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Taking care of your Loved One Is What We Do BEST!

It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always

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Home Care In Wilmington, NC

Home Care Wilmington, NC

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 Bellamy Mansion Museum 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 Wilmington, NC is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.

 In-Home Care Wilmington, NC

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The Always Best Care Difference

Since 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.

Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.

The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.

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TESTIMONIALS

“Wow, the virtual reality dementia training is very eye opening. Gives you an idea of what someone living with dementia is like. This is such a horrible disease but this helps care givers understand the disease. Thanks so much!!”

Michelle M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Enjoyed taking this virtual trip through the mind of a dementia.”

Robyn P.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This was a very good experience. It changed my mind on a lot of things . I didn’t know it was that bad for them and it’s very sad , I will always treat them all with care and love no matter what because there dealing with something that’s really hard to deal with .”

Lanita C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I had a great experience”

Daqua D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great experience! I think everyone who cares for someone with dementia should have this experience.”

Conesha T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“This experience was great. It gave me a different perspective on dealing with dementia. I now know what to do differently when working with my residents. I think A all caregivers should experience this training.”

Pauline T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“It was a great experience and it is a eye opener I loved it”

Star S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Very knowledgeable and informative! Definitely recommend”

Gabby H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Great training”

famata S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider Always Best Care provided excellent, diligent, responsive and caring home health assistance to my mother who was recovering from an unexpected surgery. They were able to assist on incredibly short notice and made a difficult situation for our family much better. Each of their carers was exceptionally professional and attentive, especially Lori and Kylie who were incredible. I felt safe leaving my loved one in their care and appreciated that they went above and beyond to meet our needs. They provided regular updates to me and my family and made my mother feel so well attended, especially as she needed extra mobility and personal care help. I would absolutely not work with any other company, should we ever need home health assistance again. Highly recommend.”

cpowell52
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TESTIMONIALS

“They helped me with getting a wheelchair! They didn't want anything but to help me gain my mobility! They are all super nice and very helpful! Give them your trust, they have mine. If I ever need home help, it'll be through them!”

Mallory M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I feel so blessed to be served by such caring and helpful people. I had to downsize due to an unexpected illness and Always Best Care (ABC) stepped in to make this possible. Kind, compassion, pleasant, friendly, joyful and talented professionals comprise those providing this service. I literally couldn’t have lived for at my assisted living since I had so many hospital visits each week. I didn’t want to go alone to these appointments and this freed my family from needless distress and worry about my wellbeing when they couldn’t be there. I highly recommend ABC since they are an essential component providing excellent and reliable support.”

Betty H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“ABC services do an amazing job. They have helped my 90 year old mother in law transition into her new home after moving to Raleigh from Winston Salem. She has dialysis 3x a week and they have worked so hard to coordinate a schedule to make sure everything runs smoothly. Sherry continues to amaze me in how she is able to help figure out schedules and provide customer services in a kind and professional manner. We will continue to look to this wonderful service provider as her needs change and feel blessed to have them on site at Atri”

Betty T.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I cannot recommend this service enough. The owner Shawn was wonderful to speak with. He was sincerely concerned about my mom and our family. He is an excellent listener and introduced me to Paige who is equally wonderful. Together they found a great place for my mother in a very short time. Paige was always available to speak on the phone and addressed my questions or concerns. I would recommend using this service for your loved one. Laura B of Raleigh”

Laura B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“These people are Angels. Kathryn was lightning quick with new solutions everytime things changed, and things changed constantly. My dad has a chance to live the rest of his life with dignity and my mom has a chance to live a fuller life because of the help we got from Kathryn and this team. They have a great network and valuable knowledge but what observed that makes them invaluable is that they care...and when you are on this situation I found that this is the quality that matters the most. Cannot thank them enough.”

Bull H.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Kind aides who were patient and caring with my Mother. Quality service.”

Kim M.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Excellent! Shawn was a Godsend. He found a great, affordable community for my Mom. We are very satisfied with his service and professionalism. He took his time and our requirements and found the perfect place. Highly recommend him and Always Best Care!”

