It's no secret, most of us would like to stay in our own home as we age. Yet, sometimes our loved ones just need a little extra help to remain comfortable at home. That's where Always Best Care can help....we are dedicated to exceeding expectations....always
They say that your golden years are the best years of your life. For most older Canadians, that's how it should be - a time to relax, reflect, and live life in a familiar place. After all, senior citizens in our country 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 The Morey Homestead gets harder without someone by their side. However, as seniors grow older, sometimes they cannot live independently without someone by their side to provide care. Unfortunately, many older Canadians 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 Birchwood, ON is a safe, effective way to give your loved ones the care they need when they need it the most.
Home Care Services
Service AreasSince 1996, Always Best Care has provided non-medical in-home care for seniors to help them maintain a healthy lifestyle as they get older. We are proud to have helped more than 25,000 seniors maintain higher levels of dignity and respect. We focus on providing seniors with the highest level of in-home care available so that they may live happily and independently.
Unlike some senior care companies, we genuinely want to be included in our clients' lives. We believe that personalized care is always the better option over a "one size fits all" approach. To make sure our senior clients receive the best care possible, we pair them with compassionate caregivers who understand their unique needs. That way, they may provide care accordingly without compromising their wellbeing.
The Always Best Care difference lies in life's little moments - where compassionate care and trustworthy experience come together to help seniors live a fruitful, healthy life. Whether you are an aging adult that can't quite keep up with life's daily tasks or the child of a senior who needs regular in-home services, Always Best Care is here to help.
“I had the pleasure of meeting Steve Kelly at Always Best Care and was truly”
“5 Stars. Always Best Care offered kind and professional support when my 90 year old”
“Excellent service! My mother experienced rapid dementia decline and we needed short term support for”
“I want to say how amazing our experience with Always Best Care has been. The”
“Steve Kelly from Always Best Care is truly exceptional. I’ve seen firsthand how much knowledge”
“I met Steve Kelly and sought advice in regards to my elderly parents home care”
“Steve Kelly is committed and dedicated to providing the best care possible for your loved”
“Always Best Care provides compassionate, reliable support that truly puts families at ease. Their PSWs”
“Always best care is a great option for in-home care for your elderly ones. Their”
“I would not hesitate to recommend the team at Always Best Care! You can tell”
“I recently met with Steve from Always Best Care and was genuinely impressed by his”
“I/We have had such a great experience working with Coree and her team. Very flexible”
“Always Best Care certainly lives up to their name and more !!! My first call”
“Always Best Care has been a tremendous support for our family. We needed home care”
“Coree and Steve did an amazing job adapting to our changing needs for scheduling help”
“We reached out to Always Best Care when we were in crisis with our mother”
“Thank you to the kind and caring team at Always Best Care. You were there”
“Right from the beginning I knew Always Best Care was the right choice to help”
“My mom had a fall and broke both wrists. After being released from respite care”
“We have used Always Best Care for almost a year and the service is wonderful.”
“Amazing service! We have been using this agency for over 2 years and very satisfied”
“Capable and Caring. Recommended.”
“We have utilized the services of Always Best Care on 2 separate occasions for post”
“I had a full knee replacement and was on my own, always best care was”
“So happy! Right from the beginning it was right. Coree our Coordinator was so reassuring. Tara”
“Thank you for hosting the Dementia Live session. I am so grateful for this opportunity”
“Thank you Always Best Care… we’ve had them in taking care of my dad for”
“I chose Always Best Care supports for my mother with dementia because they were flexible”
“We chose Always Best Care after an extensive search for a PSW for my father”
“Working with Always Best Care, Oakville was an amazing experience. They sponsored my 2-piece music”
“Always Best Care provided me with with very nice and practical care givers following my”
“I have terrific care for my father from Always Best Care The Personal Support Workers ensure”
“My husband had a stroke/brain bleed almost 3 yrs ago & we have been exposed”
“Always Best Care Senior Services helps my loved one out with bathing and meal preparation”
“ABC helps my loved one out with bathing and meal preparation mainly, which is very”
“I am grateful that Always Best Care is here to help me. I am not”
“I am grateful that Always Best Care is here to help me. I am not”
“ABC has really helped ease my concerns and worries when caring for my loved one”
“Amazing organization. Very pleased at every aspect. I’m over thousand miles away from my mother”
“We had a fabulous experience with Always Best Care Senior Services. We needed unexpected immediate”
“I am a personal support worker at ABC, I’ve been working at ABC for about”
“I have been caring for my 85 year old Mom in my home for just”
“Thank you the team at Always Best Care! They were instrumental in helping us to navigate”
“In a difficult pandemic and job hiring environment they showed up every day on time”
“I had to engage Always Best Care for assistance with my parents. From my first”
“I had to engage Always Best Care for assistance with my parents. From my first”
“Thank you to Always Best Care Senior Services for help with my grandmother after her”
“I had a wonderful experience with the team at Always Best Care! I was very”
“Always Best Care provided excellent service for my elderly mother after she had a fall.”
