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.
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 Stone Point 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 Marina Del Rey, CA is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 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.
“I highly recommend Always Best Care for every aspect from the ones seeking care for”
“Always Best Care absolutely saved us when my father needed immediate assistance. Maria and team”
“I cannot say enough good things about Always Best Care in the South Bay. I”
“Always Best Care agency has been wonderful to work with. The caregivers they have provided”
“The senior in-home care was top notch. The caregivers were caring, comforting, and always available”
“I attended the free family caregivers seminar presented by Dr. David Hart. The seminar was”
“Dr David Hart has given me security to know that I can do it. He”
“My experience with ABC Senior Services has been uniformly positive, starting with participation in their”
“This is a long overdue review and endorsement of Always Best Care-Torrance. My family is”
“I attended one of their monthly caregiver essentials workshop and found it incredibly informative. I”
“Carrie, David, and their team are terrific to work with. Carrie has been a lifesaver”
“From the moment I first spoke to Mark Wecker at Always Best Care, he was”
“My son and I have received family counseling from Dr. Hart for nearly two years.”
“I'm glad I attended Dr. Hart's caregiver support workshop which focused on Alzheimer's disease. I”
“Experienced people, excellent service.”
“I HIGHLY RECOMMEND Dr. David Hart for your elder-care needs. Dr. Hart is an incredibly”
“Dr Hart knows so much about dealing with issues that Alzheimer's creates for those who”
“Best in home care company in the South Bay & LA”
“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare”
““ I have been very happy with the excellent professional and loving care services ABC”
“My widowed 80-year-old mother who has Alzheimer's disease has been living alone for 3 years.”
“I want to express how helpful Mark Wecker was to me and my family as”
“Thankful and grateful don’t seem quite good enough to express how I feel about Always”
“The attitude and professionalism of the management of a company is especially important in the”
“Its always a pleasure working with a team that has their hearts and minds on”
“Always best care saved my life they have a great staff ready to assist 24/7”
“I am a current client of this provider This company is very professional. All the staff”
“I am a current client of this provider Very professional staff. Also my caregiver was awesome”
“I am a current client of this provider Best In Home Care Company in the Southbay”
“I am a past client of this provider Helpful, compassionate, and always available to assist. I”
“The staff are friendly and professional every step of the way.”
“Mark Wecker provided us with invaluable help both in terms of finding appropriate board &scare”
“Dr. Hart has been of monumental assistance to our family during a very difficult time.”
“Over the last five years always best care has provided Home Care to several of”
“I want to let you know how fortunate I feel that our lives intersected with”
“I am so very fortunate to be a part of a professional, caring and supportive”
“I've worked for four agencies over the last 16 years but this is the best”
“Great place to work”
“Ms.Carrie Bianco (owner) is very friendly and accomodating. Ms.Rhona (staffing) is very nice, easy to”
“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....”
“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.”
“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!”
“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”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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!”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“Experienced people, excellent service.”
“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.”
“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.”
“Best in home care company in the South Bay & LA”
“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!”
““ 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””
“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.”
“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!”
“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.”
“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”
“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.”
“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.”
“I am a current client of this provider 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.”
“I am a current client of this provider Very professional staff. Also my caregiver was awesome”
“I am a current client of this provider Best In Home Care Company in the Southbay”
“I am a past client of this provider Helpful, compassionate, and always available to assist. I appreciate Always Best Care so much!”
“The staff are friendly and professional every step of the way.”
“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!”
“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!”
“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.”
“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.”
“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!!”
“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!”
“Great place to work”
“Ms.Carrie Bianco (owner) is very friendly and accomodating. Ms.Rhona (staffing) is very nice, easy to approach...I would say this company is wonderful to be part of a team...Great people, great company. ABC is the answer for your help! more power!!!Ed”
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.
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 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.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home 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:
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:
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 Burton Chace Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
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 Cast & Plow or visit Marina del Rey 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.
