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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 Monument Valley, UT

Home Care Monument Valley, UT

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 Monument Valley 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 Monument Valley, UT is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Monument Valley, UT

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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

“MUST READ!! This is the best company to hire for your loved ones who need ongoing caregiver and companion services. Very thoughtful and experienced caregivers and admin staff who care deeply about the details and about customer satisfaction. Brent and Lea have been incredibly supportive and flexible, and caregivers Aarylyn, Sabrina, Lydia, and Hailie have been accommodating, patient, professional and safe. They regularly take my loved one on outings in the community to help her claim her independance and have become a vital part of her healthcare and happiness. LOVE THIS PLACE!!”

Jackie J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a caregiver with ABC, and I am so happy with the company!! They are so flexible and understanding with my schedule:) such genuine people and the clients are amazing!! They truly embody the name of the company... Not just for the clients but also for their employees???? it makes for an amazing place to work ????”

Rebecca E.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I have Always Best Care Serving Southern Utah for my husband. We got somebody coming in to help. The caregivers are good. They provide total a.m. care help like getting up and getting dressed. We have different ones and so they're trying to get us some steady people coming in. The scheduling is a little bit hard right now. The care has been good, though.”

Loretta
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a current client of this provider I have Always Best Care Serving Southern Utah for my husband. We got somebody coming in to help. The caregivers are good. They provide total a.m. care help like getting up and getting dressed. We have different ones and so they're trying to get us some steady people coming in. The scheduling is a little bit hard right now. The care has been good, though.”

Loretta
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TESTIMONIALS

“Absolutely the best company here in St George! The care goes above and beyond what any family could ever ask for when handling care. They only have the best of the best caregivers that love to help! Their training and communication is top notch. Love this company! I refer all my friends and family! Couldn’t be more proud of an exceptional company!”

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TESTIMONIALS

“i’ve been working for ABC for about 6 months now & love it! they’re super flexible & have true love & passion for helping others!”

lydia T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I've been with ABC 3 years now. They have been gracious and kind whenever I have had to change my schedule or not be able to work a shift. They make me feel like family, and they strive to help the clients feel the same. We love our clients, caregivers and staff.”

TheXploringKay O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Love working here! Brent and lea are so sweet and understanding towards everyone! They work very hard! Great pay and amazing communication!”

aaralyn G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a great company to work for if you’re interested in a flexible schedule. Management is so supportive and will do what they can to make everyday at work a good day. They communicate effectively and quickly to ensure nothing is miscommunicated or misunderstood. Working here as been so rewarding and educational.”

Mckinlye G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care of Southern Ut is a great company. In November I will have worked with them for three years. I am a senior myself and absolutely love working with them. They always try to make sure the client and the caregiver have a good relationship with each other. They are family owned and genuinely care about both client and employees.”

Helen M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I work for Always Best Care and it's amazing they really do care for their clients and they'll go the extra mile to meet their needs ! Not only that but they care for employees i love the flexibility they give us.”

Aly T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has definitely been a blessing to our little familys life. As an employer of ABC they have been amazing with flexibility in chosing my schedule so that not only am I able to work but also be home with my kids when I need to be. They are amazing and put their employees first. I love being a member of ABC team.”

Falelua A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“1. Stay active. Exercise may be the last thing you want to do when your arthritis hurts, but many studies show that physical activity is one of the best ways to improve your quality of life. 2. Eat a balanced diet. Studies show that a variety of nutrients may help ease arthritis symptoms. 3. Lose weight. Being overweight puts undue strain on weight-bearing joints such as your knees, spine, hips, ankles, and feet. 5. Use hot or cold packs. By increasing blood flow, hot compresses can ease pain and stiffness. 6. Keep pain under control. Over-the-counter medications can help ease arthritis pain. 7. Talk to your doctor about supplements and complementary medicine. Many supplements have been tested for the treatment of arthritis. 8. Try splints, braces, and other aids. Devices that support painful joints, such as splints, braces, and canes can help ease your discomfort and prevent injury. 9. Seek support. Living with arthritis isn’t easy. Finding other people that you can talk to and share ideas with can help. Check out arthritis support groups online or in your area. 10. Stay positive. Your mental outlook can have a big impact on how you feel, and how well you function. #SelfCare #Osteoarthritis #Arthritis #Disability #GoodHealth #PainRelief #SeniorCommunity #Caregiver #Caregiving #WECANHELP #OlderAdult #SeniorCare #SeniorLiving #SeniorServices #SeniorHousing #AlwaysBestCare #Exercise #SelfManaging #Tips”

