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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 Wayland, MA

Home Care Wayland, MA

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 Noyes-Parris House 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 Wayland, MA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Wayland, MA

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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

“Good morning Michael. Thank you for your condolences. I also want to thank you for your services. Your girls were wonderful and very caring. They absolutely made my mother's last month of life so much more comfortable. Even my siblings were happy with them and that's not easy to do.”

Peter B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you so much for taking care of my mother. The caregivers were lovely.”

Migdalia C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I contacted Always Best Care in an emergency situation and they were wonderful! They worked out complicated, last-minute schedules and provided as much consistency as possible. The aides were skilled and treated my mother with compassion and dignity. Mom's condition changed rapidly and they supported her through all her varying needs. We are so grateful for all their help!”

Pam M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you so much for the wonderful and professional care for my father that was given by your agency. The fact that you were always available for my family was the reason we signed on. But we stayed because your staff of case managers and CNA’s were so devoted to my dad. Especially Kim, Edith, Joyce and Ana. We have already given your company’s name to a friend whose mother is coming home with hospice. It was a pleasure to recommend your company.”

Cheryl M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Christodia has been great! A big help in a time of need. Again thanks so much, and we will definitely use ABC again as my parents needs arise.”

David L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Dear Always Best Care, Thank you so much for your help with my mom. I appreciate your kindness and care working with her.”

G. T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Kim, I just want to thank you so much (again) for doing such an awesome job for our family. My dad appreciates the efforts you put in to keep consistency of care for him. We all do!”

Christine R.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Jennifer was/is a star, Josephine was caring and responsive, and it was great working with Kim. I’ll always be grateful to Jennifer for stepping up during my mother’s first weeks back from rehab when she so needed someone kind and able to help her with her emotional and physical needs. And I always appreciated Kim’s patience with my many texts and phone calls (hi, Kim!).”

Barbara B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care provided home care services to my mother while she lived in an independent living facility. They were highly professional, reliable and my mother looked forward to their visit every day”

Brian
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TESTIMONIALS

“I have worked for ABC for some time. The senior staff is easy to work with. They are kind and respectful. They make you feel like you are family. They appreciate the work you do and make you feel great about the job you are doing.”

Margaret K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you for all of the help that you provided to my dad. We appreciate the help and sensitivity that you showed to all of our family”

L.G
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TESTIMONIALS

“My mom was having a hard time understanding what was happening by the time the aides came into her house but I was very impressed with both Diana and Jennifer with their patience and understanding. I think they both were in a pretty good place with her when she passed”

Kevin O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“We THANK YOU and the Team that provided care for Mom and Dad - they both are now at peace.”

Kevin M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Many thanks to you and your staff for the kind words and exceptional care and concern that was shown to Jim over these past 10 months. Special thanks to Diane Ponce who became our friend. We will always be grateful for her kindness and support. She is a true care-giver and Jim always looked forward to her visits.”

Carol D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“All of you at Always Best Care have been so wonderful with our family. I really felt as though we were your only client because all of you were so responsive to our needs. It has been a joy to have wonderful aides who helped our dad. Those hours of the day helped all of us tremendously. Juana was so wonderful with our Dad. She is so caring and sweet and she really enjoyed being with our dad. Kim and Jessica worked tirelessly at finding coverage for our dad and I so appreciate that!”

Lisa G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Dear ABC, Kim is a master schedular if ever there was one. I appreciate her patience in dealing with my mom’s every changing schedule. Her job is not easy, and she does a great job”

Karen C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Dear Always Best Care, thanks to everyone for their compassion and treating Bob with dignity. A special thanks to Dorothy and Esther.”

Clair H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thanks so much for the wonderful care takers. Mathis and Nana were so, so helpful and caring.”

Helen V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thank you so much for the care that Burt got from all of your caregivers. I felt it was so important for him to be cared for at home. It made me feel better.”