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:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
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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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.
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 Marina Del Rey, 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.
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.
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:
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 Marina Del Rey, 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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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
A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
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 Marina Del Rey, CA 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.
New Westside Spot Blends European Traditions, Seasonal Fare, Philosophy of Slowing DownBlending European tradition with California ease, Stoa Wine Bar & Market has opened its doors on Via Marina, offering both a daytime market and deli and an evening wine bar. The concept, created by hospitality veterans Constantine Savvides and Richard Peters, is designed as an intentional gathering space where food, wine, and conversation take center stage.Inspired by the ancient Stoa Poikile in Athens, the venue draws on...
New Westside Spot Blends European Traditions, Seasonal Fare, Philosophy of Slowing Down
Blending European tradition with California ease, Stoa Wine Bar & Market has opened its doors on Via Marina, offering both a daytime market and deli and an evening wine bar. The concept, created by hospitality veterans Constantine Savvides and Richard Peters, is designed as an intentional gathering space where food, wine, and conversation take center stage.
Inspired by the ancient Stoa Poikile in Athens, the venue draws on classical ideas of community while embracing the Japanese philosophy of wabi-sabi. The design celebrates natural wear and imperfection, with warm lighting, vintage furnishings, and Mediterranean accents. An outdoor patio shaded by an olive tree and anchored by amber string lights sets the tone for a slower pace of dining.
The market, curated in collaboration with Tony Princiotta and Norbert Wabnig, formerly of showcases Alpine cheeses, charcuterie, small-production wines, and Mediterranean provisions. Executive chef Jordan Olivo leads the kitchen, highlighting seasonal, ingredient-driven fare that can be enjoyed on-site or packed for a marina-side picnic.
Evenings transform Stoa into an intimate wine bar with small plates like spice-roasted beets with whipped ricotta, pancetta-topped spicy vodka pizza, and house-favorite meatballs. A pizza program created with Zack Lopez of Boy Blue LA strikes a balance between New York and Neapolitan styles. Desserts and cocktails remain understated yet refined, including tiramisu with coconut rum-soaked ladyfingers and the Golden Mean, a mezcal sour with passionfruit.
The wine list focuses on sustainable, low-intervention producers from Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, and Greece. Later this year, Stoa plans to launch a Philosopher in Residence program, beginning with Northeastern University professor Jacob Stump, offering guided conversations rooted in timeless questions.
Stoa Wine Bar & Market, located at 4210 Via Marina, is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for lunch and 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. for dinner.
Prizes will be awarded across a range of categories, including heaviest halibut, heaviest fish overall, and heaviest white seabassThe 50th Annual Marina del Rey Halibut Derby, the longest-running fishing tournament on the West Coast, is set to return May 31 and June 1, 2025, bringing two days of competitive angling to the waters of Santa Monica Bay in support of local conservation programs.The popular event, hosted by Marina del Rey Anglers and Coastal Conservation Association California (CCA CAL), will feature...
Prizes will be awarded across a range of categories, including heaviest halibut, heaviest fish overall, and heaviest white seabass
The 50th Annual Marina del Rey Halibut Derby, the longest-running fishing tournament on the West Coast, is set to return May 31 and June 1, 2025, bringing two days of competitive angling to the waters of Santa Monica Bay in support of local conservation programs.
The popular event, hosted by Marina del Rey Anglers and Coastal Conservation Association California (CCA CAL), will feature weigh-ins each afternoon at Burton Chace Park, where participants will bring in halibut, white seabass, bass, and other catches in multiple divisions, including youth, women’s, kayak, and team competitions.
Fishing kicks off at sunrise on Saturday, May 31, and ends at 3 p.m. Sunday, June 1. Weigh stations will be open from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday and from 12 to 3:30 p.m. Sunday. Scales close promptly at 3:30 p.m., and any fish not weighed by then will not qualify.
