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

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

Personal Care Consultation

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TESTIMONIALS

“I highly recommend Always Best Care for every aspect from the ones seeking care for a loved one or themselves, all the way to the ones seeking an opportunity to care for a senior. I personally worked for ABC, and throughout my years with them I had the pleasure of interacting with the seniors as well as with the amazing caregivers. From the stories of a much more simpler time in the elders life to the reasons from a caregiver wanting to truly care for the seniors. (Most reasons are personal to them that have impacted their life and heart). This is truly a caring company with exceptional professional staff. It's hard to find a company that demonstrates both of those traits....”

Christina H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care absolutely saved us when my father needed immediate assistance. Maria and team were extremely compassionate, responsive, informative and truly wanted us to feel comfortable with every small detail. The caretakers were all amazing and dependable. I truly cannot say enough positive things about the level of service provided by ABC as they helped us navigate this truly impossible time.”

Sascha B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot say enough good things about Always Best Care in the South Bay. I was lucky to be referred to ABC when my Father suddenly needed in-home care several years ago and I hired ABC again a few months ago when my friend needed in-home care. The learning curve is steep when a family member is no longer independent. Having reliable, caring and professional caregivers is invaluable in getting through these challenges. Hiring the caregivers from ABC allowed me to be the "daughter" again. I absolutely could not have cared for my beloved Father or my dear friend without ABC by my side!”

Marta P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always Best Care agency has been wonderful to work with. The caregivers they have provided to stay with my dear friend, who has dementia, have been outstanding. My husband, an MD, and I, an RN, have rather high standards and have found all of the caregivers to be professional, caring and extremely reliable (24/7 care in this case) They go above and beyond expectations. I have felt safe with the caregivers,as they are also down-to-earth; caring people. Dr. David Hart is the main point person in this family-run agency and he is not only a very caring person, he is extremely intelligent in his communication, yet very down-to earth at the same time. He is responsive to any issues that arise immediately…not only for the client, but also to his caregivers, who he genuinely cares about. That is perhaps why he attracts and retains such stellar employees, We feel very lucky to have found ABC Senior Care services. Ilene Watson, RN and Dr. Walter Watson,MD, Manhattan Beach, CA”

Ilene P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The senior in-home care was top notch. The caregivers were caring, comforting, and always available even with our requested schedule changes. Definitely would recommend to others in our family.”

D H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I attended the free family caregivers seminar presented by Dr. David Hart. The seminar was both informative and practical. Dr. Hart is very knowledgeable and practical as he cared for his grandmother with Alzheimers. He is an unusually caring person who is very approachable. I am grateful to know him and to know he is available whenever he might be needed.”

Ruth O.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Dr David Hart has given me security to know that I can do it. He has such a caring and approachable demeanor. I feel I can call on him at any time for help with either one of us. Thank heavens he came along in our lives.”

Laurie D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My experience with ABC Senior Services has been uniformly positive, starting with participation in their Memory Club several years ago. My wife has Alzheimer's and the challenges are severe. ABC, notably Dr. David Hart, has been a terrific source of support and advice. They take the time to understand your individual needs and circumstances. This is a great resource for those of us in the South Bay.”

Joel T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This is a long overdue review and endorsement of Always Best Care-Torrance. My family is forever grateful for all the care given to my father for more than four years. From our initial meeting with Carrie and David to selecting the most wonderful caregiver that was with Dad to the end of his days. The love and support from everyone at ABC was so appreciated especially during some very difficult times. May God bless you always - You are truly special angels. Thank you all!”

Don V.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I attended one of their monthly caregiver essentials workshop and found it incredibly informative. I now have a much better understanding of the disease progression, and have walked away with so many helpful resources. Attending made me aware that I do not have to struggle alone through this, there are support groups and resources available to assist me. Dr. David Hart is a compassionate person who is genuinely willing to help others navigate the path of caring for a loved one with dementia.”

RENEE B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Carrie, David, and their team are terrific to work with. Carrie has been a lifesaver by helping us to quickly find a wonderful 24/7 board and care facility for our loved one who is suffering from both advanced dementia and a broken, severe arthritic neck. They have provided very capable temporary care givers to us to help with taking our loved one to doctor's appointments and during the time our loved one was being treated in the hospital. David has thoroughly educated us on all aspects of dementia and counseled the family members to help sort out their emotions during these difficult times. We strongly recommend Always Best Care South Bay to anyone needing advise, help, and services to find care facilities, care givers, and/or counseling.”