Nesha, L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I want to thank you so much for your incredible generosity & thoughtful care for my dad. I don't know how we would have managed without you! You gave such peace of mind. Dad was also clearly relieved & comfortable when you arrived. You had a gentle way with him that he so appreciated. You gave him dignity & made him feel cared about. Thank you so much for you kindness to our mom, too - you were able to keep her calm in a way no one else could. Please know how important your work & generosity you demonstrate through it is - to our dad, our family & I'm sure to all families that you touch.”

Ellen V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My family was very fortunate to have Janz and Nancy taking care of my father. Thank you and Mary Ann for introducing these two wonderful ladies to us. My father enjoyed their companionships, having them reading to him and discussing current events. We all took comfort he was well taking care and that he passed away on his own terms painlessly and peacefully. Thanks you again for all your support.”

James
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TESTIMONIALS

“Hi Michael, I heard about how you came through for our client this weekend. Thank you! If we have any other needs here, yours will be the FIRST place we recommend! I'm impressed! Thanks again!”

Beth
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TESTIMONIALS

“I just want to thank you again for being there so quickly when we were looking for in-home care for my mother, and for matching her up with Valerie, who by the way was so caring and professional. I have put your name out there for anyone in need of care and please tell Valerie we love her and thank her.”

Patti B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care has been wonderful. Quality caregivers, thoughtful placement”

Howard &.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I want to thank you for providing the best care for my father. Nana and Lee are wonderful caregivers. They provided love and kindness to my father right up to the very end. My father could be difficult at times, I know, but they hung in there. I am so grateful for everything they did for him.”

Ringer H.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Wayland, MA?

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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 Wayland, MA

Types of Elderly Care in Wayland, MA

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 Wayland, MA
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 Wayland, MA
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 Heard Farm Wayland MA 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 Wayland, MA
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 The Villa Restaurant or visit Wayland Historical Society, 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 Wayland, MA

Benefits of Home Care in Wayland, MA

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 Wayland, MA, 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 Wayland, MA

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 MA'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 Wayland, MA

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 Wayland, MA 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 Wayland, MA

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 Wayland, MA

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:

  • Carriage House at Lee's Farm
  • The Residence at Paine Estate
  • Sunrise of Wayland
  • Wayland Nursing & Rehab Center
  • Extended Family of Wayland
  • Whitney Place Assisted Living and Memory Care
Home Care Wayland, MA

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 Wayland, MA

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 Wayland, MA 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 Wayland, MA

Latest News in Wayland, MA

Jackson Belsan (5 TD’s) leads Scituate past Wayland, 47-36

SCITUATE — For Scituate’s football program, one player has played the role of catalyst all year long, and he was back at it Friday.Senior quarterback Jackson Belsan finished 13-for-17 passing, racking up 266 yards to go with five touchdowns as seventh-seeded Scituate held on for a 47-36 victory over No. 10 Wayland in the opening round of the Division 4 football playoffs.Like many expected, this game had the makings of a classic during the first half. After Scituate (6-3) drew first blood on a 19-yard touchdown strik...

SCITUATE — For Scituate’s football program, one player has played the role of catalyst all year long, and he was back at it Friday.

Senior quarterback Jackson Belsan finished 13-for-17 passing, racking up 266 yards to go with five touchdowns as seventh-seeded Scituate held on for a 47-36 victory over No. 10 Wayland in the opening round of the Division 4 football playoffs.

Like many expected, this game had the makings of a classic during the first half. After Scituate (6-3) drew first blood on a 19-yard touchdown strike from Belsan to Lawson Foley, the Sailors watched their advantage evaporate, rapidly. Max Dressens broke off a 53-yard touchdown scamper 1:28 later, tying the score at 7-all. The schools would trade scores one more time, with Alex Burrill scampering for a five-yard touchdown for Scituate to cap the quarter.

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Scituate , MA - November 3: Scituate’s #21 William Robinson breaks through Wayland’s line during the first half. (Matt Stone/Boston Herald)

With 9:57 left in the first half, Wayland’s Michael Caulfield sprinted six yards for a touchdown, tying the score again at 14-14. By then, Sailors fans had started to reside themselves to the fact they might be in for a long night.