Always B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has some of the friendliest staff. They are quick to learn & eager to assist. Great schedulers who are on top of managing the schedules & keeping their employees accountable. I sure appreciate all the help they give!”

AsAn
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has some of the friendliest staff. They are quick to learn & eager to assist. Great schedulers who are on top of managing the schedules & keeping their employees accountable. I sure appreciate all the help they give!”

Audrey S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I can leave a long review if I wanted to . I can talk about always best cares credentials and talk about mine. But What’s the point of leaving a review if it sounds like everybody else’s. The bottom line is , that they are great at their jobs from the bottom to the top. They have a process and people in place . They keep accountability and are communicative . Ive represented many companies in the past and still do till this day contract with only the best.. If you feel you want to hear more about this company on a deeper level just lmk. Happy Healthy Safe”

Jay R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I like working for ABC because it works well with my busy nursing school schedule! I also like how I get to work on my own, but there are options to work with other CNAs for the care of some of the clients. It’s the best of both worlds! I’ve been with Always best care since 2021 and have thoroughly enjoyed working with the clients I work with!”

Olivia S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Love always best care ❤️”

Breezy H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Amazing business. Staff are helpful and kind.”

Margot K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care is always best!!! Highly recommended! Brent listens and hears what we need for my 94 year old mom and matches caregivers accordingly. Sometimes, the schedule changes and he works to fill the needs immediately and always with a great attitude! The caregivers are compassionate. Again, I highly recommend Always Best Care.”

shell S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“They are seriously so amazing to work with and really care for their clients. I came to them with some pretty difficult challenges that I was not sure we could work with but they were able to make it happen and truly did more than I thought was even possible. I highly recommend them.”

Mandy M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Love working for this company”

Christina P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great to work with, caring, compassionate and willing to work with different situations! They take time to understand needs to accommodate the best way to help! They are trustworthy, dependable and a business you can count on!!????”

M S.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Monument Valley, UT?

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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 Monument Valley, UT

Types of Elderly Care in Monument Valley, UT

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 Monument Valley, UT
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 Monument Valley, UT
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 Monument Valley KOA Journey 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 Monument Valley, UT
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 Goulding's Stagecoach Dining Room or visit John Ford Point, 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 Monument Valley, UT

Benefits of Home Care in Monument Valley, UT

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 Monument Valley, UT, 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 Monument Valley, UT

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 UT'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 Monument Valley, UT

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 Monument Valley, UT 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 Monument Valley, UT

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 Monument Valley, UT

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:

  • Summit Vista
  • Escalante at Willow Creek
  • Crescent Senior Living
  • Monument Assisted Living
  • Meadow Peak Rehabilitation
  • Oljato Senior Center
Home Care Monument Valley, UT

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 Monument Valley, UT

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 Monument Valley, UT 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 Monument Valley, UT

Latest News in Monument Valley, UT

Monument Valley Park closed out of respect for solar eclipse

By Kianna Joe | Oct 12, 2023 | News |MONUMENT VALLEY, Utah – Out of respect for the solar eclipse on Saturday there will not be a Navajo park employee in sight from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Monument Valley.Louise Tsinijinnie, the media representative for Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation, said the park’s closure is due to Diné trad...

By Kianna Joe | Oct 12, 2023 | News |

MONUMENT VALLEY, Utah – Out of respect for the solar eclipse on Saturday there will not be a Navajo park employee in sight from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Monument Valley.

Louise Tsinijinnie, the media representative for Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation, said the park’s closure is due to Diné tradition.