Raoul G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“From the moment I first spoke to Mark Wecker at Always Best Care, he was kind, caring and extremely knowledgeable. He made sure to ask all the right questions to help my siblings and me find the perfect place for our father who had very advanced Parkinson's Disease. He took us to places that fit the high quality we were looking for and in our budget range. Mark showed genuine concern for us and my father. And he helped us navigate through a challenging situation. We made a great decision based on his expert advice. Unfortunately, my father passed away before we could bring him to LA. But I will always be grateful for the detailed attention we received from Mark and Always Best Care.”

Batsheva F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My son and I have received family counseling from Dr. Hart for nearly two years. We both suffer from PTSD, among other mental disabilities, and have been seen by a number of therapists over the years. We have found Dr. Hart’s care to be among the most helpful. He is kind, understanding, and patient. Rather than employing long term, traditional psychotherapy or other limited methods exclusively, he uses different approaches to break through a person’s natural resistance. He suggests interpretations of feelings and actions, asks questions that show real insight, and then gives practical and usually appropriate advice that can be accepted or discussed further. He has treated us with respect and even with a non-intrusive, kind of professional affection. We would recommend him to friends and family without hesitation.”

Andrew L.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I'm glad I attended Dr. Hart's caregiver support workshop which focused on Alzheimer's disease. I knew then Always Best Care would be the right agency to handle my Dad's care. From the beginning to the end the staff were professional and courteous. My dad unfortunately decided to end services because of his stubbornness. Mark was understanding and expressed his concern for my Dad's wellbeing. He didn't push for us to continue services. I would work with ABC again if my father agrees to resume services. They definitely have your loved ones best interest in mind.”

G S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Experienced people, excellent service.”

Elsie M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Dr. David Hart for your elder-care needs. Dr. Hart is an incredibly knowledgeable and caring person who helped our family beyond measure to provide the best level of care for our mother who has Alzheimer's Disease. We engaged Dr. Hart to 1) conduct his own periodic assessments of our mother; 2) create a forum for our broader family, including our mom, to communicate and ask questions; 3) provide training and resources; and 4) help our family evaluate and implement an interim and long-term care plan for our mother. DR. HART EXCEEDED OUR EXPECTATIONS ON EVERY LEVEL. Prior to meeting Dr. Hart we had received a lot of conflicting information and our broader family was experiencing a very high level of stress and frustration. Thankfully, after engaging with Dr. Hart for several months, our family became knowledgeable, we communicated well with each other, and we just implemented a long-term care plan that addresses all of our mom's needs and one that she really enjoys. DR. HART IS THE BEST AND HE TRULY CARES ABOUT HIS PATIENTS AND THE FAMILIES HE WORKS WITH. Thank you Dr. Hart for all of you have done for our family. Words cannot express our gratitude.”

chris B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Dr Hart knows so much about dealing with issues that Alzheimer's creates for those who have the disease as well as those of us who are caretakers.”

Kaye T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Best in home care company in the South Bay & LA”

Michelle P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare homes for our loved one, and explaining how this whole senior placement business works. It turns out we were quite naïve about it being a "service" as it is very territorial! That made us all the more impressed with Mark's unselfish and caring approach to helping us meet our needs. He also took time to really listen to our criteria, asked great questions when he accompanied us to look at the homes, and only showed us places that met our standards. We recommend him highly to anyone!”

Ramona P.
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TESTIMONIALS

““ I have been very happy with the excellent professional and loving care services ABC has provided for Kathleen who suffers from Alzheimer’s Dementia and the Andreoli family who cares for her. ABC is a full service provider that has also offered free seminars, consultation and information to me and my daughter who are Kathleen’s primary care takers. These have helped us greatly in this daunting task. THANK YOU – Leo Andreoli, Torrance, CA””

Leo A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“My widowed 80-year-old mother who has Alzheimer's disease has been living alone for 3 years. She has been extremely resistant to having caregivers in her home and my brother and I had all but given up. We have been amazed at the progress we've made since enlisting the help of Dr. David Hart at Always Best Care. In a little over a month, Mom has accepted a caregiver and is considering a move to an assisted living facility. Equally important, the support and assistance we have received in making both large and small decisions has been invaluable and a huge relief. I also highly recommend the Caregiving Essentials class taught by Dr. Hart, which covers everything you need to know in a single 3-1/2 hour "bootcamp" session, including brain science, communication tips, and resources. (GPS shoe insert, who knew?!) The class would benefit anyone who has a friend or family member suffering from dementia.”

