a tremendously difficult last few years caring for my mom with dementia, we burned through multiple agencies and aides. Only at the end did we find unmatched compassion and competence with Alan and his team of aides at Always Best Care. A lot of times the whole experience felt overwhelming, disjointed and end of life care system just plain broken. They were the one shining bright spot. Our family would recommend them in the highest order.”

steven G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a 5 star company. Their name is perfect. Always Best Care. The care givers for my mom in her final months were gracious, considerate, compassionate and professional. I spoke with Alan many times telling him how thankful i was to have him and the outstanding service his company provided to my mother. My highest recommendation to Alan and his staff at Always Best Care.”

Kenneth B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I highly recommend Always Best Care. We needed someone to help mom get back on her feet again after hip surgery and to be her companion for three weeks during Covid quarantine as she moved from rehab center back to her senior living apartment. All services were provided with the highest level of kindness, compassion and dignity and we are truly grateful for the help.”

Gregg F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Amy Crowley at ABC Senior Services did a terrific job helping me find a suitable assisted living place for my Mom. She presented an array of good choices, gave me some very good advice about things to look for when I checked them out, responded quickly and completely to every question I had, and did all of this in the hurry done urgent circumstances required. No hard sell, just good knowledgeable work.”

Robert G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Professional and reliable in-home caregivers”

Keisha H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Professional and reliable in-home caregivers.”

Deirdre B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Please welcome the newest Connecticut office of Always Best Care to Norwalk and Lower Fairfield County. If you know a loved one in need of care, please visit our website or call us anytime for a free no-obligation expert consultation.”

Alan L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent!”

Abu Y.

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

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Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in America. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.

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At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.

 Senior Care Darien, CT

Types of Elderly Care in Darien, CT

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Darien, CT
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Darien, CT
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Baker 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 Darien, CT
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Restaurant L'Ostal or visit Bates-Scofield House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

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

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

 In-Home Care Darien, CT

Benefits of Home Care in Darien, CT

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.

In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.

Here are just a few of the reasons why older men and women prefer to age at home:

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

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

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

For many seniors, the ability to live independently with assistance from a caregiver is a priceless option. With in-home care, seniors experience a higher level of independence and freedom - much more so than in other settings like a nursing home. When a senior has the chance to age in place, they get to live life on their own terms, inside the house that they helped make into a home. More independence means more control over their personal lives, too, which leads to increased levels of fulfillment, happiness, and personal gratification. Over time, these positive feelings can manifest into a healthier, longer life.

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

With Always Best Care's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.

 Elderly Care Darien, CT

Affordable Care

In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.

Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.

At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.

In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your CT's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Darien, CT

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers.

When you or your senior loved one needs assistance managing daily tasks at home, finding a qualified caregiver can be challenging. It takes a special kind of person to provide reliable care for your senior loved one. However, a caregiver's role involves more than meal preparation and medication reminders. Many seniors rely on their caregivers for companionship, too.

Our companion care services give seniors the chance to socialize in a safe environment and engage in activities at home. These important efforts boost morale and provide much-needed relief from repetitive daily routines. A one-on-one, engaging conversation can sharpen seniors' minds and give them something in which to be excited.

At Always Best Care, we only hire care providers that we would trust to care for our own loved ones. Our senior caregivers in Darien, CT understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

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

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

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Darien, CT

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Darien, CT

At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.

Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.

Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:

  • The Residence at Selleck's Woods
  • Maplewood at Darien
  • Atria Darien
  • At Home In Darien
  • Darien Senior Programs
Home Care Darien, CT

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Darien, CT

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced Always Best Care Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.

If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Darien, CT 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

When you're ready, we encourage you to contact your local Always Best Care representative to set up a Care Consultation. Our Care Coordinators would be happy to meet with you in person to get to know you better, discuss your needs, and help put together a personalized Care Plan specific to your needs.

 Elderly Care Darien, CT

Latest News in Darien, CT

Nominations Open For YWCA Of Darien/Norwalk's Women Of Distinction Awards

The awards will honor women who demonstrate exceptional leadership in community service and/or their careers.Richard Kaufman, Patch StaffDARIEN, CT — The YWCA Darien/Norwalk this week announced the opening of nominations for the 16th annual Women of Distinction Awards, a celebration honoring women whose leadership, dedication, and contributions to the Darien and Norwalk communities reflect YWCA’s work to create...