Prizes will be awarded across a range of categories, including heaviest halibut, heaviest fish overall, and heaviest white seabass. New this year are side jackpot contests and special recognition for top-performing youth, women, and kayak anglers. A major fishing tackle raffle and awards ceremony will follow Sunday’s weigh-in.
A mandatory captains’ meeting will be held Friday, May 30, at 6 p.m. at the Del Rey Yacht Club. At least one representative from each team must attend.
Entry fees vary depending on registration date and category. Late individual registration is $150, with team entries at $300 for two anglers and $150 for each additional team member, up to six. Youth entries are $20 for those 12 and under and $50 for ages 13 to 15. All proceeds support local youth fishing initiatives and white seabass restoration efforts.
Fishing will be confined to Santa Monica Bay, and all participants must comply with tournament rules. A 25% weight bonus will be awarded for live fish released after weigh-in. Organizers encourage catch-and-release practices and use of circle hooks to reduce harm to fish.
The event is open to anglers of all ages and skill levels, including boaters, kayakers, and shore-based fishers. Those without boats can reserve space on local charters, including the *Betty-O* and *Free Spirit* out of Marina del Rey.
For more information and to register, visit https://www.mdranglers.com/event-5930140.
In 1995, Captain Keith Harrison graduated from the Sheriff’s Academy and began his career at the Inmate Reception Center, where he served as a line deputy and training officer. In 1997, he transferred to West Los Angeles Court, and shortly thereafter was selected to work on the transition team to open the new LAX Airport Courthouse. In 2000, he transferred to Marina Del Rey Station where he worked patrol, the Summer Enforcement and Community Relations/Special Problems Teams. As a Community Relations/Special Problems Team member he bega...
In 1995, Captain Keith Harrison graduated from the Sheriff’s Academy and began his career at the Inmate Reception Center, where he served as a line deputy and training officer. In 1997, he transferred to West Los Angeles Court, and shortly thereafter was selected to work on the transition team to open the new LAX Airport Courthouse. In 2000, he transferred to Marina Del Rey Station where he worked patrol, the Summer Enforcement and Community Relations/Special Problems Teams. As a Community Relations/Special Problems Team member he began the station first Youth Activities League and Clergy Council Programs.
In 2012, Harrison promoted to Sergeant and was assigned to Twin Towers Correctional Facility, where he worked the High Mental Observations Floors and the Correctional Treatment Center. In 2014, he returned to Marina Del Rey Station where he worked the Field Sergeant, Watch Sergeant, Acting Watch Commander, Scheduling/Training Sergeant, and Operations Sergeant positions.
In 2019, Harrison promoted to Lieutenant and transferred to County Services Bureau, where he worked as a Watch Commander, Service Area and Detective Bureau Lieutenant. In 2021, he again returned to Marina Del Rey Station as the Operations Lieutenant. In June of 2023, he was promoted to Captain and remained.
Harrison has been a lifelong member of Faithful Central Bible Church where he has been a mentor, teacher and group leader for its Rites of Passage and Champion Men’s programs for many years.
Harrison received an Administrative Arts Degree from West Los Angeles College and a Bachelor of Science Degree from California State University of Long Beach.
Join us for a virtual public meeting on LASD’s 2024 Military Equipment Report. Community members are invited to ask questions and engage directly with the Department regarding the acquisition, funding,…
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The primary Mission of Parking Enforcement Detail (PED) is to ensure the residents of the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are provided with expeditious vehicle movement to help alleviate parking congestion, improve the availability of parking choices, and to assist the communities in addressing all parking related matters.
PED shall protect and with fairness, apportion scarce parking spaces for all legitimate vehicles by insuring those who violate parking regulations are properly addressed through the California Vehicle Codes (CVC), the Los Angeles County Vehicle Codes (LACoVC) and other various municipal codes.