Charles K.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I contacted Shawn when my mother returned home from the hospital. There are so many options it was confusing for me! Shawn and his team sent me several places to review and then accompanied me to visit independent living facilities. I appreciate the resources and information provided. Shawn, thank you for being focused on our family's needs and sharing your expertise. Your compassion and patience is so very appreciated!”

Joanne S.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Watching your parents age is an emotional experience. My mother has suffered from emphysema since the early 2000s and was diagnosed with dementia in 2018. We've worked with many companies to provide care for her and companionship. Since 2020, as my mother has significantly declined, we've had to make the decision to move her into a facility. For the past three years, Always Best, and more specifically Nancy Newcomer, has provided consistent and quality care for our family. Nancy is always on time, caring, and reliable. We've experienced companies with high turnover and feel blessed to have had Nancy's support for three years. She doesn’t do this solely for a paycheck but also checks on my dad on her days off and genuinely cares. I'd highly recommend this company to help care for your aging loved ones.”

Alison B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“Other Navigation through the process of finding a Memory Care Facility for my husband. The Owner. Met with my daughter and me. We included my husband. Right away we could hear see and feel this man's compassionate heart. He cared for his own aging family members and can relate. He personally called to check in with us despite the fact that we needed a facility and not home care. Taking it one step further he went on tours with us and we discussed pros and cons without his bias of one over another. Once our loved one was placed this gentleman continued advising at our initiation of calls. He never failed to call back. Highly recommend this man.”

Sharon
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TESTIMONIALS

“Phenomenal services providing peace of mind during difficult times when your elderly loved ones need you the most. Highly recommend!”

Stephanie B.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I could not be happier with this service. I schedule care in 15 minute or 30 minute visits for 6 visits a day. They make sure that my 96 year old mother takes her meds, walks to meals, they deliver her meals when she is too tired to walk, they water her plants, bathe her, they will help in anyway to provide the best care. Shawn Cothran, the owner, made a personal visit to her room to make sure she had all that she needs. The caregivers; Vera, Jackie, Toni, Elizabeth and many others could not be better. I highly recommend this service.”

Sandra D.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I Love Always Best Care, we have an amazing team and I am lucky to be surrounded by such caring hearts.”

Shawn C.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I am a past client of this provider Staff helped guide and navigate options for my mother. We found a new home for her and the extra attention she is now receiving has given both the family and her comfort and peace of mind. It is a challenging transition and the help was invaluable. Many thanks!”

Jody J.
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TESTIMONIALS

“I would have to say out of all the places I've work ABC is by far the best place I've worked our boss and staff are everything.????????????????????????????????????????????????????”

L K.

What is Non-Medical Senior Care in Wilmington, NC?

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

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When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.

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

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

 Senior Care Wilmington, NC

Types of Elderly Care in Wilmington, NC

To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:

Personal Care

Personal Care Services

If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.

Common personal care services include assistance with:

  • Eating
  • Mobility Issues
  • Incontinence
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Grooming

Respite Care Wilmington, NC
Home Helper

Home Helper Services

Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.

Common home helper care services include assistance with:

  • Medication Reminders
  • Meal Preparation
  • Pet Care
  • Prescription Refills
  • Morning Wake-Up
  • Walking
  • Reading
 Caregivers Wilmington, NC
Companionship Services

Companionship Services

Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Greenfield Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.

Common companionship services include:

  • Grocery Shopping
  • Transportation to Appointments
  • Nutritional Assistance
  • Conversation
  • Planning Outings
  • Completing Errands
  • Transportation to Community
  • Events and Social Outings
Home Care Wilmington, NC
Respite Care

Respite Care Services

According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy nearby activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress reduces the risk of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local manna or visit Wilmington Light Infantry Building / John A. Taylor House, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.

At the end of the day, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.

If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.

 In-Home Care Wilmington, NC

Benefits of Home Care in Wilmington, NC

Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:

Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.

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Aging in Place: The Preferred Choice for Most Seniors

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

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

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

How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?

A study published by the American Society on Aging found that more than half of seniors say their home's emotional value means more than how much their home is worth in monetary value. It stands to reason, then, that a senior's home is where they want to grow old.