“There was no decision-making. It was an immediate decision. Like this is what we’re going to do at this time; we’re going to remain in reverence with it,” said Tsinijinnie.

Jóhonaa’éí daazts??

The decision to close the park wasn’t hard to figure out because it’s a traditional Diné belief taught throughout the Navajo Nation and something Tsinijinnie said she and other Navajo employees were raised on. “We are following what we know,” she said.

Tsinijinnie said as she was raised, she was taught to be respectful during a solar eclipse. She was taught that the eclipse is not for viewing nor something for Diné to see. The eclipse is a powerful astronomical event that shouldn’t be viewed out of respect.

Tsinijinnie was taught that the time of the eclipse is a rebirth and a revival of living things on Mother Earth, Nahasdzáán and that it’s not a negative or wrong thing to not look at the eclipse. It’s a positive event taking place.

Tsinijinnie said others may believe it’s bad because Navajos don’t look at the eclipse. But she wants to restate that belief because Navajos don’t think it’s bad. They want to respect the event.

‘Aa hasti’

Tsinijinnie said so far, the park visitors have understood the closure and know that they can go elsewhere to view the solar eclipse.

Monument Valley Park will be closed during the solar eclipse, as will all Navajo Nation Parks and Recreation locations. The employees will also be inside their offices or buildings to avoid seeing the eclipse.

The closure of the park during solar eclipses is not new. Tsinijinnie said the park has always respected traditional beliefs like not viewing the eclipses.

“All of our locations are on the Navajo Nation. Being a sovereign entity, we can create our own laws and practices,” said Tsinijinnie.

Those laws and practices include traditional customs and teachings. So far, Tsinijinnie said there has not been any backlash but more acknowledgment that the Navajo Nation park services staff will stay true to who they are first: Navajo.

“I wouldn’t look at it as a negative thing. I’m looking at it as positive,” said Tsinijinnie.

The solar eclipse is such a sacred moment to Diné. Tsinijinnie said she was taught Navajos aren’t supposed to look at it. She’s shocked when she hears others say they will buy glasses or telescopes to look at it.

Six years ago, when a solar eclipse took place in the afternoon, Tsinijinnie recalled an elder who told her he was feeling the side effects of being outside during the eclipse.

“I was like, ‘What? How do you know it’s from the eclipse?’ And he said, ‘It’s because my skin is hot, it feels hot,’ and I was just like, ‘Wow, this is definitely something you need to be in reverence about,’” said Tsinijinnie.

Beliefs, teachings

Like many Diné, Tsinijinnie said she learned these beliefs from her parents and grandparents, but other families may have learned other things, and it’s not all the same way of practicing the observance.

While Monument Valley Park will be closed during the eclipse, Gouldings Monument Valley Lodge is advertising “deluxe” and air flight tours to view the “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity firsthand.

After eight telephone calls to Gouldings Lodge, there was still no comment provided by the lodge.

Despite efforts by outsiders and their organizations to profit off an event like the solar eclipse, traditions remain strong among Diné.

Monument Valley to close during solar eclipse Saturday, honoring Indigenous tradition

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MONUMENT VALLEY, Utah — Many residents of northern Utah will flock to the southern part of the state, just to catch the solar eclipse Saturday morning. Others will stay indoors, honoring centuries of tradition.

For generations and generations, Diné people have been honoring their connection to nature during solar eclipses, according to Angelo Baca, the cultural resources coordinator for Utah Diné Bikéyah.

“We actually have been doing this before America was America, and we'll keep doing it long after this moment,” he said.

Baca says they stay inside every year, not looking at the sky out of respect. For that reason, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park will be closed on Saturday, despite being in the path of the eclipse.

“The solar eclipse is an indication of how the celestial beings and bodies that are beyond us in this world give us a sense of how small we are and how humble we should be as human beings,” said Baca.

Bears Ears National Monument will be open and is expecting up to 20,000 visitors, said Semira Crank, the program director of Visit With Respect.

“We would like visitors to be cautious about where they're going, including not dispersed camping on tribal nations, just because it's illegal, and to be mindful about parking on dirt roads because those dirt roads actually lead to someone's property,” she said.