“I had a wonderful experience with the team at Always Best Care! I was very”
“I had the pleasure of meeting Steve Kelly at Always Best Care and was truly impressed by his compassion and professionalism. He has a deep understanding of the challenges families face—especially those caring for parents or grandparents with dementia—and provides thoughtful, supportive guidance every step of the way. With services like PSW support, in-home care, and personalized care planning, Steve and his team ensure families have the help they need when it matters most. I would confidently recommend ABC to anyone seeking trusted, caring support for their loved ones.”
“5 Stars. Always Best Care offered kind and professional support when my 90 year old Mom needed it most. Absolutely grateful. Thank You again.”
“Excellent service! My mother experienced rapid dementia decline and we needed short term support for her safety (wandering) while making new living arrangements. Steve impressed me immediately with how quickly he responded and was able to provide support. He really took the time to understand and address my concerns, asking great questions to get to know my mother so the team could provide the best care in ways that were comfortable for her. PSW’s Jennifer and Rose were both great fits for my mom, really connecting with her. Each morning I received an update on how the night went - these gave me assurance, and also helped me understand how to better communicate with my mother, so we can spending time together again instead of me always focusing on taking care of things.”
“I want to say how amazing our experience with Always Best Care has been. The PSWs that took care of my mother were wonderful with her: caring, patient and treated her with compassion and dignity. The service from the company was flexible, organized, accomodating and their focus was on our needs, not what worked for them. If we ever needed this service again, I would not hesitate to call them. Thank you to all of you for taking care of her.”
“Steve Kelly from Always Best Care is truly exceptional. I’ve seen firsthand how much knowledge he brings to families navigating dementia and Alzheimer’s — including my own, with a mother-in-law who’s affected. His breadth of knowledge, the depth of understanding, the tools he offers, and the support he provides are incredible. What stands out most is Steve himself: compassionate, friendly, and genuinely invested in helping people feel supported during an overwhelming time. If you ever need guidance with senior care or dementia-related challenges, Steve is someone you can trust completely. Jacquie Manore”
“I met Steve Kelly and sought advice in regards to my elderly parents home care needs due to their age and mobility issues. He kindly guided me through the right path and gave me valuable tips and advice. Steve and his team have the passion to help people especially seniors to maintain a safe and independent lifestyle . They are committed to provide the best care that suits individuals specific needs with the most consistent and loving care. I would definitely recommend Steve and his team if you or any loved ones need in home or hospital to home care , “personal support worker” services.”
“Steve Kelly is committed and dedicated to providing the best care possible for your loved ones. If you need home care after surgery and illness, or need help with aging loved ones, Always Best Care is there to help!”
“Always Best Care provides compassionate, reliable support that truly puts families at ease. Their PSWs are attentive, respectful, and genuinely invested in the well-being of those they care for. Under the leadership of Steve Kelly who is a compassionate, well-organized and trustworthy leader who truly has the families’ best interest at heart. He has cultivated an accessible and thoughtful solution for families in need and I would never hesitate to recommend them.”
“Always best care is a great option for in-home care for your elderly ones. Their team is compassionate and experienced. They offered different flexible options like full 24 hr care to a once a week visit when needed and they prepare a unique plan!. Talk to Steve and he will find the right option for your loved ones.”