With the help of elderly care in Wilmington, NC, seniors don't have to age in a sterilized care facility. Instead, they can age gracefully in the place they want to be most: their home. In contrast, seniors who move to a long-term care facility must adapt to new environments, new people, and new systems that the facility implements. At this stage in life, this kind of drastic change can be more harmful than helpful.

Institutional care facilities like nursing homes often put large groups of people together to live in one location. On any given day, dozens of staff members and caregivers run in and out of these facilities. Being around so many new people in a relatively small living environment can be dangerous for a seniors' health and wellbeing. When you consider that thousands of seniors passed away in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, opting for in-home care is often a safer, healthier choice for seniors.

Aging in place has been shown to improve seniors' quality of life, which helps boost physical health and also helps insulate them from viral and bacterial risks found in elderly living facilities.

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

More independence, a healthier life, and increased comfort are only a few benefits of aging in place. You have to take into consideration the role of cost and convenience. Simply put, it's usually easier and more affordable to help seniors age in place than it is to move them into an institutional care facility. According to the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, seniors who age in the comfort of their homes can save thousands of dollars per month.

In-home care services from Always Best Care, for instance, are often less expensive than long-term solutions, which can cost upwards of six figures per year. To make matters worse, many residential care facilities are reluctant to accept long-term care insurance and other types of payment assistance.

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

 Elderly Care Wilmington, NC

Affordable Care

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

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

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

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

If your loved one qualifies, Medicaid may help reduce in-home care costs. Review your NC's Medicaid program laws and benefits, and make sure your senior's financial and medical needs meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
Attendance and aid benefits through military service can cover a portion of the costs associated with in-home care for veterans and their spouses.
Many senior care services like in-home care are included in long-term care insurance options. Research different long-term care solutions to find a plan that provides coverage for senior care.
Home care can be included as part of a senior's private insurance plan. Read over your loved one's insurance policy carefully or speak with their insurance provider to determine if in-home care is covered.
Depending on the life insurance plan, you may be able to apply your policy toward long-term care. You may be able to use long-term-care coverage to help pay for in-home elderly care.
 Senior Care Wilmington, NC

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 Wilmington, NC understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.

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

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

Assisted Living Referral Services

While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.

Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.


Respite Care Wilmington, NC

At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.

Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:

  • Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Recreational Activities
  • Social Outings
  • Emergency Medical Response
  • Medication Monitoring
  • Family Visitation
  • Personal Care
 Caregivers Wilmington, NC

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:

  • The Commons At Brightmore of Wilmington
  • Brookdale Wilmington
  • SeniorLife Assisted Living & Senior Care Wilmington NC
  • New Hanover House
  • Morningside of Wilmington
  • Coastal Cove of Wilmington
Home Care Wilmington, NC

For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.

 In-Home Care Wilmington, NC

Taking the First Step with Always Best Care

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

A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way

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A draft of your care plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive

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Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider

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

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

At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Wilmington, NC 24-hours a day or only need a respite for a couple of hours, we are here to serve you.

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

 Elderly Care Wilmington, NC

Latest News in Wilmington, NC

NCDOT answers your burning questions about icy roads days after winter storm

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - When it comes to the aftermath of Tuesday night’s winter storm, road conditions are still top of mind.As ongoing icy conditions plague drivers from Southport to Carolina Beach, WECT took viewers’ questions and concerns directly to North Carolina Department of Transportation Engineer Battle Whitley.How does NCDOT grade the success of their response?In response to how NCDOT grades their response to the storm, Whitley approves of DOT’s efforts.He pointed out that winter s...

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) - When it comes to the aftermath of Tuesday night’s winter storm, road conditions are still top of mind.

As ongoing icy conditions plague drivers from Southport to Carolina Beach, WECT took viewers’ questions and concerns directly to North Carolina Department of Transportation Engineer Battle Whitley.

How does NCDOT grade the success of their response?

In response to how NCDOT grades their response to the storm, Whitley approves of DOT’s efforts.

He pointed out that winter storms don’t impact Southeastern North Carolina often. In fact, the last time neighbors have delt with snow and ice like this was back in 2018.

Even still, there have been grumblings from drivers about iced-over roads days after the storm hit.

Whitley said NCDOT is doing their best.

“To be honest, I think we’ve handled it pretty well. We’ve handled it as well as we can with what we have,” Whitley said.

