AA 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 Torrance, CA

How does In-home Senior Care in Torrance, 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 Torrance, 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 Torrance, 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 Torrance, 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

Aid and Attendance 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 Torrance, 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 Torrance,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 Torrance, 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 Torrance, CA

Christmas in ... September? Decoration dismay hits a Torrance mall — but is it justified?

When Christmas appeared to come early at the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance, the internet was appalled.A snapshot posted on Reddit Thursday seemed to show that the retail industry had taken Christmas creep way too far. Headlined, in part, "Insanity at the Del Amo Mall",...

When Christmas appeared to come early at the Del Amo Fashion Center in Torrance, the internet was appalled.

A snapshot posted on Reddit Thursday seemed to show that the retail industry had taken Christmas creep way too far. Headlined, in part, "Insanity at the Del Amo Mall", the photo showed a Christmas tree decorated with glittery red, green and silver baubles in a plaza at the mall, right between Bunny Hills and Michael Kors.

Festive garlands adorned the upstairs railing. Two silver reindeer sculptures stood nearby.

Had the mall really put up Christmas decorations in mid-September?

“Come on, I thought the rule is after Thanksgiving,” one Reddit user commented. A recent visitor to the mall agreed, commenting, “My wife and I were aghast."

One headline declared, "Torrance mall already decorated for Christmas."

Read more: Column: We know Christmas comes earlier every year, but this is ridiculous

But like so much in Southern California, the scene in Torrance was just that.

On a balmy Friday afternoon, the day after the start of the decoration dismay, the only sign of Christmas was at the shoot of a holiday commercial.

“It’s supposed to run in December,” a headset-clad member of the film crew confirmed.

A group of dancers in black velvet dresses turned cartwheels across the festive backdrop, while a male model dressed as a bellhop practiced carrying a tall stack of wrapped gifts after a Christmas shopper in a plaid skirt. There was a Santa Claus, and a coat rack filled with red Santa costumes next to a fluorescent screen illuminating the set.

Some mall visitors interrupted their shopping trips to watch the scene from the upper floor.

“For a bit, I thought the decorations were real,” said Adrian Rivera. “It was a little unexpected. But I don’t mind. It brings out the joy of Christmas.”

Another passerby, Richard Lima, carried his 2-year-old daughter — who by coincidence was clothed in a red dress with a white collar.

“We’re Christmas fanatics. We’re already starting to bring out the Christmas stuff at home," Lima said. "We usually put up the tree in the first week of November.”

Read more: If your Christmas tree is up already, here's what health experts have to say about it

As the shoot wrapped, cheers and applause erupted from the crew on the set.

Christmas was going back in the box — for a bit, at least.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

Beloved Spires Restaurant in Torrance closing after an almost 50-year run

Spires Restaurant in Torrance, which has served as a gathering place for families and seniors for almost 50 years, will close to make way for two new eateries.Spires’s last day is Friday, May 26.Property owner Plaza Del Amo Properties, LLC, applied and received approval from the Torrance Planning Commission in August for a conditional use permit to build a two-tenant restaurant with outdoor dining a...

Spires Restaurant in Torrance, which has served as a gathering place for families and seniors for almost 50 years, will close to make way for two new eateries.

Spires’s last day is Friday, May 26.

Property owner Plaza Del Amo Properties, LLC, applied and received approval from the Torrance Planning Commission in August for a conditional use permit to build a two-tenant restaurant with outdoor dining at 21107 Hawthorne Blvd., where Spires is currently located.

The building that houses the restaurant will be demolished and two 2,479-square foot restaurants, each with 495-square foot outdoor dining areas, will take its place. At this time, no tenants have been identified by the property owner.

In the last few weeks, waves of regulars and occasional diners have streamed in to eat at Spires one last time before it permanently closes at 2 p.m. Friday. Many have brought flowers, balloons and cards to show the staff there their appreciation. Some have even inquired about purchasing the restaurant’s interior decor as a keepsake.

Among the grieving customers was Evelyn Dunn.

“It just breaks my heart that they can’t keep something that’s one of the few old-fashioned, what would you call, coffee house kind of family restaurants,” Dunn said recently, “in the sea of all of these fancy places that you can’t afford anymore.”

The 76-year-old resident has been a regular at the restaurant since it opened in 1977. She found its American diner-style menu high quality and reasonably priced.

After her kids were born, Dunn started taking them to eat at Spires as well, where the family often ran into her colleagues and neighbors, she said. Over time, they have developed a close relationship with other customers and staff at the restaurant.

“We’re all kind of like family,” Dunn said.

She recalled an incident where she ordered a vegetable soup from Spires while recovering at a hospital close to the restaurant, and the food came back with get-well messages written on its bag. When her grandson was born, a waitress from the restaurant visited him at the hospital, she said.

“It’s all the good stuff that we kind of miss in this world today. People touch each other, talk to each other and find out about their families,” Dunn said. “It’s just a wonderful experience.”

Restaurant owner Chris Haretakis, who has run the business for more than 30 years, said Spires has become a sort of “second home” to many customers.