Then, the levee collapsed on Wayland. Just 31 seconds after the Warriors (6-3) evened the score, Belsan uncorked a 39-yard touchdown strike to Charlie Hartwell, as Scituate jumped right back in front. The Sailors would find luck on special teams as well 2:08 afterwards, as Roman Glowac returned a blocked punt 18 yards for a score with 7:15 to play in the second quarter, as Scituate extended its edge to 28-14.

“First and second quarter, it was back and forth,” Belsan said. “We were kind of nervous, but then we just started running our plays, doing what we do out there perfectly. We started taking shots, and that was just working.”

The momentum swing proved monumental, and the Sailors continued to ride the wave as they tallied 26 unanswered points against the Warriors.

While Wayland staged a rally as the second half progressed, the deficit was simply too great of a hole to climb out of. After the Warriors cut it as close as 40-30 off a 40-yard touchdown rush by Caulfield, Belsan iced the game on the next possession by connecting with Allard for a 39-yard score, sealing things as Scituate made it 47-30 with 3:10 left.

“We love that play,” Belsan said. “We run it everyday at practice, every game. We knew it was going to work. I saw that there was no high safety, and I just knew it was there.”

Allard finished with three receptions for 114 yards and two touchdowns for Scituate, while Foley added four catches for 61 yards and a pair of scores.

Max Dresens turned in 18 carries for 138 yards and two touchdowns for Wayland.

The win sets up an Elite Eight showdown with a familiar postseason opponent for Scituate – No. 2 Holliston. The programs will meet for a chance to play in the Final Four next.

“It’s funny, because the head coach at Holliston (Todd Kiley) and I laughed,” Scituate coach Herb Devine said with a chuckle. “It seems like every year, somehow we find each other in an early round. Obviously, they’re a great program. Tons of tradition, great coaches, great atmosphere, great players. We’ve had to see them four out of the last five years I feel like, during the playoff run. We’re going back there again.”

Wayland teachers bargained for a raise. What voters can do to let them have it sooner.

WAYLAND — A Special Town Meeting on Wednesday will ask voters to weigh in on a single warrant article: whether to approve immediately funding a 3.25% cost-of-living increase negotiated by local teachers and secretaries and the School Committee, rather than wait until next spring's annual Town Meeting.Citing precedent and expense, town officials are on record as opposing the p...

WAYLAND A Special Town Meeting on Wednesday will ask voters to weigh in on a single warrant article: whether to approve immediately funding a 3.25% cost-of-living increase negotiated by local teachers and secretaries and the School Committee, rather than wait until next spring's annual Town Meeting.

Citing precedent and expense, town officials are on record as opposing the proposal.

Wednesday's Special Town Meeting is scheduled to start at 6:45 p.m. inside Wayland High School's auditorium.

Back in June, the School Committee agreed to new contracts with the Wayland Teachers Association and the Wayland Educational Secretaries Association. The new contracts had a start date of July 1.

However, funding for the contract has to be approved by Town Meeting, and that wasn't scheduled to happen until May 2024. That meant the two unions would not be getting the cost-of-living increase guaranteed by the contract until nearly a year after the pact went into effect, according to Sarah Sontag, president of the Wayland Teachers Association.

"I think everyone teachers and the support staff all need this COLA (cost of living adjustment) because the cost of living has gone up so much," said Sontag, who works as a reading specialist at the Loker School.

Citizens petition leads to Special Town Meeting

A citizens petition led by the two educational associations has led to a Special Town Meeting article requesting the contract funded now, rather than wait until May.

The Select Board, during its meeting on Nov. 20, voted unanimously not to support the article. In a statement, the board said a memorandum of understanding between the two sides spelled out how and when funding would go into place.