How well did NCDOT prepare ahead of the storm?

In response to how DOT crews prepared leading up to the storm, Whitley said DOT leaders were closely watching the forecasts.

However, WECT’s First Alert Weather Team continuously reported for over a week that the region would see Arctic temperatures, with a high chance of snow and ice.

The DOT admits the biggest problem now is the frigid temperatures and being unable to fully treat roads due to refreezing.

The state had 45 trucks to treat and plow roads for Southeastern North Carolina to begin with, but as of Thursday, there are more than 60 trucks in the region thanks to equipment being brought in from across the state.

Why wasn’t more equipment brought in to begin with?

In response to being asked why additional equipment was not brought in to begin with, Whitley said, “Because they’re coming from areas that were also going to be impacted, they have to address their division as well before they can come help us.”

When will all the roads be ice-free?

NCDOT prioritizes clearing out major roads, like US 74 and I-40.

However, there are still plenty of roads, like Carolina Beach Rd. in Wilmington or Highway 87 in Brunswick County that are still tricky to travel on.

When asked when the NCDOT believes those are going to be cleared up, Whitley responded, “We’re hoping to get to those either maybe tomorrow [Friday]. Again, a lot of it’s going to depend on how well things go today [Thursday], and how much we can get accomplished on those major routes.”

Lessons learned from NCDOT’s response so far?

WECT also asked Whitley if there were any lessons learned from NCDOT’s preparation to response.

He said they are having those discussions now and hope to find ways to improve if we happen to see similar winter weather any time soon.

Copyright 2025 WECT. All rights reserved.

Homeowner insurance rates set to rise significantly across the Wilmington area

The deal between state regulators and the insurance industry calls for an average 15% increase by mid-2026. But many coastal areas will see much steeper increases.USA TODAY NETWORKN.C. Insurance Commi...

The deal between state regulators and the insurance industry calls for an average 15% increase by mid-2026. But many coastal areas will see much steeper increases.

USA TODAY NETWORK

N.C. Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey recently announced his department and the state's insurance companies had reached a legal settlement over how much the companies will be allowed to raise homeowner insurance rates over the next two years.

Industry had asked for an average statewide increase of 42%, with some areas around Wilmington seeing their rates double. The settlement calls for an average of 15% over the next two years, 7.5% this year and and another 7.5% next year, with areas along the N.C. coast seeing double that.

Causey hailed the deal as a victory for consumers and a fair settlement for the industry, which has been hammered by a series of natural disasters on both ends of the state in recent years.

“The insurance companies wanted to raise our homeowners’ rates up to 99.4% in some areas and an average 42.2% statewide in a single year,” Causey said in a statement. “I fought for consumers and knocked them back to 7.5% increases over two years with a maximum of 35% in any territory. We consider this settlement a big win for both homeowners and North Carolina.”

But property owners, especially in and around Wilmington, will still have to dig deeper into their pocketbooks to pay for insurance − and industry officials have said the deal doesn't solve the underlying problems that are driving insurance companies to seek steeper and steeper rate increases.

So is it a good deal? Let's dig into the facts.

How did we get here?

In January 2024, the N.C. Rate Bureau, a 14-member board that represents the industry, submitted a proposal to raise homeowner insurance premiums by 42% statewide and an eyewatering 99% in beach and coastal areas around Wilmington.

Since North Carolina is a regulated insurance market, industry needs to win state approval to raise rates.

The proposal, after a public hearing, was swiftly and vocally rejected by N.C. Insurance Commissioner Mike Causey.

The commissioner's action triggered a judicial hearing, which started in October and wrapped up late last year. Causey then had 45 days to announce his decision.

Why such a big proposed increase?

The N.C. Rate Bureau cited two main factors for the surprisingly large rate increase proposal. First, is the rising cost of pretty much everything, including labor and potential repairs, driven by inflation and the lingering impacts of labor and material shortages tied to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The other is climate change, which is causing more frequent and widespread property destruction, particularly tied to bigger and stronger hurricanes, as the warming climate fuels more severe weather events. Damages in North Carolina tied to 2018's Hurricane Florence, for example, were estimated to top $22 billion, with much of that hitting inland areas.