“I’ve seen many generations of people grow up here. I’ve seen people get married, have kids, their kids grow up, and then they have kids,” Haretakis said. “The customers are family, the same as my staff is my family.”

Some of them have made it a habit to eat at the restaurant for breakfast and dinner every day. They even made it a point to call Haretakis to make sure there’s no hard feelings when unforeseen circumstances prevented them from coming in, he said.

“Every day I come to work, I recognize about 85% of the customers. They’re like either daily or (there) 3, 4 times a week,” Haretakis said. “And I think the reason we were able to maintain that loyal following is because it’s like a familiarity. People, when they come, they see the same friendly faces that they recognize and they feel comfortable.”

There are around 20 employees at the restaurant, Haretakis said. He said he hopes to migrate as many of them to another Spires restaurant about 3.5 miles away. That location, 1750 Sepulveda Blvd., will be the only remaining Spires branch in Torrance after Haretakis’s restaurant closes.

“It’s the old chicken and the egg syndrome,” Haretakis said. “Basically, if we can get business over there, then we can support bringing some staff from here to there, that’s our goal.”

Victor Sanchez, a manager at the restaurant, said it will be hard to say goodbye.

“A lot of familiar faces the whole seven years that I’ve been working here,” he said.

The restaurant is part of the small Spires chain that was founded in 1965. Greek immigrant John Haretakis, Chris Haretakis’s uncle, founded the first diner on the corner of Euclid Street and Ball Road in Anaheim.

From there, the elder Haretakis went on to open more than 30 locations in Southern California and even parts of Texas. But over the years, as locations and demographics changed, the number of Spires restaurants narrowed, the younger Haretakis said. A Long Beach branch shut down in 2019 to make way for a Starbucks and a Jack in the Box.

There are several other Spires in the area, though, including in Carson, Lawndale, Long Beach, Ontario and Tustin.

Family-friendly American diners like Spires are losing their appeal to fast-food joints, Haretakis said, as more young clientele choose convenience and speed over traditional dining.

“It’s sad,” Haretakis said, “but at the same time, we’ve had a great run here.”

Our best stories about your local area, handpicked by editors each day.

Hurricane Hilary, C Line extension support in Torrance, and more

Earlier this month, Lincoln Property Company announced that Verve Talent & Literary Agency is relocating its global headquarters to BA/SE, an office complex located at 959 Seward Street in the Hollywood Media District.J.H. Snyder Co.Verve will occupy 53,000 square feet of space in the campus, which was developed by J.H Snyder Co. and purchased by Lincoln Property Company, which has since added a food and beverage kiosk, new outdoor patios, and other amenities.Verve was represented by CBRE vice chairman Jeff Pion, whi...

Earlier this month, Lincoln Property Company announced that Verve Talent & Literary Agency is relocating its global headquarters to BA/SE, an office complex located at 959 Seward Street in the Hollywood Media District.

J.H. Snyder Co.

Verve will occupy 53,000 square feet of space in the campus, which was developed by J.H Snyder Co. and purchased by Lincoln Property Company, which has since added a food and beverage kiosk, new outdoor patios, and other amenities.

Verve was represented by CBRE vice chairman Jeff Pion, while BA/SE was represented by Kent Handleman and Douglas Brown of Lincoln Property Company.

Here's what we're reading this week:

Hurricane Hilary is upgraded to Category 4, amplifying danger to Southern California "Projections show the storm has about a 50% chance of hitting Southern California late Sunday or early Monday as a tropical storm, meaning sustained winds at or above 39 mph. Hilary strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane Thursday." (LA Times)

CicLAvia—Koreatown meets Hollywood Cancelled While event organizers had originally vowed to press on rain or shine, a look at the forecast in the days ahead has prompted a reconsideration: CicLAvia's August 20th event is officially canceled. Hope for better weather next time! (CicLAvia)

L.A. Housing Department Demands Residential Hotels Stop Renting Rooms to Tourists "The Los Angeles Housing Department has sent warning letters to the owners of 17 buildings meant for low-cost housing, demanding that they stop renting rooms to tourists in violation of city law." (LAist)

Metro

Recent Poll Show Community Support for C Line (Green) Extension to Torrance Project Metro claps back at the Torrance City Councilmembers who have recently come out in opposition to the C Line extension (The Source)

Eyes on the Street: New La Brea Bus Lanes are Open "The initially announced ~5.9 miles of bus lane were whittled down to just ~2.5 miles installed in the current project. City Councilmember Heather Hutt continues to block implementation below Olympic Boulevard." (Streetsblog LA)

In Reversal, Feds Approve One Of Bass’ Biggest Requests To Speed Up Homeless Housing "Instead of having to gather a variety of bank statements, tax filings and other proof of income before being able to move in, the waiver allows the city to move unhoused people in first and provide their paperwork later." (LAist)

Noise pollution precedent set by People’s Park case blocks housing in LA "The city of Los Angeles’ defeat is believed to be the first of its kind to rely on the infamous Berkeley noise precedent. The appeal is focused on a proposed rooftop deck, which appellants worry will generate too much noise." (Daily Cal)

WSAB Transit Corridor Rename the Project Submit suggestions to do exactly what the name of the website says by September 29 and you could win a $100 gift card (Rename WSAB)

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California city council overreach prompts pushback from aviation groups

A staunch legal warning was submitted to the city of Torrance, California, after the city council voted to prohibit many forms of aeronautical activity around Zamperini Field on the sole basis of noise control.AOPA views this action as a clear legal violation of federal law, as Title 49 of the United States Code grants the FAA “exclusive sovereignty of airspace of the United States.” A...