“I would not hesitate to recommend the team at Always Best Care! You can tell just from your first discussions with them that they put client needs first and are able to offer whatever level of support or care is necessary. I wasn’t aware until recently that they can even provide companionship and light housework support to prolong the time a loved one can stay independent in their own home. For any care needs, have a discussion with Always Best Care.”
“I recently met with Steve from Always Best Care and was genuinely impressed by his deep understanding of the gaps in the current healthcare system for Canadian seniors. Going through a recent issue with my mother really opened my eyes to these shortcomings. Steve is incredibly knowledgeable and tuned in to the specific needs of seniors who wish to remain living independently in their own homes. He is dedicated to ensuring they receive the necessary support and care. Highly recommended!”
“I/We have had such a great experience working with Coree and her team. Very flexible and communication has been excellent”
“Always Best Care certainly lives up to their name and more !!! My first call to Coree/Steve confirmed that .I was looking for overnight caregiver for my 84 year old sister following her knee replacement surgery. Coree came to her home for initial assessment confirmed my decision. She was thorough, caring, friendly and understanding of Susan's needs. Following surgery Susan had to stay in hospital for a few days They were extremely flexible on moving the caregivers starting date forward .Marianne was amazing !!! Many thanks to all three of you for making this transition a very stress free and comfortable one!!! Cindy”
“Always Best Care has been a tremendous support for our family. We needed home care for a loved one living with dementia, and their team exceeded our expectations. From our first meeting, they were professional, kind, and truly attentive to our needs. The caregiver assigned was reliable, patient, and treated our loved one with compassion and respect.”
“Coree and Steve did an amazing job adapting to our changing needs for scheduling help for our mother. All of the PSW staff that helped take care of my mother - who was recovering from surgery and also has some dementia - were excellent. I highly recommend Always Best Care and would definitely use them again when we need private PSW support.”
“We reached out to Always Best Care when we were in crisis with our mother and needed urgent in home care. They were immediately able to help us. Coree understands how difficult it is to deal with a parent who has dementia and that as a family we struggle to navigate what is the "right" thing to do. Always Best Care have been supportive and understanding as we have had to pivot and make changes in our home care plan. Their home care providers are compassionate and kind. I highly recommend their services.”
“Thank you to the kind and caring team at Always Best Care. You were there during a difficult transition for my dad. I felt comforted to know that he was in good hands.”
“Right from the beginning I knew Always Best Care was the right choice to help support my mother for post-surgery care for her hip-replacement. From my initial phone conversation followed by in-person consultation, Coree the Executive Director was outstanding. She was professional, supportive, attentive and reassuring, taking time to answer our questions. As my mom’s needs changed, Coree was easily accessible and flexible in accommodating scheduling requests. Not to mention she would call to check up on my mom to see how she was progressing.Thank you to Coree and the PSW team at Always Best Care for being reliable, empathetic and caring. We will definitely reach out again when needed.”
“My mom had a fall and broke both wrists. After being released from respite care Coree and her staff from ABC came highly recommended. Mom’s home care was amazing, the staff were so kind and attentive to her needs. When it was time to reduce the number of weekly visits she was accommodated immediately. I can’t thank them enough for their ongoing communication with us. It was also a very emotional time, from being totally independent to all of the sudden needing assistance. My mom said to me on several occasions ‘the PSWs treated me with dignity and kindness, they were like friends’. I would highly recommend their services. It gave our family peace of mind knowing mom was being so well looked after and we noticed how her spirits improved along with her recovery.”
“We have used Always Best Care for almost a year and the service is wonderful. Made my elderly mother feel so comfortable and enjoyed the company immensely. Thank you for being so caring!”
“Amazing service! We have been using this agency for over 2 years and very satisfied with the quality of service. The nurses are well trained, pleasant demeanor, professional and always punctual. They are also very flexible with cancellation requests last minute service requests and overall scheduling. Our most valued aspect of this service is having the same two nurses on a consistent basis, we have come to know them well and trust them in our home. We would recommend ABC without reservations to anyone looking for this type of service. Thank you to Steve, Coree and the rest of the team, you have made our life challenges a little easier to manage.”