Linda S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I want to express how helpful Mark Wecker was to me and my family as we were looking for a place for my father to live. We needed to quickly move him from Kansas City to Los Angeles. Mark spent time with us to hear our needs and then appropriately guide us through this new challenging stage in our lives. His advice and dedicated time was so valuable and personable to us, I don't how we would have managed without him. Thank you again, Mark!”

David H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Thankful and grateful don’t seem quite good enough to express how I feel about Always Best Care South Bay and all the good work they do. They offer a support group run by Dr. David Hart. That group was my lifeline while I was caring for my husband. When it came time to place him in a memory care facility, they assisted me with that decision also. Dr. Hart and his team are extremely knowledgeable, always professional but most of all genuinely caring.”

Ann W.
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TESTIMONIALS

“The attitude and professionalism of the management of a company is especially important in the field of elder care. I can think of no better way to express my experience with Always Best Care then to say the management and their hands on approach with the care givers they hire is 5 stars”

John D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Its always a pleasure working with a team that has their hearts and minds on the patient’s wellbeing. ABC is the way to go.”

David S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Always best care saved my life they have a great staff ready to assist 24/7 always available and reliable I highly recommend Always best care.”

Jennifer B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This company is very professional. All the staff is very experenced. They provide top notch care..The caregivers are also so professional on time and experenced.”

Christina 3.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very professional staff. Also my caregiver was awesome”

Atom F.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Best In Home Care Company in the Southbay”

mpalacio
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TESTIMONIALS

“Helpful, compassionate, and always available to assist. I appreciate Always Best Care so much!”

ashaon
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TESTIMONIALS

“The staff are friendly and professional every step of the way.”

JG B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare homes for our loved one, and explaining how this whole senior placement business works. It turns out we were quite naïve about it being a "service" as it is very territorial! That made us all the more impressed with Mark's unselfish and caring approach to helping us meet our needs. He also took time to really listen to our criteria, asked great questions when he accompanied us to look at the homes, and only showed us places that met our standards. We recommend him highly to anyone!”

Jack P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Dr. Hart has been of monumental assistance to our family during a very difficult time. We first learned of Dr. David’s practice when mom was first diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). His support groups for families and patients offered comfort and practical advice from others going through the same experience. He provided essential information—facts about dementia and lifestyle changes to slow the process—based on the latest research findings, sparing us the time and frustration of navigating the web and sorting facts from myths. But most important to me has been the emotional support Dr. David has personally provided to my sister and I, and the trusting relationship he established with mom. His professional empathy and experience with human behavior as well as his expertise in the field of geriatrics and cognition combine to provide an array of servicesthat will truly make the difference toward a successful transition for elders and their families. I could not recommend Dr. Hart more highly!”

Eileen S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Over the last five years always best care has provided Home Care to several of my patients. I appreciate their case management did they include with their service. The patients and families have been very happy with the caregivers. Several have been able to take advantage of the driving service. I have referred numerous people to their caregiving course that is offered monthly.”

nancy G.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I want to let you know how fortunate I feel that our lives intersected with your company and with those who work there. When I realized that we would be needing a company that provided caring care-providing services, I was hoping and praying that I would find a company like yours. We could not have asked for better with the service Always Best Care provided. Even when the chemistry and/or the timing wasn't quite right, adjustments were made and reasonably so. Carrie, that introductory talk you and I first had and why you started ABC -- I want to let you know that what you created and why you created it is evident. Some of Dad's caregivers go the extra mile and above and beyond and really give of themselves. They are really top notch people. I have heartfelt gratitude for your company and for your employees who cared for my dad during our time of need. Thank you not only for providing the service that your company does, but also and in particular, for the high quality of the service that some of your employees provided.”

Ky S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am so very fortunate to be a part of a professional, caring and supportive company. We are all family here trying our very best to be a family for all the clients we work with. Our caregivers and staff try our best to help those families in need live a peacefully, fulfilling and loving life. If you want to have a dependable, reliable and gratifying career come and work with Always Best Care South Bay!!”

Julie M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I've worked for four agencies over the last 16 years but this is the best by far! Personable, supportive, compassionate, knowledgeable, and the greatest staff!”

Debora A.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great place to work”

Ruby J.
 In-Home Care Los Angeles, CA

How does In-home Senior Care in Los Angeles, CA work?

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

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

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

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 Senior Care Los Angeles, CA

Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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

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

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

Comfort
Comfort

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them? A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old. With the help of elderly care in Los Angeles, CA, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Healthy Living
Healthy Living

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors. Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

Independence
Independence

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

Cost and Convenience
Cost and Convenience

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, can be less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

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

Empowers Seniors

Affordable Care Plans

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

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

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

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

Veteran's Benefits
Veteran's Benefits

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

Long-Term Care Insurance
Long-Term Care Insurance

Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.