For more information, view our Parking Enforcement Information Handouts:
Uniform Guidelines and Community Awareness With more than 10,000 sworn Deputies serving neighborhoods across the region each day, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) remains committed to transparency and public…
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The primary Mission of Parking Enforcement Detail (PED) is to ensure the residents of the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are provided with expeditious vehicle movement to help alleviate parking congestion, improve the availability of parking choices, and to assist the communities in addressing all parking related matters.
PED shall protect and with fairness, apportion scarce parking spaces for all legitimate vehicles by insuring those who violate parking regulations are properly addressed through the California Vehicle Codes (CVC), the Los Angeles County Vehicle Codes (LACoVC) and other various municipal codes.
For more information, view our Parking Enforcement Information Handouts:
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the County of Los Angeles want all county residents to celebrate this day safely, responsibly and encourage everyone to visit a firework show.…
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The primary Mission of Parking Enforcement Detail (PED) is to ensure the residents of the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are provided with expeditious vehicle movement to help alleviate parking congestion, improve the availability of parking choices, and to assist the communities in addressing all parking related matters.
PED shall protect and with fairness, apportion scarce parking spaces for all legitimate vehicles by insuring those who violate parking regulations are properly addressed through the California Vehicle Codes (CVC), the Los Angeles County Vehicle Codes (LACoVC) and other various municipal codes.
For more information, view our Parking Enforcement Information Handouts:
As the weather heats up, pools are a great way to cool off—but safety comes first. Here are a few tips to keep everyone safe: Always supervise children around a…
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The primary Mission of Parking Enforcement Detail (PED) is to ensure the residents of the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are provided with expeditious vehicle movement to help alleviate parking congestion, improve the availability of parking choices, and to assist the communities in addressing all parking related matters.
PED shall protect and with fairness, apportion scarce parking spaces for all legitimate vehicles by insuring those who violate parking regulations are properly addressed through the California Vehicle Codes (CVC), the Los Angeles County Vehicle Codes (LACoVC) and other various municipal codes.
For more information, view our Parking Enforcement Information Handouts:
As Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) officially reopens, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) is reinforcing its commitment to public safety in the fire-affected areas of the city of Malibu,…
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The primary Mission of Parking Enforcement Detail (PED) is to ensure the residents of the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are provided with expeditious vehicle movement to help alleviate parking congestion, improve the availability of parking choices, and to assist the communities in addressing all parking related matters.
PED shall protect and with fairness, apportion scarce parking spaces for all legitimate vehicles by insuring those who violate parking regulations are properly addressed through the California Vehicle Codes (CVC), the Los Angeles County Vehicle Codes (LACoVC) and other various municipal codes.
For more information, view our Parking Enforcement Information Handouts:
The following survey is designed to assist the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department in its ongoing efforts to enhance our relationship with the community we serve. Please note that this…
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The primary Mission of Parking Enforcement Detail (PED) is to ensure the residents of the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County are provided with expeditious vehicle movement to help alleviate parking congestion, improve the availability of parking choices, and to assist the communities in addressing all parking related matters.
PED shall protect and with fairness, apportion scarce parking spaces for all legitimate vehicles by insuring those who violate parking regulations are properly addressed through the California Vehicle Codes (CVC), the Los Angeles County Vehicle Codes (LACoVC) and other various municipal codes.
For more information, view our Parking Enforcement Information Handouts:
Birds, butterflies and wetland vegetation thrive at Oxford Basin, a decade after its restorationTen years ago, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works renovated the Oxford Retention Basin (ORB), a stormwater retention basin built during the late 1950s in conjunction with Marina Del Rey.Prehistorically, the basin area had been part of the Ballona Wetlands, which were dredged and filled for the Marina's construction.Above: A 1950s aerial photo of the Ballona Wetlands, prior to Marina Del Rey and other devel...
Ten years ago, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Works renovated the Oxford Retention Basin (ORB), a stormwater retention basin built during the late 1950s in conjunction with Marina Del Rey.