While on public lands, Cranks says visitors should remember they are treading on sacred ground.

“We don't want visitors to put their fingertips on rock imagery because the oils on our fingers can cause it to degrade over time,” she said.

Even if your head is turned to the sky Saturday, Baca asks Utahns to respect what’s beneath our feet.

“People will spend a lot of money,” he said. “They'll travel, they'll trample plants and beautiful ecological landscapes and areas that they probably shouldn't be milling around in and even risk hurting their own eyes and their own bodies and trying to look at this thing that they consider to be beauty. But the beauty has always been there.”

Copyright 2023 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Announces Closure For ‘Ring Of Fire’ Solar Eclipse

Updated on September 30 to confirm the closure of Four Corners Navajo Tribal Park on the morning of October 14.Will Monument Valley be open for the ...

Updated on September 30 to confirm the closure of Four Corners Navajo Tribal Park on the morning of October 14.

Will Monument Valley be open for the “ring of fire” solar eclipse on Oct. 14? No—the iconic destination within the Navajo Nation on the Arizona-Utah border will be closed for five hours over the “ring of fire” annular solar eclipse, it has been confirmed. Other parts of the Navajo Nation will also be closed during the event.

A public notice dated Friday, Sept, 15 is now displayed on the website of the Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park that reads:

“Please Be Advised the Navajo Tribal Parks will be in observance of the Eclipse on October 14, 2023 in regards to cultural beliefs during the eclipse. Navajo Tribal Parks will be Closed from 8:00 am and will reopen at 1:00 pm.”

That includes both Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and the Four Corners Navajo Tribal Park.

Monument Valley Tribal Park is part of the Navajo Nation in northeastern Arizona, northwestern New Mexico and southeastern Utah. There are around 400,000 tribal members.

In an email from Navajo Nation Parks a spokesperson also confirmed that the management office at the Tséyi’ Diné Heritage Area-Cottonwood Campground (TDHA-CC) within Canyon de Chelly National Monument will also be closed between 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Navajo Cultural Beliefs

In Navajo culture, the event is called jóhonaa'éí daazts?? (“the sun is dead”) and sees the rebirth of the sun after the event. Many Navajo people will be inside fasting and praying. Expect local businesses to be closed and follow the Visit With Respect guidelines.

The letter from Adeline Tohannie, Park Manager at Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, goes on to say that the 17-mile scenic drive and park will be closed, with a few staff who are willing to work observing and enforcing park closure.

Home to iconic sandstone “mittens,” the solar eclipse will occur between 9:10 a.m. MDT and 12:01 p.m. MDT on Oct. 14, with the “ring of fire” visible from the area for 4 minutes 16 seconds at 10:29 am MDT, according to Timeanddate.com. Solar eclipse glasses must be used to observe the entire event.

Scenic Locations

Monument Valley Tribal Park is one of dozens of scenic locations in the Four Corners region—where Utah, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico meet—in the narrow 125 miles wide path from where the “ring of fire” will be visible. The path stretches from Oregon through Texas, though most Americans will see a partial solar eclipse.

Nearby Goulding’s Lodge will be open and have glasses on sale for both lodge guests and visitors. Another location close to Monument Valley Tribal Park that will definitely be open for the eclipse includes Goosenecks State Park, which will be staging a Ring of Fire Fest event ($5) with telescopes, solar binoculars, food booths and some free solar eclipse glasses.

Note: when visiting backcountry locations expect facilities and resources to be few. Be prepared and bring everything you need—a full tank of fuel, food, cash, toilet paper, ice—because it may not be available in your location. Also, in this high elevation region it’s wise to wear sunscreen and drink a lot of water—dehydration is a constant risk.

I’m an expert on eclipses—the editor of WhenIsTheNextEclipse.com and author of The Complete Guide To The Great North American Eclipse of April 8, 2024. For the very latest on the “ring of fire” solar eclipse—including travel and lodging options—check my main feed for new articles each day.

Wishing you clear skies and wide eyes.