Private Insurance
Private Insurance

Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.

Life Insurance
Life Insurance

Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.


Respite Care Los Angeles, CA

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

Compassionate Care. Trusted Caregivers

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

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

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

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

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

 Caregivers Los Angeles, CA

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

An assessment of your senior loved one

01

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

02

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

03

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

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

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

Latest News in Los Angeles, CA

Rams' Cooper Kupp seeing specialist for hamstring injury

Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Cooper Kupp was in Minnesota on Monday to see a specialist in the hopes of getting at the root of his hamstring issues, coach Sean McVay said.The visit comes after Kupp had a setback with his recovery from a hamstring injury last week.McVay said Kupp remains day-to-day, adding that he shou...

Los Angeles Rams star wide receiver Cooper Kupp was in Minnesota on Monday to see a specialist in the hopes of getting at the root of his hamstring issues, coach Sean McVay said.

The visit comes after Kupp had a setback with his recovery from a hamstring injury last week.

McVay said Kupp remains day-to-day, adding that he should have more clarity on Kupp's availability for Week 1 on Wednesday. The Rams open their season Sunday at the Seattle Seahawks.

"I think you just move forward, and you have to be able to operate with the situation and the guys we do have and if he's able to go then that's outstanding for us and, if not, then that's kind of how we've been operating," McVay said.

"I think the most important thing is that whenever he's ready to take the field, whether that be this week, whether that be Week 2, whatever it is, as long as he's able to have that return to performance, he's feeling like the Cooper Kupp that we all know and love and he's got some clarity on, all right, what is really going on? I think that will be a really good situation for us."

Kupp, 30, was first injured in a training camp practice Aug. 1 and missed all three preseason games.

McVay said Kupp's absence has "forced growth and development" for the rest of the Rams' receivers, who include Van Jefferson and Tutu Atwell.

"Here's what I'll say: I know how badly Cooper wants to be available and wants to be available for his teammates, so I first feel for him. The second thing is what we're not going to do is to get caught up with things that are outside of our control. I'm not doing that," McVay said.

Kupp played nine games in 2022 before a season-ending ankle injury but led the NFL in receptions (145), yards (1,947) and touchdowns (16) in 2021.

Reuters contributed to this report.

Okay, the 1980s Lakers Were Great—What Else?

HBO’s streaming show about the “Showtime” era is doing too much in its second season, without saying anything of consequence.In the first season of Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, it took five episodes before anyone played a professional game of basketball. The HBO show, created by Max Borenstein and Jim Hecht, dramatizes the “Showtime” Los Angeles Lakers, a dominant team whose reign began with the drafting of Magic Johnson in 1979 and continued through the ’80s, expanding the...

HBO’s streaming show about the “Showtime” era is doing too much in its second season, without saying anything of consequence.

In the first season of Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty, it took five episodes before anyone played a professional game of basketball. The HBO show, created by Max Borenstein and Jim Hecht, dramatizes the “Showtime” Los Angeles Lakers, a dominant team whose reign began with the drafting of Magic Johnson in 1979 and continued through the ’80s, expanding the NBA’s reach and transforming basketball into a television powerhouse to rival baseball and football in America. But its first season was only so interested in the actual on-court competition. Instead, the show trudged through locker-room rivalries, boardroom subplots, and the business machinations of the owner, Jerry Buss, before finally staging a tip-off halfway through, for Magic’s first Lakers game.

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Season 2, which began airing last month on HBO’s rebranded Max service, is the complete opposite: a pedal-to-the-floor dash through four years of Laker history that wraps up an entire NBA season in its first episode. That’s partly because of the history it draws from—Magic Johnson’s first year with the Lakers was a dramatic series of twists and turns that ended in a championship, while his second was largely derailed by a knee injury. But it’s also weirdly emblematic of the strange stretch-and-snap formatting of so much streaming-exclusive television, wherein a plodding, overly methodical first season is followed by one that seems almost panicked, rushing to push out more plot lest its mercurial corporate overlords decree cancellation. For this new season of Winning Time, that format has created a particular sense of factual whiplash, trying to cram a hundred pounds of ’80s NBA facts into a 10-pound bag.