Other factors that are playing a role in the proposed substantial increase include the moratorium that was put into place during the pandemic on any rate increases and the cost of reinsurance − basically insurance for the insurance companies themselves in case a large-scale disaster stretches their financial ability to respond.

While a regulated market, theoretically meaning North Carolina just be ring-fenced from some of the issues hammering insurance markets in other states, notably Florida, Louisiana and California, reinsurance operates on a global scale. That means increasing costs of insurance for companies operating, say, in California due to massive wildfire payouts and exposure will be felt by companies operating in North Carolina.

What does the settlement call for?

The deal calls for an average statewide increase of 7.5% this year, effective June 1, and 7.5% next year in homeowner insurance rates.

But not all parts of the state are being treated equally.

Here's the breakdown for the Wilmington area and some other N.C. regions.

Why does the coast look like it's getting singled out?

Like many things, rate increases lag the big disasters that prompted the industry to re-examine its exposure and business model.

In an interview this fall, Causey said this rate increase request was mostly tied to the industry's costs and payouts associated with the spate of natural disasters, including 2018's Hurricane Florence, North Carolina saw several years ago. He added that his office is still dealing with claims tied to Florence, having recently paid one out to the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) tied to that devastating storm.

“It takes years from the time a storm hits for the rates to catch up,” Causey said.

That means damage from September's unnamed storm, which dropped historic amounts of rain on parts of the Cape Fear region, and losses associated with Tropical Storm Debby and any from Hurricane Helene aren't taken into account with this rate filing.

Ditto for the devastation Helene caused in Western North Carolina and why this rate increase is heavily weighted toward the coast and Eastern N.C.

With some damage estimates for Helene in the mountains pushing $60 billion, that will likely change when the rate bureau asks for its next increase.

Wait, another increase?

According to the settlement, the insurance industry can't ask for another increase until June 2027.

Causey said that is a fair compromise for all parties.

“These rates are sufficient to make sure that insurance companies, who have paid out large sums due to natural disasters and face increasing reinsurance costs due to national catastrophes, have adequate funds on hand to pay claims," he said in a statement.

But industry officials made it clear that they didn't get everything they wanted.

In a statement, Jarred Chappell, chief operating officer with the rate bureau, said the approved rate increase isn't "adequate."

"It’s a step in the right direction, but the North Carolina Rate Bureau asked for a larger increase because that’s what recent claims data called for," he said. "Storms have gotten stronger and more damaging, more people are living in disaster-prone areas, inflation in the construction industry has been particularly high and reinsurance costs have exploded.

"All these cost drivers remain an issue."

With little to forecast that any of those factors will change or even slow down in the coming years, especially with greenhouse gas emissions, the primary source of climate change, still on the rise globally, Chappell said the state and the insurance industry could find themselves at loggerheads again in just a few years.

"Unfortunately, when the two years covered by this settlement are up, we will almost certainly be in a similar position, calling for a significant increase to keep the North Carolina market strong and to encourage as many carriers as possible to compete here for customers," he said.

Reporter Gareth McGrath can be reached at [email protected] or @GarethMcGrathSN on X/Twitter. This story was produced with financial support from the Green South Foundation and the Prentice Foundation. The USA TODAY Network maintains full editorial control of the work.

Two chefs at this Wilmington restaurant are among the 2025 James Beard semifinalists

The James Beard Foundation has announced the semifinalists for the 2025 awards, which are considered the Oscars of the culinary world.These Restaurant and Chef Awards include 25 categories, from Outstanding Chef to the best chefs in 12 regions across the country. This year, one Wilmington restaurant – and two local chefs – are among those mentioned for Best Chef: Southeast.Sunny Gerhart and Lauren Krall Ivey are co-executive chefs at Olivero, 522 S. Third St. in downtown Wilmington."I am deeply honored t...

The James Beard Foundation has announced the semifinalists for the 2025 awards, which are considered the Oscars of the culinary world.

These Restaurant and Chef Awards include 25 categories, from Outstanding Chef to the best chefs in 12 regions across the country. This year, one Wilmington restaurant – and two local chefs – are among those mentioned for Best Chef: Southeast.