“Capable and Caring. Recommended.”
“We have utilized the services of Always Best Care on 2 separate occasions for post operation, in-home support. We have nern most impressed on both occasions by the quality of the staff, responsiveness and flexibility of the executives of the company. The services provided allowed in home recovery vs in a nursing home or rehab facility. I recommend them”
“I had a full knee replacement and was on my own, always best care was amazing!! Their staff, coordinators and management are all empathetic, professional and flexible. Navine, Lynn and Jaszmine all went above and beyond everyday for me and a special shout out to Navine who was always superb!!! Great value outstanding service and Coree made me feel comfortable and confident everything would be ok… I cannot say enough good things about this company, they really came through for me in a tough time :)”
“So happy! Right from the beginning it was right. Coree our Coordinator was so reassuring. Tara our Scheduler was so accommodating and the PSWs were great! They were reliable and caring. I will be going to Always Best Care for all of our support needs.”
“Thank you for hosting the Dementia Live session. I am so grateful for this opportunity to understand what my loved one is going through and learn strategies to help them cope with dementia. It was nice to be in a room of people that understand, support and can relate to the up’s and down’s of coping with a loved one that has dementia.”
“Thank you Always Best Care… we’ve had them in taking care of my dad for over-night shifts and they’ve been prompt, professional, super pleasant and generally great to deal with. We will continue to use their services. Definitely recommend!”
“I chose Always Best Care supports for my mother with dementia because they were flexible and reasonable. My mom received high quality care. There were a couple times when due to surgery or hospitalization, I requested additional supports and they were arranged creatively, quickly and in an incredibly supportive manner. At the end of her life, she received loving palliative supports. Supports are person centred and person directed. Always Best Care is a modern, responsive care provider seeking to provide the best quality of life to people and their families. I feel blessed to have found their services. Thank you Always Best Care Oakville! Kerri Jean”
“We chose Always Best Care after an extensive search for a PSW for my father in the Oakville/Burlington area, and couldn't be more pleased with the service. Both Steve and Lynn are consummate professionals who obviously take pride in their work. Highly recommended.”
“Working with Always Best Care, Oakville was an amazing experience. They sponsored my 2-piece music duo in several retirement homes and the joy they brought the residents was incredible. It was also wonderful watching Coree and her staff spoil the seniors while we performed. This company truly cares about their clients and you can see it in everything they do.”
“Always Best Care provided me with with very nice and practical care givers following my recent knee surgery. Will totally use them again when the other knee or something else is done.”
“I have terrific care for my father from Always Best Care The Personal Support Workers ensure my dad remembers to take his medication and that he has lots of food to eat and enogh to drink. The managers are good at letting me know when they have to make a staffing change for the day. I have piece of mind and I know everything is going to be alright when I am away. Thanks to Always Best Care!”
“My husband had a stroke/brain bleed almost 3 yrs ago & we have been exposed to many agencies This particular agency had gone above & beyond to ensure ALL needs were met by finding just the right PSW for my hubby & our home environment. The personal touch provided, made both my husband & I feel that our struggles are real & the staff genuinely care. ALWAYS BEST CARE is just that... the best care. A special thank you to Coree!!”
“Always Best Care Senior Services helps my loved one out with bathing and meal preparation mainly, which is very important to have provided for her on a consistent daily basis. The office staff is always very consistent in getting back to me with emails and providing a helping hand. They have been extremely diligent in making sure we have the best care we can get so I’d certainly recommend them.”
“ABC helps my loved one out with bathing and meal preparation mainly, which is very important to have provided for her on a consistent daily basis. The office staff is always very consistent in getting back to me with emails and providing a helping hand. They have been extremely diligent in making sure we have the best care we can get so I’d certainly recommend them.”
“I am grateful that Always Best Care is here to help me. I am not sure what they could do better. They come and help me with transportation for appointments and errands. I like that they are courteous, pleasant and everything I was used to.”
“I am grateful that Always Best Care is here to help me. I am not sure what they could do better. They come and help me with transportation for appointments and errands. I like that they are courteous, pleasant and everything I was used to.”