“The salary increases set forth above for Fiscal Year 2024 will not be implemented until after Wayland Town Meeting approves a transfer of funds from Salary Reserve Account to the School Department budget to cover the cost of increases," according to the memorandum. "The Wayland School Committee agrees to request such approval by Wayland Town Meeting, at the earliest time Wayland Town Meeting convenes during Fiscal Year 2024.”

Select Board opposes Special Town Meeting article

The Select Board, in its statement, said members took that to mean next spring's annual Town Meeting.

“My interpretation of the MOU language is that both sides came to an agreement, a meeting of the minds, that once a Town Meeting is scheduled, whether it be a fall Town Meeting or Annual Town Meeting, that would be the time at which a contract funding article would be proposed," Select Board member Tom Fay said in the statement. "To diverge from that timeline is problematic. Union contracts are often negotiated during all twelve months of the year. It would be far too expensive for the town, in terms of staff time and Town Meeting costs, to hold a Special Town Meeting after each union contract is agreed upon. So much of what we do is based on process and, in this case, I feel that process has been compromised.”

Sontag said the teachers association never hid from the fact that it planned to petition for a Special Town Meeting, given that the contract would not be funded for 11 months if it waited until annual Town Meeting.

Teachers always planned to ask for Special Town Meeting

"In our MOA, it was clear that we would ask at the earliest Town Meeting that the money would be transferred over," said Sontag. "It was always our intention to seek a Special Town Meeting. The MOA said it would be at the earliest Town Meeting and we knew we would be asking for a Special Town Meeting."

The association got the required 200 signatures to call for the meeting, then went back to get 100 of those same people to add the secretaries' association to the article to allow them to also get funding.

In its statement, the Select Board said its objection isn't about not fulfilling the contract but following procedure.

"Annual Town Meetings normally cost between $40K - $45K," according to the town's statement. "Special Town Meetings are somewhat less expensive. Nonetheless, board members collectively agreed that between the costs of conducting Town Meeting and the need to adhere to process and procedures, this was a warrant article they simply could not support."

Norman Miller can be reached at 508-626-3823 or [email protected]. For up-to-date news, follow him on Twitter @Norman_MillerMW or on Facebook at facebook.com/NormanMillerCrime.

Multiple explosions reported, firefighter injured as fire rips through building in Wayland

WAYLAND, MASS. (WHDH) - A Wayland business complex became an inferno Tuesday afternoon after a large fire broke out, spreading to a parked car and setting off multiple explosions.The fire sent a cloud of oppressive, chemical-filled smoke over the area before sunset on Tuesday. Hours later, firefighters were still on scene around 9 p.m., spraying down hotspots and assessing damage.Everyone inside the complex was able to get to safety on their own, according to Wayland fire officials. One firefighter suffered a leg injury after t...

WAYLAND, MASS. (WHDH) - A Wayland business complex became an inferno Tuesday afternoon after a large fire broke out, spreading to a parked car and setting off multiple explosions.

The fire sent a cloud of oppressive, chemical-filled smoke over the area before sunset on Tuesday. Hours later, firefighters were still on scene around 9 p.m., spraying down hotspots and assessing damage.

Everyone inside the complex was able to get to safety on their own, according to Wayland fire officials. One firefighter suffered a leg injury after tripping over a fire hose.

Wayland’s fire chief said the fire started shortly before 4 p.m. in an auto body shop bordered by a restaurant and a dry cleaning facility.

SKY7-HD flying over the scene soon captured video of the fire as firefighters sprayed water from multiple angles shortly after 4 p.m.

Within 45 minutes, much of the auto body shop had collapsed.

Fire Chief Neil McPherson said crews arrived on scene less than a minute after the fire was reported. Despite the rapid response, McPherson said there was already heavy smoke and flames billowing from the back of the auto body shop when firefighters arrived.

McPherson said crews had to contend with multiple sparking utility lines and a transformer that exploded. Ultimately, the chief said, crews cut power to the area.

The Wayland Fire Department in a statement said fire officials made the decision to take a defensive approach to their fire response, fighting the fire from positions outside the building “due to multiple explosions inside the building.”