The awards will honor women who demonstrate exceptional leadership in community service and/or their careers.

Richard Kaufman, Patch Staff

DARIEN, CT — The YWCA Darien/Norwalk this week announced the opening of nominations for the 16th annual Women of Distinction Awards, a celebration honoring women whose leadership, dedication, and contributions to the Darien and Norwalk communities reflect YWCA’s work to create a more unified, connected and empowered community.

The awards will honor women who demonstrate exceptional leadership in community service and/or their careers. Additionally, the YWCA will recognize a Young Woman of Distinction - an individual under 21 years old, who exemplifies a strong commitment to service and leadership within her community.

"Each year, we are inspired by the incredible impact so many women have on our community," said CEO of YWCA Darien/Norwalk Jennifer Buchholz in a news release. "Over the years, we’ve honored dozens of remarkable women who have shaped our neighborhoods, uplifted others, and created meaningful change. We are looking forward to celebrating another outstanding cohort of women who continue to exemplify the very best of our community."

Who Should You Nominate?

The YWCA encourages the community to nominate women who exemplify the very best of the community, serving as leaders, role models, and mentors - oftentimes going above and beyond to make a difference. Past honorees have included leaders like Dr. Katie Takayasu, Connecticut State Senator Ceci Maher, Dr. Amanda Craig, Allegra Erikson, Susan Daly, Armel Jacobs, and many others whose commitment to service and excellence have shaped the community for the better.

Find out what's happening in Darienfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

How to Submit a Nomination

Nominations are being accepted through Friday, Feb. 14. To nominate someone, complete the online nomination form here.

Selection Process and Event Details

All nominations will be reviewed by the YWCA Women of Distinction Nominating Committee, and the honorees will be announced in early March. This year's event will be a luncheon on Friday, June 6, at Shorehaven Country Club in Norwalk.

Darien Superintendent's Proposed $125M Budget Would Cut Gifted Program

Darien Public Schools' gifted program and 15 elementary paraprofessionals would be cut under the superintendent's proposed $125M budget.Richard Kaufman, Patch StaffDARIEN, CT — Superintendent of Darien Public Schools Dr. Alan Addley unveiled his proposed $125 million budget for 2025-2026, and among several cuts is the elimination of the district's gifted program and the reduction of 15 elementary paraprofessionals....

Darien Public Schools' gifted program and 15 elementary paraprofessionals would be cut under the superintendent's proposed $125M budget.

Richard Kaufman, Patch Staff

DARIEN, CT — Superintendent of Darien Public Schools Dr. Alan Addley unveiled his proposed $125 million budget for 2025-2026, and among several cuts is the elimination of the district's gifted program and the reduction of 15 elementary paraprofessionals.

In an email to district families last Friday afternoon, Addley said the district "is facing significant recurring operating expenses, driven by collective bargaining agreements that support staff retention and recruitment, escalating health insurance premiums, increased transportation, and special education costs."

To find efficiencies, Addley is proposing to cut 3.3 full-time equivalent staff positions in IDEA Program - Interesting Dimensions that Extend Abilities - for an estimated savings of $469,015.

The program currently serves 237 students. Grades 2-5 have two 45-55 minute pull-out sessions per six-day cycle, while grades 6-8 have two 42-minute sessions per week during lunch.

"We will be serving our students in a different capacity," Addley told the Board of Education during his budget presentation on Jan. 2. "It's not ideal in the sense of, it's a different way of doing something given the challenge that we have before us. But our responsibility is to meet the needs of all of our kids in the classroom without necessarily being pulled out, and that's what we'll do under this particular program."

Find out what's happening in Darienfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

According to Addley, other ways of providing services to students in the program include differentiated practices, curricular extensions, school-wide enrichment, extracurricular opportunities, and more professional learning for teachers.

Another notable proposed cut is the elimination of 15 instructional paraprofessionals at the elementary level for an estimated savings of $1.1 million.

There are three paraprofessionals at each elementary school, and they primarily assist Kindergarten and first grade classrooms, Addley said. They assist with supervision at recess, in the lunchroom and during arrival and dismissal.