“ABC has really helped ease my concerns and worries when caring for my loved one especially when im travelling. From the first connection with Steve to assigning PSWs to communicating with Coree my experience has been and continues to be amazing. Coree is exceptional in her work and always responds to our requests even on short notice. The PSW we have is also exceptional and goes above and beyond her duties. I could not have asked for more devoted help than from this company. Highly recommended. The are upfront, honest, trustworthy, and punctual. Great company.”
“Amazing organization. Very pleased at every aspect. I’m over thousand miles away from my mother and I feel blessed to have this group be on call for my mother when needed. Kindest Regards, Oliver”
“We had a fabulous experience with Always Best Care Senior Services. We needed unexpected immediate care for my Mom and Corrie was able to get everything arranged for us right away. She was very understanding, explained everything and willing to do anything she could to help. The caregivers that helped my Mom were wonderful and made her feel very comfortable. Would highly recommend them.”
“I am a personal support worker at ABC, I’ve been working at ABC for about 10 months now. One thing I can recommend about working at ABC is that they are always available and quick to support (you).”
“I have been caring for my 85 year old Mom in my home for just over a year. My Mom lives with Alzheimer’s and requires assistance with most all aspects of her life. ABC was recommended to me by the LIHN and thank goodness they made the recommendation! Compared to the experiences I’ve had with other agencies they have been AMAZING! The customer service I’ve received is exceptional - they are responsive and agile working hard to ensure that I haven’t been without support throughout the pandemic. That, I think is a miracle! The caregivers are great - friendly, kind, and have taken very good care of my Mom. I can’t recommend ABC enough!”
“Thank you the team at Always Best Care! They were instrumental in helping us to navigate what options we had in supporting my Dad as he recovers from a broken hip. Having them kindly answer questions helped to alleviate what is a stressful and difficult time for families. We were set-up with much needed PSW support on extremely short notice...and over the holidays too! The team has been very professional and caring in the services they have provided including adhering to safety protocols in the current environment. Additionally, they have been flexible in managing scheduling changes and have provided prompt updates as needed. Our family has been very pleased with Always Best Care Senior Services and appreciative of the peace of mind and support their services offer.”
“In a difficult pandemic and job hiring environment they showed up every day on time to care for my mother-in-law as she recovered from knee replacement surgery. Everyone was warm, attentive, professional and caring. They earn and deserve your business .”
“I had to engage Always Best Care for assistance with my parents. From my first call with Steve to the PSW they assigned to help out, I have been very impressed with their service. I wont hesitate to reccommend them to anyone.”
“I had to engage Always Best Care for assistance with my parents. From my first call with Steve to the PSW they assigned to help out, I have been very impressed with their service. I wont hesitate to reccommend them to anyone.”
“Thank you to Always Best Care Senior Services for help with my grandmother after her surgery. My first panicked phone call was answered with care and calm. Their consultation and admission process was simple but thorough and they paired my grandma with a great team of caregivers. We are quite happy with their services and look forward to continuing on! Thank you Coree for bringing the heart into homecare!”
“I had a wonderful experience with the team at Always Best Care! I was very worried about doing this, but the team was so professional and so friendly they made me feel so much better. They took amazing care of my grandparents and made them feel just as comfortable and supported as I did. They truly were the best and I highly recommend.”
“Always Best Care provided excellent service for my elderly mother after she had a fall. The staff was informative, caring, empathetic, and flexible. Angela was a wonderful caregiver, very compassionate and professional. My mother was not keen on a caregiver coming but was put at ease and was very appreciative of her care. I highly recommend this agency for anyone's home care needs.”
“I had a wonderful experience with the team at Always Best Care! I was very worried about doing this, but the team was so professional and so friendly they made me feel so much better. They took amazing care of my grandparents and made them feel just as comfortable and supported as I did. They truly were the best and I highly recommend.”
Home is where the heart is. While that saying can sound a tad cliche, it is especially true for many seniors living in Canada. When given a choice, older adults most often prefer to grow older at home. An AARP study found that three out of four adults over the age of 50 want to stay in their homes and communities as they age.