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2023 Major League Soccer, Regular Season

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51.948.1
TeamGPWDLGDP
FC Cincinnati271764+1457
New England Revolution261385+1447
Orlando City SC271386+1047
Philadelphia Union261448+1646
Columbus Crew271368+1745
Atlanta United FC281198+842
Nashville SC271179+540
CF Montréal2711214-1235
D.C. United279612-133
Chicago Fire FC278811-1032
Charlotte FC267109-931
New York City FC2861210-830
New York Red Bulls277812-929
Inter Miami CF257414-1025
Toronto FC2741013-1622
TeamGPWDLGDP
St. Louis CITY SC2715210+1847
Seattle Sounders FC281189+541
LAFC261178+1040
Real Salt Lake271179-140
Houston Dynamo FC2711610+539
Vancouver Whitecaps261088+738
Minnesota United FC26998+136
San Jose Earthquakes27999-436
FC Dallas269710-134
Austin FC279612-533
Sporting Kansas City278811-132
Portland Timbers277911-1230
LA Galaxy257810-829
Colorado Rapids2631013-2319

Keeping Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa upright will be tested vs. Chargers

MIAMI -- The football world has heard plenty about the offseason of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, specifically the jiu-jitsu and breakfall training he learned to avoid head injuries after concussions truncated his 2022 season.He even demonstrated new techniques in the preseason when he tucked and rolled after taking a...

MIAMI -- The football world has heard plenty about the offseason of Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, specifically the jiu-jitsu and breakfall training he learned to avoid head injuries after concussions truncated his 2022 season.

He even demonstrated new techniques in the preseason when he tucked and rolled after taking a handful of hits during two appearances.

But that was four drives against teams without an elite pass-rusher, and the Dolphins’ Week 1 opponent has two.

Miami travels to Los Angeles on Sept. 10 to take on the Chargers (4:25 p.m. ET, CBS), who have two of the best pass-rushers over the past decade. Since defensive end Joey Bosa was drafted in 2016, he and teammate Khalil Mack have combined for 126 sacks, 159 disrupted dropbacks and 36 forced fumbles.

The duo played only five games together last season as Bosa missed 12 with a groin injury, but now healthy, the tandem should provide an immediate test for Tagovailoa and an offensive line that still has questions to answer.

Miami’s pass block win rate of 55.6% ranked ninth worst in the NFL last season -- an improvement from its league-worst 46.6% in 2021.

Pro Bowl left tackle Terron Armstead and center Connor Williams added an influx of talent to the OL a season ago, and they return to their roles in 2023. So does right guard Robert Hunt, who has started the past 34 regular-season games at his position.

“With the offensive line, we’re happy with it,” general manager Chris Grier said Wednesday. “I think you’ve seen the progress from the last two years with the fundamentals and the teaching in this offense in the preseason. In the run game, they’ve done some good things.

“So we’re excited for the guys with the group we have here. Like anything, we’ll always keep looking here and on the roster, but we’re very happy with the guys here. Coaches are very happy. So I think this is a group that we feel we can win with, and we’ll continue to just keep building and working.”

The two biggest questions remain at left guard and right tackle, where Liam Eichenberg and Austin Jackson entered training camp as the starters after missing time last season with knee and ankle injuries, respectively.

Jackson turned in a strong camp in 2022 before injuring his right ankle in Week 1 and playing only one more game the rest of the season. He said he remained present at the facility and in team meetings while injured in order to stay “locked in” and feels like he has turned in the best camp of his four-year career this summer.

The Dolphins declined to exercise his fifth-year option in May, but the former first-round pick has embraced the responsibility of protecting Tagovailoa’s blind side as he plays for his future with the organization.

“I love that responsibility. I truly do,” Jackson said. “It’s what I get up and work for. It’s what I get up and train for. It’s what I study for. It’s what I take care of my body for, so we can be the dominant line that we need to be in order for Tua to keep being himself.

“He’s a great quarterback. He’s going to get the ball out anyways, but he needs more time from us, and that’s a responsibility we take every single day.”

Eichenberg, on the other hand, is not as entrenched as the team’s starter. Miami signed former first-round picks Isaiah Wynn and Cedric Ogbuehi this offseason, and while only Wynn made the initial 53-man roster, he has proved to be a challenger for Eichenberg’s role.

A second-round pick in 2021, Eichenberg’s play has been shaky since entering the league; in that span, his 82.6% pass block win rate ranked 182nd out of 189 qualified linemen. For reference, Wynn’s 86.8% ranks 159th, while Williams’ 92.7% leads all Dolphins linemen and ranks 55th in the NFL.

Eichenberg finished the preseason injured, giving Wynn an opportunity to take even more starter reps at left guard. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel did not name a starter, but he did say Eichenberg would serve as the backup to Williams at center along with Lester Cotton.