A staunch legal warning was submitted to the city of Torrance, California, after the city council voted to prohibit many forms of aeronautical activity around Zamperini Field on the sole basis of noise control.

AOPA views this action as a clear legal violation of federal law, as Title 49 of the United States Code grants the FAA “exclusive sovereignty of airspace of the United States.”

A letter in response to the action was submitted to the city on September 8 by AOPA in collaboration with NATA (until recently known as the National Air Transportation Association), Helicopter Association International, General Aviation Manufacturers Association, and the National Business Aviation Association. Citing numerous sources of case law, the collective organizations made it clear that the council’s decision to prohibit aeronautical activity cannot stand against federal preemption and should be withdrawn.

“Unless the City can demonstrate that there is an exemption that would allow the City to regulate aircraft in flight, it cannot take actions that are calculated to regulate such aircraft for the purpose of limiting noise within U.S. airspace,” the letter states.

The signees encouraged the city to suspend the action until the FAA can verify whether the city is acting in legal compliance with the federal agency, “to avoid the waste of taxpayer funds in attempting to defend clear violations of the law.” The collective organizations are interested in a collaborative approach to solving this problem in the hopes that everyone—the city, the airport, the community, and the pilots—sees a successful outcome. To continue the ongoing conversation, the signees have requested an in-person meeting with the city of Torrance no later than October 13.

Over the last year, AOPA has worked with the Torrance Airport Association, homeowners associations, and flight schools in an attempt to come up with reasonable solutions to address the increased activity and noise. An ad hoc working group was also formed by pilots and homeowners association representatives to present solutions to the council that would address both parties’ concerns as well as satisfying each of their needs. Recommendations by the group to the city have been ignored.

In response to community outreach and the working group, flight schools have taken voluntary measures to limit and halt overflights of the south pattern at the field by their aircraft and have adjusted flight schedules to space out their training flights.

The actions taken by the Torrance City Council illustrate a growing airspace congestion problem in Southern California. The authors of the September 8 letter hope it will discourage local governments throughout the region facing similar issues from disregarding federal law and instead encourage them to embrace a collaborative approach between the aviation industry and the community to best identify solutions.

Lillian Geil

Communications Specialist

Communications Specialist Lillian Geil is a student pilot and a graduate of Columbia University who joined AOPA in 2021.

Alpine Village in Torrance closes after more than 50 years

TORRANCE, Calif. - The iconic Alpine Market in Torrance - which has been selling German groceries and goods to the Southern California community since 1968 - has shut its doors for good.In a message posted to social media, Alpine Village thanked its longtime customers for their support."The Alpine Market has closed permanentl...

TORRANCE, Calif. - The iconic Alpine Market in Torrance - which has been selling German groceries and goods to the Southern California community since 1968 - has shut its doors for good.

In a message posted to social media, Alpine Village thanked its longtime customers for their support.

"The Alpine Market has closed permanently. Thank you for your patronage over the many years," the market wrote on its Facebook page.

People who had visited the market were quick to share their memories of the historic establishment.

SUGGESTED: San Pedro Fish Market closing after 65 years

"I spoke with the owner before they closed. She said many people were showing up when they heard about the closing, yet hadn't been there in years! Support your local/small businesses while they're open people!!!" one person said.

"This was the most nostalgic place for my family. My Opa and Oma brought their family from Germany to Long Beach. This was like home to them. My family would spend many Oktoberfests there. Make 2 hour trips from the High Desert to get Weisswurst and Leberkasse for Christmas Eve every year. I am truly heartbroken but I am so grateful for all the amazing memories built at Alpine Village. Gone but never forgotten.The end of an era. As a Belgian immigrant, the Market allowed me to enjoy many of the foods I missed and could not find here. Bavarian Weisswurst was an acceptable replacement to Boudin Blanc, and their Country Pate was absolutely legendary. The bakery was 100% the real deal, with rolls the likes of which were impossible to find anywhere else, and pastries like I knew them (their Napoleons were amazing). We would gather there twice a year and post up at one of the tables outside, spending a couple of hours eating picnic style, going in and out of the Market for supplies, it was always a great time. Thank you for many years of gastronomic delight. You will be sorely missed," another person shared.

"So sad. I remember going to Alpine Village since I was a kid, we'd have a meal, visit the shops. Later as an adult I visit the restaurant and bar, buy some meats from the market and of course the best Oktoberfest. Many fantastic memories here," another commented.

According to its website, the Alpine Village Shops will remain open.

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