When you begin to think about why, it makes sense. Home offers a sense of security, comfort, and familiarity.
The truth is, as we age, we begin to rely on others for help. When a family is too busy or lives too far away to fulfill this role, in-home senior care is often the best solution. Home care services allow seniors to enjoy personal independence while also receiving trustworthy assistance from a trained caregiver.
At Always Best Care, we offer a comprehensive range of home care services to help seniors stay healthy while they get the help they need to remain independent. As your senior loved one gets older, giving them the gift of senior care is one of the best ways to show your love, even if you live far away.
To give our senior clients the best care possible, we offer a full spectrum of in-home care services:
If your senior loved one has specific care needs, our personal care services are a great choice to consider. Personal care includes the standard caregiving duties associated with companion care and includes help with tasks such as dressing and grooming. Personal care can also help individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes.
Common personal care services include assistance with:
Sometimes, seniors need helpful reminders to maintain a high quality of life at home. If you or your senior has trouble with everyday tasks like cooking, our home helper services will be very beneficial.
Common home helper care services include assistance with:
Using this kind of care is a fantastic way to make life easier for you or your senior loved one. At Always Best Care, our talented caregivers often fill the role of a companion for seniors. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite activities and hobbies while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly. That way, older adults can enjoy their favorite local activities, such as visiting Walleye Park with friends while also receiving the care they need daily or weekly.
Common companionship services include:
According to AARP, more than 53 million adults living in the U.S. provide care to someone over 50 years old. Unfortunately, these caregivers experience stress, exhaustion, and even depression. Our respite care services help family caregivers address urgent obligations, spend time with their children, and enjoy other activities. Perhaps more importantly, respite care gives family members time to recharge and regroup. Taking personal time to de-stress helps reduce the risks of caregiver burnout. So, if you've always wanted to eat at the local Mary's Bluegill Bar Grill or visit Washington St Birchwood St, don't feel bad. Doing so is great for both you and your loved one.
When it comes to non-medical home care, our goal is to become a valuable part of your senior's daily routine. That way, we may help give them the highest quality of life possible. We know that staying at home is important for your loved one, and we are here to help make sure that is possible.
If you have been on the fence about non-medical home care, there has never been a better time than now to give your senior the care, assistance, and companionship they deserve.
Always Best Care in-home services are for older adults who prefer to stay at home but need ongoing care that friends and family cannot provide. In-home care is a safe, effective way for seniors to age gracefully in a familiar place and live independent, non-institutionalized lives. The benefits of non-medical home care are numerous. Here are just a few reasons to consider senior care services from Always Best Care:
According to AARP, 9 out of 10 seniors prefer to age in place within the comfort of their own home. With in-home care, seniors have a way to stay at home, receive the care they need, and maintain a sense of independence, improving overall wellness.
If you or a member of your family have assumed the role of caregiver for your senior loved one, you know how stressful the job can be. Between caregiver burnout and constant worry, being a family caregiver is hard. In-home care relieves your burden and gives you peace of mind knowing that your older family member is in expert hands.
Unlike nursing homes, where the staff and residents rotate frequently, seniors can foster new friendships and build bonds with their caregiver. Seniors who socialize on a regular basis are often happier, which fosters positivity and leads to increased wellbeing.
No two seniors need the same kind of in-home care assistance. That is why each of our Care Plans is tailored to meet our client's individual needs. We offer plans that cover everything from light housekeeping to more involved duties like transportation to doctor's appointments. Our Care Coordinators will work closely with you to develop a personalized plan to ensure your senior's needs are exceeded.
Always Best Care offers a full array of care options for patients at all levels of health. With our trusted elderly care services, your loved one will receive the level of care necessary for them to enjoy the highest possible quality of life.
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While it's true that some seniors have complicated medical needs that prevent them from staying at home, aging in place is often the best arrangement for seniors and their families. With a trusted caregiver, seniors have the opportunity to live with a sense of dignity and do so as they see fit - something that is unavailable to many older people today.
In-home care makes it possible for millions of seniors to age in place every year. Rather than moving to a strange nursing home, seniors have the chance to stay at home where they feel the happiest and most comfortable.