Eichenberg tried to power through his injury toward the end of the preseason, but his unavailability certainly didn’t help him hold on to a job that might have already slipped through his grasp.

“We had to kind of hold Liam back. He was determined, but [we] didn’t think it was fair from an evaluation standpoint to put him out there, to try to protect him from himself,” McDaniel said after the Dolphins’ second preseason game. “We’ll make sure that we don’t do anything on our side that we can prevent from him having any further issues.

“I thought Isaiah got his feet wet in the system to a degree. I think he did a real good job trying to attack our techniques, and there is stuff he wants to improve upon.”

Cooper Kupp visiting specialists for hamstring injury, remains day to day: What this means for the Rams

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp remains day to day with a hamstring injury, coach Sean McVay said Monday. Here’s what you need to know: Rams Cooper Kupp is still visiting with doctors in Minn...

Los Angeles Rams wide receiver Cooper Kupp remains day to day with a hamstring injury, coach Sean McVay said Monday. Here’s what you need to know:

Rams Cooper Kupp is still visiting with doctors in Minnesota to get some clarity on his hamstring. HC Sean McVay says he's still day to day.

— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) September 4, 2023

The Athletic’s instant analysis:

What this means

The most telling comment to me from McVay’s news conference on Wednesday was noting, “we’re hopeful that this will give some clarity once he goes and talks to these doctors — because it doesn’t fall in alignment with some of the things that have ended up occurring relative to the standard strains of the hamstring, just based on what’s occurred over the last month and a half.”

If this situation is outside the framework of a typical hamstring strain, as McVay alludes here, I could see the Rams being cautious not only in their research process of the issue but also in getting Kupp back on the field by Week 1. — Rodrigue

What McVay said

“You want to be able to just take it a day at a time,” McVay said Monday. “We’re hopeful that this will give some clarity once he goes and talks to these doctors. It doesn’t fall in alignment with some of the things that have ended up occurring relative to the standard strains of the hamstring just based on what’s occurred over the last month and a half.”

Backstory

Kupp, 30, suffered a season-ending ankle sprain last year that required surgery. He missed spring OTAs to spend time with his wife Anna as they welcomed a new baby. Kupp began training camp normally but pulled up during individual red zone drills after feeling a “tug” in his hamstring.

He is quarterback Matthew Stafford’s favorite receiving target, accounting for over one-third of the Rams’ target share in 2022 before his ankle injury.

Required reading

(Photo: Jayne Kamin-Oncea / USA Today)

Here's What the Bolts Expect From Cameron Dicker in Year 2

Below are three takeaways from Chargers Special Teams Coordinator Ryan Ficken and outside linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu's media availability on Monday:The Chargers special teams unit is fired up to kick off the regular season with kicker Cameron Dicker leading the position.After a competitive training camp battle between Dicker and Dustin Hopkins, the team moved forward with Dicker after trading Hopkins to Cleveland last Monday.Chargers Special Teams Coordinator Ryan Ficken spoke Monday for the first time since the decision,...

Below are three takeaways from Chargers Special Teams Coordinator Ryan Ficken and outside linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu's media availability on Monday:

The Chargers special teams unit is fired up to kick off the regular season with kicker Cameron Dicker leading the position.

After a competitive training camp battle between Dicker and Dustin Hopkins, the team moved forward with Dicker after trading Hopkins to Cleveland last Monday.

Chargers Special Teams Coordinator Ryan Ficken spoke Monday for the first time since the decision, pointing out the deciding factors in the kicker competition ahead of the regular season.

"Dustin, first and foremost, is an elite kicker," Ficken said during his media session. "Either way, however it shook out, we were going to lose a top kicker.

"We felt, as an organization, that the body of work with what Cameron has done — nothing that Hopkins hasn't done — more of what Dicker has done, our faith and belief in him and his consistency with it," Ficken added. "Moving forward, we thought he was the right guy for the opportunity."

The team is excited about the future with Dicker — and rightfully so.

The second-year kicker had quite a rookie season, hitting 19 of 20 field goals overall during his time with the Bolts, including a pair of game-winners that would prove big in the Bolts postseason berth.

And Dicker continued the positive momentum from last season into this offseason, making 62 of 68 kicks during camp practices prior to the season and converting four field goals and five extra points in preseason games.

There's a lot of things to like about how Dicker how performed in the powder blue, but Ficken noted some of the other characteristics that has gotten him success early in his NFL career — and the excitement surrounding Year 2 as a member of the Bolts.

"It's his approach to the game. He plays like he's a veteran kicker," Ficken said. "Nothing sways him at all. He's confident in everything he does. He's consistent in his approach. You know what you're going to get out of him.