Navajo Nation to close Monument Valley during eclipse in line with cultural practices

Estimated read time: 3-4 minutesMONUMENT VALLEY, Navajo Nation — As many southern Utahns and tourists prepare to flock to the great outdoors to view a solar eclipse in October, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and other parts of the Navajo Nation will largely be shuttered.Monument Valley and the 17-mile scenic drive through the park will be closed for a minimum of five hours...

Estimated read time: 3-4 minutes

MONUMENT VALLEY, Navajo Nation — As many southern Utahns and tourists prepare to flock to the great outdoors to view a solar eclipse in October, Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and other parts of the Navajo Nation will largely be shuttered.

Monument Valley and the 17-mile scenic drive through the park will be closed for a minimum of five hours (8 a.m. to 1 p.m.) on Oct. 14, during the annular eclipse. Park management made the decision to respect traditional Navajo beliefs and practices surrounding eclipses.

"There are a few staff who are willing to working during this time. They will be observing and enforcing park closure," Park Manager Adeline Tohannie said in a public memo. "Tour operators, if you have booked a tour for that day, you may continue with your tour. However, there is no booking in the parking lot during the time the park is closed. Park staff will not let anyone enter the park during the closure. We have received many calls letting callers know the park is closed during the eclipse."

Traditionally, Diné people have passed lunar and solar eclipses by staying inside, praying, fasting and avoiding looking at the sun; sleeping, brushing one's hair or washing themselves. Those who don't observe the practices are said by tradition to experience eye problems, sunburns, rashes, digestive problems, migraines and, for pregnant women, prenatal problems. The end of an eclipse is marked by meals and offerings of corn pollen, which symbolizes renewal and rejuvenation.

"During the eclipse, we must be in full prayer and reverence. Prayers must be focused on the concept of the sun or moon going through an ending, and we are to pray about the ending of bad or evil, or the ending of phases of life," the Institute for Diné Culture, Philosophy and Government said in a statement. "In addition, our prayers must be focused on the birth and renewal that will arrive when the eclipse ends. Moreover, prayers must be about a better future.

"Most of the time, we pray for and about ourselves and loved ones. It is advocated that prayers during an eclipse must mostly be about this creation: the ending, renewal and the future of this creation and the divine presence. If we know the songs for use during eclipses, those songs can be sung at that time."

In Diné teachings, the sun, referred to as Jóhonaa'éí, is the most powerful deity and controls and regulates the universe. Meanwhile, the moon, or T?'éhonaa'éí, is the sun's female pair who regulates the earth. Many Navajos believe both a birth and death take place during the eclipse.

"The sun is vested with the concept of and in control of death (anoonéé?), and the moon is vested with and in control of birthing (oochíí?). When a solar or lunar eclipse occurs, it is believed that a death occurs," the institute said. "A death is a very sacred occurrence. There are certain necessary protocols, but most important is the strict and comprehensive reverence in observing the occurrence of death (yéego dílzin dóó hodílzin)."

The Institute for Diné Culture, Philosophy and Government said it is also believed the sun and moon are mating during an eclipse. The product of that intimate act is a birth or renewal and realignment of all of creation.

"Due to the very sacredness of death and birth, the reverence required to be shown during an eclipse is very strict and comprehensive (ts'ídá yéego hodílzin). There is only one way to be reverent during an eclipse. No shortcuts exist. We cannot simply smudge ashes or corn pollen upon ourselves and exit our homes and carry on as if it is just another day," the institute stated. "The Diné Institute is merely sharing our sacred and still relevant cultural teachings. An individual always has a choice to observe or not to observe the eclipse."

The Diné Institute's full statement can be read on Smithsonian Magazine's website.

Hotel In Monument Valley Invites Tourists To Visit Reservation, Drawing Criticism From Community

The Navajo Nation has taken drastic steps to fight COVID-19, which has already taken more than 250 tribal members’ lives. Hotels on the Navajo Nation are only allowed to house essential workers, and the Nation’s president, Jonathan Nez, has also asked tourists to stay away.That’s why Sheena Cly Wahid was surprised to see an advertisement on Facebook for a hotel in Monument Valley called Goulding’s Lodge. The post encouraged people to visit the lodge for Memorial Day Weekend, while the rest of the reservation wa...