How much does a senior's home truly mean to them?
Studies on aging have 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 Birchwood, ON, 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 CBC, aging in place can be more affordable than living in a retirement home, which can cost thousands of dollars a month, with no extra care included.
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 ABC's home care services, seniors and their families have a greater level of control over their care plans. In-home care gives seniors the chance to form a bond with a trusted caregiver and also receive unmatched care that is catered to their needs. In long-term care facilities, seniors and their loved ones have much less control over their care plan and have less of a say in who provides their care.
In-home care is a valuable resource that empowers seniors to age in place on their own terms. However, a big concern for many families and their loved ones is how much in-home care costs. If you're worried that in-home care is too expensive, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that it is one of the most affordable senior care arrangements available.
Typically, hiring an Always Best Care in-home caregiver for a few hours a week is more affordable than sending your loved one to a long-term care facility. This is true even for seniors with more complex care needs.
At Always Best Care, we will work closely with you and your family to develop a Care Plan that not only meets your care needs, but your budget requirements, too. Once we discover the level of care that you or your senior need, we develop an in-home care plan that you can afford.
In addition to our flexible care options, families should also consider the following resources to help offset potential home care costs:
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.
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 Birchwood, ON understand how important it is to listen and communicate with their seniors. A seemingly small interaction, like a short hug goodbye, can make a major difference in a senior's day. Instead of battling against feelings of isolation, seniors begin to look forward to seeing their caregiver each week.
Understanding the nuances of senior care is just one of the reasons why our care providers are so great at their job.
Unlike some senior care companies, our caregivers must undergo extensive training before they work for Always Best Care. In addition, our caregivers receive ongoing training throughout the year. This training ensures that their standard of care matches up to the high standards we've come to expect. During this training, they will brush up on their communication skills, safety awareness, and symptom spotting. That way, your loved one receives the highest level of non-medical home care from day one.
While it's true that many seniors prefer to age at home, sometimes in-home care isn't the best fit. For those seniors and their families, choosing an assisted living facility makes more sense. Unfortunately, finding the optimal care facility is easier said than done in today's day and age. That's when Always Best Care's assisted living referral services begin to make a lot of sense.
Assisted living is a form of housing intended for seniors who require varying degrees of medical and personal attention. Accommodations may include single rooms, apartments, or shared living arrangements. Assisted living communities are typically designed to resemble a home-like environment and are physically constructed to encourage the independence of residents.
At assisted living communities, seniors receive help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They may also benefit from coordination of services with outside healthcare providers, and monitoring of resident activities to ensure their health, safety, and well-being. Caregivers who work at assisted living communities can also provide medication administration and personal care services for older adults.
Other services offered within assisted living communities can include some or all of the following:
At Always Best Care, our representatives can match your senior's emotional, physical, and financial needs with viable assisted living communities nearby. Results are based on comparative data, so you can select the best choice for you or your loved one.
Always Best Care works closely with local senior living communities to gain valuable knowledge that we then use to help seniors and their loved ones make informed decisions. This information can include basic care and rent, resident availability, and services provided. Because Always Best Care is compensated by these communities, we provide senior living referral services at no extra cost to you.
Some of the most popular assisted living communities to consider in our area include the following:
For many seniors, moving into a senior living community revolves around how and when they want to make a transition to more involved care. Some seniors are more proactive about transitioning to independent living. Others choose to remain home until their care needs or other requirements are satisfied. Remember - our staff is here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about assisted living communities and how we can find a facility that exceeds your expectations.
The first step in getting quality in-home care starts with a personal consultation with an experienced ABC Care Coordinator. This initial consultation is crucial for our team to learn more about you or your elderly loved one to discover the level of care required. Topics of this consultation typically include:
A discussion of your needs and how our trained caregivers can offer assistance in the most effective way
A draft of your Care Plan, which includes highly detailed notes and a framework for the care that you or your senior will receive
Discuss payment options and help coordinate billing with your insurance provider
Our caregivers are trained to spot changes that clients exhibit, like mental and physical decline. As your trusted senior care company, we will constantly assess and update your Care Plan to meet any new emotional, intellectual, physical, and emotional needs.