"We're really excited that he's still here as a Charger," Ficken added. "Even last year there were opportunities where other teams were pushing for him, we're fortunate that he's here. It was a great competition between those two guys, I thought they made each other better as they competed against each other."

Outside linebacker Tuli Tuipulotu's pro debut is just six days away, but the nerves haven't quite kicked in yet.

"I wouldn't say anything right now," said Tuipulotu, who did not speak at the podium but chatted with reporters in the locker room. "I think the excitement will come closer to the game.

"I think probably just worried about preparation and getting ready for the game," Tuipulotu added.

The 2023 second-rounder kicked off his first regular-season game week Monday as he now focuses on the task at hand against the Dolphins.

And for as much as Week 1 will be his first regular season NFL game, the rookie Tuipulotu is approaching it as if it's just another game — even if it is a big milestone in his career.

"I just feel like it's another game," Tuipulotu said. "I know it's my first NFL game, but I just want to treat it like any other game.

"I know it's not going to be like that, just try to trick my mind into that," Tuipulotu added.

Tuipulotu had a strong first offseason with the Bolts, flashing throughout training camp and even in his limited action during the preseason. The rookie outside linebacker played a total 26 snaps in two preseason games and made his presence felt.

According to Pro Football Focus, Tuipulotu finished with two quarterback hurries and one quarterback hit in just 14 pass rushing snaps. He also showed what he can do in the run game by recording a tackle for loss against the Saints during the Bolts second preseason game.

Tuipulotu credited his coaches for having him prepared ahead of Sunday, as he's hoping to contribute in whatever way he's needed.

"I, for sure, feel prepared," Tuipulotu said. "We had good OTAs, good training camp.

"I feel like the team, [Outside Linebackers] Coach Giff [Smith}, [Chargers Head] Coach [Brandon] Staley been preparing me for whatever I got to do on Sunday," Tuipulotu added. "I'm just ready to go out there and do whatever they want me to do."

Another year, another new rule to watch out for in 2023.

The NFL rolled out a new rule on kickoffs this offseason that stipulates the return team will get the ball at their own 25-yard line if they call a fair catch (and secure the kickoff) anywhere behind that mark.

The Chargers didn't call for any fair catches in that scenario in the preseason, but Ficken gave his thoughts on it Monday afternoon.

"You didn't see much of it," Ficken said. "Maybe situationally, depends on the philosophy that some of these teams are going to have, depending on the situation of the game, the returner.

"Yeah, you might see it, but I just know what our philosophy is and what we're going to do," Ficken added. "It's tough to figure out what the rest of the teams might do, but we have to prepare for teams to fair catch it, to kick different types of kicks when they're on kickoff and we have to be able to recover all of those types of kicks, as well."

Ficken was then asked why a team just wouldn't take the fair catch and get it at the 25, which is solid starting field position.

But he responded with a reminder that a muffed fair catch on the kickoff is just like one on a punt.

So if you muff the kickoff fair catch and recover it at your own 7-yard line, that's where you start. And if the kicking team recovers that muffed fair catch, your offense won't even see the field.

"If you we're 100 percent going to be able to catch the ball, obviously, you have the one rule where you do muff it, the ball is going to be right there at the spot. You have to prepare for that," Ficken said. "It just depends on the situation. If you want to save time on the clock, you may fair catch it. Every situation is going to be dependent upon what we do moving forward on that."

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Living the Dream in Los Angeles: A City of Opportunities

Los Angeles, often referred to as the "City of Angels," has long held a special place in the American psyche as a land of dreams and opportunities. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the thriving tech scene, LA is a city where people come to chase their dreams, whatever they may be. In this article, we'll explore what makes Los Angeles a city of endless possibilities and why so many are drawn to its vibrant energy.For countless as...

Los Angeles, often referred to as the "City of Angels," has long held a special place in the American psyche as a land of dreams and opportunities. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the thriving tech scene, LA is a city where people come to chase their dreams, whatever they may be. In this article, we'll explore what makes Los Angeles a city of endless possibilities and why so many are drawn to its vibrant energy.

For countless aspiring actors, musicians, writers, and filmmakers, Los Angeles is the ultimate destination. Hollywood, with its legendary studios and iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame, has a magnetic pull that attracts dreamers from around the globe. While making it big in the entertainment industry is undoubtedly a challenging endeavor, the city provides a supportive ecosystem of talent agencies, acting schools, and networking opportunities that make it possible for some to realize their dreams of stardom.