McPherson credited firewalls on either side of the auto body shop with helping prevent the fire from spreading to the rest of the building.

“We think it’s going to be largely contained to that area,” he said of the auto body shop.

Still, McPherson said crews would check other sections of the structure.

McPherson continued, saying “our concern becomes the structural integrity of the building given the heat.”

With crews still on scene Tuesday evening, witnesses described the initial fire response.

Jeff Horan said he had been on his back porch when he started to smell what he thought was a fire. He said he walked to get a better view and saw smoke.

Horan said he then rushed to talk to workers at the auto body shop who told him to call 911.

“It just accelerated from there,” Horan said of the fire. “It just took off like a wildfire.”

Horan said he heard “a lot of explosions.”

Oliver Ahearne, who lives nearby, said the fire was “really scary for a lot of people in the neighborhood.”

While the cause of the fire remained unknown as of Tuesday night, its impact was already being felt.

“It’s an unfortunate loss,” Horan said. “This is Main Street Wayland, Cochituate Village. Everyone comes to these businesses, so we’re going to miss this.”

The Wayland Fire Department in its statement Tuesday night said firefighters from seven area communities responded to the scene to provide mutual aid during this fire response. Firefighters from three other communities covered Wayland fire stations.

The fire department said the fire was brought under control around 7 p.m. and said the fire’s cause remained under investigation.

(Copyright (c) 2023 Sunbeam Television. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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Indigenous Music, Facial Surveillance, Joy Harjo: Wayland Library Week

See what the library is planning this week for kids, teens, adults, babies and beyond.WAYLAND, MA — Here's what's happening at the Wayland library over the week of Nov. 6, 2023.ADULT SERVICESGreat Presenters--Richard Raiselis: Natural WitnessIn a time when we effortlessly record what we see with smartphones, why would a visual artist reject the comforts of a studio for the uncertainties of the outdoors? Raiselis will show his work and speak about how and why he makes it, addressi...

See what the library is planning this week for kids, teens, adults, babies and beyond.

WAYLAND, MA — Here's what's happening at the Wayland library over the week of Nov. 6, 2023.

ADULT SERVICES

Great Presenters--Richard Raiselis: Natural WitnessIn a time when we effortlessly record what we see with smartphones, why would a visual artist reject the comforts of a studio for the uncertainties of the outdoors? Raiselis will show his work and speak about how and why he makes it, addressing his choice to be a witness, to see the natural or constructed landscape with the immediacy of unfiltered looking. Register. In person and online. Tuesday, November 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Find out what's happening in Waylandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Face Surveillance in Massachusetts: Preserving Your RightsFace surveillance systems are computer programs designed to analyze images of human faces to identify and track people at a distance without their knowledge or consent. Kade Crockford, ACLU of Massachusetts’ Director of Technology for Liberty, speaks on the "Press Pause on Face Surveillance" campaign, and what you can do to help ensure new technologies, including AI, don’t eclipse our basic rights. In person and online. Register. Tuesday, November 14 at 7 p.m.

Virtual Author Talk: Joy HarjoUnited States Poet Laureate and winner of the 2022 Academy of American Poets Leadership Award, Joy Harjo, joins us for a chat about her most recent memoir, Catching the Light and to discuss her rewarding life as a writer and poet. Register. Tuesday, November 16 at 4 p.m.

Exhibit: South Asians in WaylandSince the 1970s, South Asian residents in Wayland have grown from about five families to 120. Come learn about South Asian festivals, dance, and food, and perhaps see some familiar faces from Wayland in this new exhibit. And if you didn't know, there is a Wayland Desi Facebook group you might want to join if you yourself are from South Asia.

BOOK GROUPS

All books available at the library. No registration needed.

Cookbook ClubContact [email protected] for more information. Thursday, November 16 at 5:30 p.m..

Dystopian/Sci FiOnline only. Contact [email protected] for the Zoom link. Thursday, November 16 at 7 p.m.