Prehistorically, the basin area had been part of the Ballona Wetlands, which were dredged and filled for the Marina's construction.
Above: A 1950s aerial photo of the Ballona Wetlands, prior to Marina Del Rey and other developments. The red arrow shows the Oxford Basin location.
Connected to the Marina by a single tide gate offering limited water circulation, the ORB was often a smelly, algae-filled eyesore, but even then provided bird nesting habitat. Non-native trees around the basin added leaf matter to the water, promoting unnatural biological growth.
Renovation began in 2014 and included removing non-native trees and plants, replacing them with native species. The renovation also included the construction of two tide gates to replace the old single gate and the construction of a vegetated berm that separates the gates and aids in circulation.
Above: Interpretive panel at a viewpoint along Washington Blvd. The twin tides gates are visible at the upper right.
This improved water circulation by letting flood tidewater in through one gate and ebb tide flow out the other gate. However, because the gates do not allow tides to reach their maximum height within the basin (to prevent street flooding), water circulation is muted.
Above: The ORB shortly after construction. Note the circulation berm. Rising tides enter on the far side of the berm and return to the Marina from the near side during ebb tide.
The circulation design minimizes stagnation within the basin (which helps decrease odors), but water quality within the basin is still subject to existing polluted runoff from Venice streets during rainfall events and dry weather. During dry weather, the basin water quality mirrors that in Marina Del Rey due to daily tidal exchange.
Above: Monitoring data showing increasing native and decreasing non-native vegetation at the ORB over time.
In the ten years since renovation, the native vegetation surrounding the ORB has grown in substantially (see chart above). Prior to renovation, a few local activists opposed the removal of several non-native eucalyptus trees adjacent to the basin. They argued that the removals would harm nesting birds and the monarch butterfly, which were known to rest there during their migration.
Experts know that birds simply nest in other nearby trees when a tree is removed. In fact, the bird variety and abundance at the ORB has increased from about 20 species observed pre-construction to 57 different species observed over the post-renovation monitoring period.
Above: The Oxford Retention Basin today.
As for the monarch butterfly, they also find other trees in which to rest during their journey, and the ORB now supports native milkweed, on which the monarch depends for its life cycle.
Above: Western regional Monarch butterfly count from 1997-2024. Source: Xerxes Society
The basin renovation project also added public access features, including a footpath along the southern border and observation decks along the northern shoreline adjacent to Washington Boulevard.
Above: Plenty of eucalyptus trees still line the path outside of the ORB fence line
Happy 10-Year anniversary, Oxford Retention Basin!
Above: A Great Blue Heron rests at the ORB
Enjoy your Ballona Wetlands!
References:
Western Monarch Count. Xerxes Society for Invertebrate Conservationhttps://westernmonarchcount.or...
Oxford Retention Basin Multiuse Enhancement Project. Post-Construction Monitoring 5-Year Summary. Final Report. Prepared For: Los Angeles County Flood Control District 900 S. Fremont Ave. Alhambra, California 91803 Contract No.: PW15261 Task Order No.: 13434.200.006 November 2021. Weston Solutions.
Disclosure of author's affiliations:
Dr. David W. Kay served on the Board of Directors of the non-profit Friends of Ballona Wetlands from 2007 until 2015, and served as Board President in 2012-13. He presently serves on the Board of Ballona Discovery Park in Playa Vista. Dr. Kay is a staunch advocate for the state of California's plans to restore the Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve.
From 1984 until 2022, Dr. Kay was employed by Southern California Edison Company, exclusively in the company's environmental services organizations. His many responsibilities included restoration of the 440-acre San Dieguito Wetlands near Del Mar. He retired in 2022 as Senior Manager for Major Project Environmental Management at the company, after 38 years of service.
Dr. Kay earned bachelor and masters degrees in biology and a doctorate in environmental science.
See Dr. Kay’s Patch Community Contributor profile here.
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