Los Angeles is not just about Hollywood fame; it's also a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. Silicon Beach, a thriving tech scene centered around the coastal areas of Santa Monica and Venice, has become a hotspot for tech startups and digital media companies. This tech renaissance has led to the creation of countless opportunities in fields ranging from app development to e-commerce.

Los Angeles is a true melting pot, with a diverse population that speaks to the city's multicultural vibrancy. The blend of cultures, languages, and traditions creates a unique environment where individuals from all walks of life can find a sense of belonging. The city's neighborhoods reflect this diversity, from the historic streets of Chinatown to the artistic enclave of Boyle Heights.

Los Angeles is home to numerous world-class universities and institutions, making it a prime destination for those seeking higher education and professional development. The University of Southern California (USC), the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), and the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) are just a few of the prestigious institutions that call LA home.

Beyond its bustling streets and urban landscape, Los Angeles offers an abundance of natural beauty. The city's proximity to the Pacific Ocean provides opportunities for beachside relaxation, water sports, and scenic coastal drives. Nearby hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains and San Gabriel Mountains allow residents to escape to the great outdoors without leaving the city limits.

Conclusion

Los Angeles embodies the American dream in all its forms, offering a vast canvas of opportunities for individuals with diverse aspirations. From pursuing a career in entertainment or tech to embracing cultural diversity and enjoying a rich outdoor lifestyle, the City of Angels provides the backdrop for countless dreams to come true. While the path to success may not always be straightforward, the vibrant energy and culture of Los Angeles continue to inspire and drive those who dare to dream and are willing to seize the opportunities this city has to offer.

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Here are the top Labor Day weekend travel destinations for Southern Californians

Southern Californians taking a gamble on a busy holiday travel weekend are betting on a good time in the desert.Las Vegas tops the list of most popular Labor Day weekend travel destinations for Southern California residents leaving town to celebrate the unofficial end of summer, according to AAA.Here are the ...

Southern Californians taking a gamble on a busy holiday travel weekend are betting on a good time in the desert.

Las Vegas tops the list of most popular Labor Day weekend travel destinations for Southern California residents leaving town to celebrate the unofficial end of summer, according to AAA.

Here are the top 5 destinations for SoCal travelers based on AAA booking data for flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises.

Here are the top five Labor Day weekend destinations for SoCal travelers based on AAA booking data for flights, hotels, rental cars, and cruises.

© OpenStreetMap contributors

Source: AAACreated with Datawrapper

Las Vegas also makes the list of most popular domestic destinations for travelers nationwide.

Here are the most popular international destinations, according to AAA.

Best and worst times to travel during Labor Day weekend

Some days and times are better than others for hitting the road over the holiday weekend, according to AAA.

Citing data from transportation-analytics firm INRIX, the Auto Club warned that Thursday and Friday afternoons are expected to be the busiest times on the roads for travel.

"The best times to travel by car over Labor Day weekend are early in the morning or in the evening," Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX, said in a statement. "If you must travel during heavy traffic, navigation apps and local departments of transportation can help steer drivers around long delays."

LAX Labor Day weekend travel forecast

Traveling through LAX? You'll be among nearly 1.1 million passengers expected to pass through LAX between Thursday and Monday.

Friday is expected to be the busiest day, with 229,000 passengers anticipated at LAX. Roughly 224,000 passengers are expected Thursday, and 220,000 on Monday.

"LAX has experienced a very busy summer travel season welcoming more passengers through our airport than we have seen since early 2020," Justin Erbacci, CEO of Los Angeles World Airports, the city agency that runs LAX, said in a statement. "We reached a major milestone in June and July when our international passenger traffic surpassed 2 million guests each month. The passenger volumes for the upcoming Labor Day weekend signify a successful summer and encourage us that this momentum will carry into the fall and winter months."

Airport officials urged travelers to arrive at least two hours early for domestic flights and three hours early for international trips. They also noted that traffic on the horseshoe loop through the Central Terminal Area will be heavy, with more than 90,000 vehicles anticipated daily over the weekend. Airport parking is also expected to be at a premium, and officials urged travelers to book spaces in advance at parking.flylax.com.

According to the Automobile Club of Southern California, the agency's booking data for flights, hotels, rentals cars and cruises over the holiday weekend are up 4% domestically, compared to last year's Labor Day period, and international bookings are up 44%.

"While AAA does not issue a formal travel forecast for the Labor Day holiday, Southern California travel bookings indicate that vacation interest continues at the high levels of the Memorial Day and Independence Day holidays, which matched or exceeded pre-pandemic levels," according to the Auto Club.

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