The Navajo Nation has taken drastic steps to fight COVID-19, which has already taken more than 250 tribal members’ lives. Hotels on the Navajo Nation are only allowed to house essential workers, and the Nation’s president, Jonathan Nez, has also asked tourists to stay away.

That’s why Sheena Cly Wahid was surprised to see an advertisement on Facebook for a hotel in Monument Valley called Goulding’s Lodge. The post encouraged people to visit the lodge for Memorial Day Weekend, while the rest of the reservation was on lockdown due to a 57-hour curfew. (The weekend curfews were in place for eight weeks before Nez lifted them on Wednesday.)

“We’re living in a time, especially on the reservation, where they’re in a state of emergency,” Wahid said. “So generally people don’t want tourism happening right now.”

Wahid lives in Phoenix but grew up in Monument Valley where she still has family, including an uncle who passed away last month due to COVID-19. She posted her concerns on Facebook, and the post drew over 80 comments — many from community members who agreed that the hotel should not be operating at this time.

“To be advertising ‘Come have fun, have adventures,’ when people are dying around here, my family members and friends, they’re not taking [our safety] into consideration,” said Dawnae Ashkii, who lives in Monument Valley and saw Wahid’s post.

But the hotel is located on private property surrounded by the Navajo Nation, so it doesn’t have to abide by the Nation’s laws. Instead, it’s under the jurisdiction of San Juan County, which is in the yellow, low-risk phase of Utah’s reopening plan. Under the yellow phase, businesses can fully reopen if they follow recommended measures.

But there are 47 active COVID-19 cases in Monument Valley right now. That’s 40 times higher than the rate of the state.

“It’s tough having overlapping jurisdictions,” said San Juan Health director Kirk Benge. He added that San Juan County is responsible for inspecting Goulding’s restaurant and has set operating guidelines for businesses in the county, which Goulding’s agreed to follow. But he doesn’t know if San Juan County could force the hotel to close, nor does he think they should have to.

“The reality is Goulding’s has always been a very good partner in working to protect public health,” he said.

But the head of the local government, Oljato Chapter President James Adakai, has said the business should comply with the Navajo Nation’s health orders, which would only allow Goulding’s to house essential workers.

“Goulding’s needs to comply with the [Navajo Nation] executive orders and public health orders,” Adakai wrote on Facebook. “Weekend lockdown, weekly curfew 8 p.m.-5 a.m., halting tour operations, social distancing, disinfecting stores, restaurants at the curb.”

Gov. Gary Herbert also weighed in on the issue of San Juan County’s overlapping jurisdictions in a press conference last week.

“We would strongly encourage any Utahns that live close to the border or on the reservation to follow all the tribal health directives,” Herbert said, adding “if you’re on the Navajo Nation lands you need to follow their directives, not the Utah directives, which could be different.”

While Goulding’s is not fully following the Navajo Nation’s guidelines, the lodge is taking more precautions than are required by the state of Utah, according to marketing director Monica Lafont.

She said the hotel is working with the Navajo Nation Department of Public Health and has decided to keep doing take-out only at its restaurant, despite the fact that they could do dine-in service under Utah’s guidelines. The hotel is also resting rooms for at least 24 hours between guests in an effort to keep them safe.

“We’ve spent hundreds of dollars on chemicals and [personal protective equipment] to keep people safe,” Lafont said. “So when everyone wants to yell at us it’s like, ‘You don’t know the whole story.’”

Community members, including Ashkii, have also raised concerns over a KOA campground and RV park located a few miles north of Goulding’s. On Monday, there were at least six RVs at the park, and staff and guests in the gift shop weren’t wearing masks. Partial-owner David Laws declined to comment on which guidelines his business is following.

Kate Groetzinger is a Report for America corps member who reports from KUER's Southeast Bureau in San Juan County. Follow Kate on Twitter @kgroetzi

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