The paraprofessionals also provide teacher coverage, something Addley said is "a growing issue."

"That's getting away from the role they ordinarily are used for and should be used for," he told the school board. "That's a very expensive model for doing substitute teacher coverage."

Paraprofessional duties would be covered by two student interns per school, Addley said.

During the public comment portion of the Board of Education's Jan. 2 special meeting, several speakers spoke against the two proposed cuts.

"We've lost our way as a school district," said Darien Education Association President Barry Palmer. "The budget unveiled tonight not only fails to make our students a top priority, it actually puts their needs last. The elimination of instructional aides is penny-wise and pound-foolish. It will result in an increase of students who need special education services and add costs to already one of our largest drivers of the budget. It's the opposite of sustainability."

On the IDEA Program, Palmer called the proposed cut "a betrayal of what Darien Public Schools represents." He said the district should be "embarrassed" for considering such a cut.

"We need leadership from the board, our students deserve better, this community deserves better," he added.

William DeRocco, a Darien High School graduate and a former student in the IDEA Program, has a PhD in theoretical physics from Stanford University and is currently a scientist at the University of Maryland. He said he was recently selected to help lead NASA's next flagship mission.

"When I was asked this year at Thanksgiving what I was grateful for, I told my family that I was thankful for the IDEA Program, because I had been reflecting about it. I truly believe it has prepared me and provided me with the skills I needed to accomplish my ambitions," DeRocco said.

"I am very, very troubled that IDEA may be cut. If we want the Darien Public Schools system to continue to be a place where all students can thrive and build the skills necessary to achieve their dreams, the board should seriously reconsider this proposed cut."

Addley's full proposed budget can be found here.

The Jan. 2 special meeting can be viewed on-demand on DarienTV79

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Where To Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2024 In And Around Darien

Here are a few events happening in and around Darien to help you ring in 2025.Richard Kaufman, Patch StaffDARIEN, CT — As 2024 comes to a close, residents are looking for ways to celebrate and ring in the new year.There are several options in the Darien area for welcoming in 2025, from going out to a local restaurant to catching a comedy show in nearby Stamford.Here are a few events happening in and aro...

Here are a few events happening in and around Darien to help you ring in 2025.

Richard Kaufman, Patch Staff

DARIEN, CT — As 2024 comes to a close, residents are looking for ways to celebrate and ring in the new year.

There are several options in the Darien area for welcoming in 2025, from going out to a local restaurant to catching a comedy show in nearby Stamford.

Here are a few events happening in and around Darien:

Elsewhere in Connecticut, First Night Hartford returns with a family-friendly, alcohol-free New Year's Eve celebration that features fireworks, music, art, and food in the state's capital city.

In the United States, one of the most popular New Year’s Eve traditions is the dropping of the giant ball in New York City’s Times Square. Other U.S. cities have their own versions of this celebration, such as the Peeps Chick Drop in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and the giant Potato Drop in Boise, Idaho.

Find out what's happening in Darienfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The transition from one year to the next is often marked by the singing of “Auld Lang Syne,” a Scottish folk song whose title roughly translates to “days gone by,” according to Encyclopedia Britannica and History.com.

The tradition of New Year’s resolutions dates back 8,000 years to ancient Babylonians, who made promises to return borrowed items and repay debts at the beginning of the new year, which was in mid-March when they planted their crops.

According to legend, if people kept their word, the pagan gods would grant them favor in the coming year. However, if they broke their promises, they would lose favor with the gods.

Many secular New Year’s resolutions focus on imagining new, improved versions of ourselves.

The failure rate of New Year’s resolutions is about 80 percent, according to U.S. News & World Report. There are many reasons, but a big one is they’re made out of remorse — for gaining weight, for example — and aren’t accompanied by a shift in attitude or a plan for coping with the stress and discomfort that comes with changing a habit or condition.

Darien Hires New Town Administrator

DARIEN, CT — The Board of Selectmen on Monday night unanimously voted to appoint current Darien Finance Director Jennifer Charneski to the role of town administrator.Charneski fills the vacancy left by Kathleen Buch, who left town in September to become the town administrator and chief operating officer in Greenwich.Darien First Selectman Jon Zagrodzky said the town launched a "thorough&quo...