Sunny Gerhart and Lauren Krall Ivey are co-executive chefs at Olivero, 522 S. Third St. in downtown Wilmington.

"I am deeply honored to be nominated alongside Sunny and so many talented names in the hospitality industry," Krall Ivey said in a statement. "Working with my longtime friend as partners in the restaurant has been both creatively rewarding and incredibly fun. I am proud not only of the dishes we’ve developed at Olivero, but the culture in our kitchen, the passion of our staff, and the support from the Wilmington community."

“We certainly could not be in this situation without such an incredible, hardworking and dedicated team to support our vision," said Gerhart, who founded Olivero. "Lauren is such a talented chef, individual, and most importantly, one of my closest and dearest friends. We have been blessed to have an enormous amount of support from our community in Wilmington and are excited about being a part of such a growing and fantastic hospitality scene.”

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On April 2, a pared-down list of nominees will be released for each category. Winners will be announced at the James Beard Restaurant and Chef Awards ceremony on June 16 at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

In the spotlight:With another James Beard nod, this Wilmington chef champions local seafood

Other N.C. nominees

While Gerhart and Krall Ivey are the only Wilmington semifinalists, there are others from across the state.

Full list of Best Chef: Southeast semifinalists

This category includes chefs in Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and West Virginia. Neff and Chef Keith Rhodes of Catch in Wilmington have also been nominated in this category in previous years.

How much snow did North Carolina get? See snowfall totals for the South

A rare winter storm pummeled the South on Tuesday, smashing snow records from Texas to Florida and leaving behind dangerous road conditions and power outages.The National Weather Servic...

A rare winter storm pummeled the South on Tuesday, smashing snow records from Texas to Florida and leaving behind dangerous road conditions and power outages.

The National Weather Service on Monday called the snowstorm a once in a generation weather event, with New Orleans having not seen measurable snowfall since 2009. It has been 35 years for Jacksonville, and the weather service in Houston said it was the most significant winter storm in the area since at least 1960.

The storm's impact will be felt for days in Southern cities not accustomed to the deep freeze that has gripped most of the nation this week. More than 130,000 homes and businesses were without power Wednesday across Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Here's how much snow the southern states saw from the winter storm.

More:Winter weather scenes from across the Southeast U.S.

How to find snow totals near you

The National Weather Service provides an interactive map tracking snow accumulation reports around the U.S.

How much snow did the Carolinas get?

The eastern portion of North Carolina saw several inches of snow, with areas around Wilmington seeing as much as 5 inches, according to the weather service.

The Raleigh-Durham area saw between 1-2 inches, while the Charlotte area saw less than an inch, according to reports gathered by the NWS.

The South Carolina coast also saw snowfall, with Myrtle Beach and the surrounding area seeing around 5 inches as well.

How much snow did Florida get?

In Florida, the Pensacola area broke the state's 130-year-old record for total snowfall. The National Weather Service reported at least 5 inches in Pensacola and 8.8 inches in Milton, both breaking the previous Florida record of 4 inches set in 1954.

"We plead with our with our residents to continue to stay off the road," Pensacola Mayor D.C. Reeves said. "They put not only put themselves at risk, but they put our first responders at risk − and our ability to respond at risk."

How much snow did Alabama get?

In Alabama, 7.5 inches fell in Mobile, where such accumulations have not been seen in more than 60 years, according to the weather service.

Some areas east and south of Mobile, such as Spanish Fort and Silverhill, saw as much as 9.5 inches of snow.

How much snow did Louisiana get?

Louisiana, which saw its first-ever blizzard warning, saw areas such as Lafayette get as much as 10 inches of snow, according to the weather service.

New Orleans International Airport recorded 8 inches of snow, triple the previous record set more than 60 years ago, the National Weather Service reported.

How much snow did Texas get?

The storm began its march Tuesday in Texas, blanketing highways and snarling traffic before making its way east. Schools were closed Wednesday in the Houston-Galveston area, where up to 6 inches of snow fell.

How much snow did Georgia get?

Some areas of southwest Georgia, such as Blakely and Camilla, reported as much as 8 inches of snow, according to the NWS. The Atlanta area reported about an inch of snow.

Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at [email protected].

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