YOUTH SERVICES

FOR BABIES, TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS Baby & Toddler Storytime with Ms. CarlyThis storytime encourages early literacy and caregiver-child interactions with lively songs and rhymes, bounces, books, and body-awareness. Best for babies and toddlers, with caregiver.Weather permitting, we will meet outdoors on the green lawn. Please register. Tuesdays, November 7, November 14, November 21, and November 28 at 10:30 a.m.

Storytime with Ms. PamJoin Ms. Pam for stories, songs, puppets, and activities. For ages 2.5 to 5 years with an adult. We will meet in the Children’s Room. Please register. Thursdays, November 2 and November 30 at 10:30 a.m.

Storytime with Obie the DogChildren will listen to dog stories and have a chance to visit with Obie, a beautiful Samoyed. Obie will be accompanied by his owner Helen. For ages 3 and up, with an adult. Please register HERE. Thursday, November 9, at 10:30 a.m.

Sing, Move, and Story!Jodi Levin from Family ACCESS Community Connections will lead children in songs and movement, and will share a story! For ages 0-3. Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 15, at 9:30 a.m.

Music, Story, Fun! with Ms. JanetJoin Ms. Janet for a musical storytime. She’ll bring her ukulele, rainbow bells, and puppets! We will meet in the Children’s Room. For ages birth through age 4, with caregivers. Please register HERE. Thursday, November 16, at 10:30 a.m.

Yoga with Little BeatsJoin Little Beats for 30 minutes of yoga-inspired movement. For ages 1 to 5, with caregiver. Please register HERE. Friday, November 17, at 10:30 a.m.

Baby SigningLearn how to reduce frustration and help give your baby the ability to communicate before he/she can speak. Workshop led by Sheryl White of Baby Kneads. For babies, and caregivers.Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 29, at 10:30 a.m.

FOR ELEMENTARY AGE CHILDREN.Monarchs and MilkweedChildren will learn about the importance of native plants, and will plant milkweed seeds in small containers, to replant in their gardens at home. WHS student Tara Sawrikar will lead this program, as a part of her Girl Scout Gold Award project. For children ages 6 and up. Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 8, at 4:00 p.m.

3D Design Workshop: Sliding BoxIn this 3D design program, participants will design their own working sliding lid box. Using Tinkercad.com, participants will assign specific dimensions to create a functional object. Some experience with Tinkercad is recommended, but not required. Objects will be printed after the workshop, and will be free. Ages 8 and up, adults and parents also welcome. Children younger than 8 are welcome, but parents are encouraged to stay and design with their children. Registration required. Please register HERE. Thursday, November 9, at 5:00 p.m.

Get Creative: Make a Sculpture!Children will build mini sculptures (out of modeling clay and beads) inspired by the art of Nek Chand. For ages 6 and up, with caregiver. Please register HERE Tuesday, November 14, at 4 p.m.

Who Would Win? Animal ShowdownsPit nature’s most dangerous predators against each other in animal battles. Learn animal facts, choose a fighter to face off with a friend, and create your own profile for the Ultimate Animal Fighter. For ages 5 and up, with caregiver. Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 15, at 3:30 p.m.

4th/5th Grade Book ClubNovember’s book is A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll. We will meet in the Teen Loft. Questions or to get a copy of the book, please email Pam at [email protected]. For 4th and 5th graders. Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 15, at 7:00 p.m

Make an Origami TurkeyChildren will learn to make an origami turkey in this workshop led by Fenn school student Lucas Li. For children ages 6 and up. (Children under 9 must be accompanied by an adult.) Registration required. Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 21, at 4:00 p.m.

Thanksgiving and Fall CraftsChildren will make Thanksgiving and Fall crafts with Ms. Pam. For children ages 4 and up with caregiver. Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 22, at 3:30 p.m.

Build it!: Homes and HousesWinter is coming and people and animals all need shelter – somewhere snug, warm and dry. Join Ms. Stephanie to design and build winter houses using cardboard and recyclables. For ages 4 and up, with caregiver. Please register HERE. Wednesday, November 29, at 3:30 p.m.