DARIEN, CT — The Board of Selectmen on Monday night unanimously voted to appoint current Darien Finance Director Jennifer Charneski to the role of town administrator.

Charneski fills the vacancy left by Kathleen Buch, who left town in September to become the town administrator and chief operating officer in Greenwich.

Darien First Selectman Jon Zagrodzky said the town launched a "thorough" search process led by a professional search firm to find Buch's replacement.

"It gave us a chance to really see what talent was out there from different parts of the country," Zagrodzky said Monday night during the selectmen's regularly scheduled meeting. "Quite a number of people applied. They had a tremendous amount of expertise and background, and I think in the end we had nearly 20 applicants for the role and considered closely four or five of them as part of our process."

Charneski stood out from the rest of the field, Zagrodzky said.

Find out what's happening in Darienfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

"Despite all the expertise and horsepower we had a chance to see, we came to a unanimous conclusion as a board of selectmen that the absolute best candidate for that job is our current director of finance and now new town administrator, Jennifer Charneski," Zagrodzky said. "I'm beyond excited to have you in this capacity."

Charneski came to Darien in 2015 from New Canaan, where she served as budget director and comptroller. She previously worked in finance for the town of Hamden.

According to the town of Darien website, the town administrator provides staff assistance to the board of selectmen and the first selectman, makes policy recommendations, acts as an advisor and informational resource, carries out board directives and policies, and coordinates the efforts of town departments.

Administrative areas of responsibility include budget development, performance measurement and evaluation, grant administration, program review, insurance administration and purchasing.

The selectmen on Monday welcomed Charneski to her new role and expressed excitement to work with her in the future.

"It's been a great pleasure and privilege to serve with you these last couple of years," Selectman Michael Burke said. "I really look forward to seeing you achieve and grow in your new role. We have every confidence in you."

Charneski briefly thanked the board following her appointment.

Monday's Board of Selectmen meeting was held virtually and is available to watch on demand on Darien TV79.

Darien Men's Association Raising Money For Local Residents This Month

Information via Darien Men's AssociationDARIEN, CT — As part of their ongoing commitment to community service, the Darien Men’s Association is once again “ringing the bell for Darien Human Services” in front of Palmer’s grocery store during the holiday season.This fundraiser has been a long tradition for the DMA and has grown from two days on one weekend in mid-December to four days on two consecutive weekends.Donation collection occurred on Dec. 14-15, and will continue this weeken...

Information via Darien Men's Association

DARIEN, CT — As part of their ongoing commitment to community service, the Darien Men’s Association is once again “ringing the bell for Darien Human Services” in front of Palmer’s grocery store during the holiday season.

This fundraiser has been a long tradition for the DMA and has grown from two days on one weekend in mid-December to four days on two consecutive weekends.

Donation collection occurred on Dec. 14-15, and will continue this weekend, Dec. 21-22.

Thanks to Palmer’s generous donation of the space in front of their store, and the generosity of their shoppers, the amount collected to provide aid to Darien residents in need of food, energy support, clothing, household products and much more has grown from $1,000 to $5,000 over the past few years. With the addition of a fourth day this year, the hope is that this will grow even higher.

Find out what's happening in Darienfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

As costs remain high for many goods and services, the need for support has never been greater. Ali Ramsteck, the director of human services for Darien, recently spoke to the DMA about her department, the many programs it supports, and the ongoing need for economic assistance. All the money collected at Palmer’s stays within Darien to help residents in need.

The DMA was established in 1977 to provide a forum for retired and semi-retired men to find good fellowship, friendship, and fun via a range of activities to nourish body and mind and provide service to the local community. The group is associated with the Darien Community Association and conducts its general meetings at the DCA’s Meadowlands facility every Wednesday morning from Labor Day through Memorial Day.

DMA members also meet in smaller groups at other times to participate in a wide range of community service, social, athletic, and cultural activities.

The highlight of the Wednesday meetings is the speaker program that features talented speakers from all walks of life. Recent speakers have addressed sports, entertainment, history, health and well-being, education, world affairs, government, literature, art and business.

The DMA currently has 350 members from Darien and surrounding communities. It continues to grow and welcomes those interested in joining to contact the organization at [email protected].

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