FOR TEENS

Teen Crafternoon: Felted SlothTeens! Please join us and make an adorable felted slot. Learn how to sculpt a sloth using a special needle and merino wool. Needle felting is fun and easier than it looks. This program will be presented by Pop Up Art School. For teens ages 12 and up. Registration required. Please register HERE. Thursday, November 16 at 4 p.m. We will meet in the Teen Loft.

Grocery Stores Open On New Year's In Wayland

WAYLAND, MA — If you need another pound of butter or a carton of milk on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, it’s a good idea to plan ahead, as grocery stores in Wayland adjust their hours for the holidays.Most major retail grocery stores will close on Christmas Day and have adjusted hours for Christmas Eve.Some stores are also closed on New Year’s Day and operate on reduced hours on New Year’s Eve.But it’s always a good idea to call ahead. Some grocery stores and food retailers observe reduce...

WAYLAND, MA — If you need another pound of butter or a carton of milk on New Year's Eve or New Year's Day, it’s a good idea to plan ahead, as grocery stores in Wayland adjust their hours for the holidays.

Most major retail grocery stores will close on Christmas Day and have adjusted hours for Christmas Eve.

Some stores are also closed on New Year’s Day and operate on reduced hours on New Year’s Eve.

But it’s always a good idea to call ahead. Some grocery stores and food retailers observe reduced hours during the holidays. Stores on this list either confirmed their hours in an email to Patch or listed them on their websites.

Albertsons: Stores are open regular hours from 6 a.m.-11 p.m. on Christmas Eve, from 6 a.m.-4 p.m. on Christmas Day, and regular hours from 6 a.m.-11 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Find out what's happening in Waylandwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Aldi: Stores are closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, and operate on a limited schedule on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day. Aldi holiday hours vary by location.

BJ’s Wholesale Club: Hours are 8 a.m.-6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and 8 a.m.-7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. Stores are closed on Christmas Day and open from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

CVS: Stores are open from 9 a.m-7 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and 80 percent of stores are closed on Christmas Day. On New Year’s Eve, stores open at 9 a.m. and close at 5 p.m., then operate on the regular 9 a.m.-7 p.m. schedule on New Year’s Day.

Costco: Warehouse stores are closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day but open from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Lidl: Stores are open from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. on Christmas Eve and 8 a.m.-7 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, and closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, except for New York City store that will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Jan. 1, 2024.

Rite Aid: Stores are open regular hours on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, although some locations may adjust hours.

Safeway: Stores close at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve, remain closed on Christmas Day, and open for regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Sam’s Club: Warehouse stores are closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day and open until 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.

Save A Lot: Stores are closed Christmas Day but open on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, although hours may vary by location.

ShopRite: Stores close at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve., remain closed on Christmas Day, and are open regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day

Stop & Shop: Stores are closed on Christmas, open until 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve, and open regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Target: All stores are open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. on Christmas Eve and are closed on Christmas Day. Stores are open regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

The Fresh Market: Stores will be open from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Christmas Eve, closed on Christmas Day, from 7 a.m.-8 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

Trader Joe’s: Stores are closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day, open for reduced hours on Christmas Eve and for regular hours on New Year’s Eve.

Walgreens: Depending on the region, stores will extend hours on Christmas Eve, reduced hours on Christmas Day, and from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. The chain’s 24-hour stores will operate as usual. Check Walgreens holiday hours at stores in your area to be sure.

Walmart: Stores will be open from 6 a.m.-6 p.m. on Christmas Eve, closed Christmas Day, and open regular hours on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Wegmans: Stores will close at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and remain closed Christmas Day. On New Year’s Eve, stores close at 8 p.m. and reopen at 6 a.m. on New Year’s Day.

Whole Foods: All stores are closed on Christmas day. Hours vary by location on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Customers should check Whole Foods holiday hours for their location.

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