If you have never considered in-home care before, we understand that you and your family may have concerns about your Care Plan and its Care Coordinator. To help give you peace of mind, know that every team member and caregiver must undergo comprehensive training before being assigned to a Care Plan.
At the end of the day, we only hire the best of the best at Always Best Care. Whether you need home care in Birchwood, ON 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.
Residents in the Birchwood area of Lincoln are set to benefit from a major new initiative, with the community selected to receive an investment of £20 million over the next ten years.Residents in the Birchwood area of Lincoln are set to benefit from a major new initiative, with the community selected to receive an investment of £20 million over the next ten years through the government’s Pride in Place programme.The initiative will support improvements that matter most to local people, helping to strengthen co...
Residents in the Birchwood area of Lincoln are set to benefit from a major new initiative, with the community selected to receive an investment of £20 million over the next ten years.
Residents in the Birchwood area of Lincoln are set to benefit from a major new initiative, with the community selected to receive an investment of £20 million over the next ten years through the government’s Pride in Place programme.
The initiative will support improvements that matter most to local people, helping to strengthen communities, enhance neighbourhood spaces and create new opportunities for residents.
Pride in Place is being championed locally by Hamish Falconer, MP for Lincoln, who will work closely with City of Lincoln Council, which will act as the accountable body responsible for managing the funding.
Birchwood has been chosen as Lincoln’s focus for the programme, recognising both the strengths of the local community and the opportunities presented by wider growth in the area, including the nearby Charterholme development.
To help guide the programme locally, a Neighbourhood Board will be created to bring together community representatives, partners and local organisations to help shape how the funding is used over the next decade.
Recruitment has now begun for an independent Chair and Deputy Chair of the Board. The roles will help bring local people together to share ideas and ensure the programme reflects the priorities of the Birchwood community.
The Chair will act as a voice for the neighbourhood and help lead the board in an open and collaborative way, supporting residents to shape projects that improve their area.
The Deputy Chair will work alongside the Chair to support the board and help drive community involvement in the programme.
Applications for the roles are now open, and people with a strong connection to Birchwood who are passionate about improving their community are encouraged to come forward.
Hamish Falconer, MP for Lincoln, said:
"This £20 million investment is a major opportunity for Birchwood and for the people who live there. Pride in Place is about putting real power into the hands of local communities so residents can help shape the future of their neighbourhood.
“I’m really pleased that I secured this much needed funding for Birchwood, and I am looking forward to working with the City Council, community groups and local residents to ensure this funding delivers lasting improvements for the area”
“This funding provides an important opportunity to work alongside residents and partners to support the Birchwood community and ensure the area continues to thrive. Establishing the Neighbourhood Board will help make sure local voices are at the heart of how the programme develops.”
Pride in Place is a government programme designed to put power into the hands of local communities in neighbourhoods across the country. The long-term funding supports local people to help shape their area by focusing on building stronger communities, creating thriving places and empowering residents to take an active role in the future of their neighbourhood.
People interested in applying for the Chair or Deputy Chair roles, or finding out more about the programme, can contact the council at [email protected].
Selwyn Birchwood Announces ‘Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues’ National TourVisionary guitarist, lap steel master, vocalist and cinematic songwriter Selwyn Birchwood announced dates for the first leg of his 2026 Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues Tour. Birchwood –whom Rolling Stone calls “a remarkable, contemporary bluesman…a powerhouse young guitarist and soulful vocalist” — will kick off the tour on March 20 in his home state of F...
Selwyn Birchwood Announces ‘Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues’ National Tour
Visionary guitarist, lap steel master, vocalist and cinematic songwriter Selwyn Birchwood announced dates for the first leg of his 2026 Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues Tour. Birchwood –whom Rolling Stone calls “a remarkable, contemporary bluesman…a powerhouse young guitarist and soulful vocalist” — will kick off the tour on March 20 in his home state of Florida before playing dates on the East Coast and into the Midwest.
The new, powerful, self-produced Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues, Birchwood’s fifth Alligator Records album, will be released on Friday, March 27. The trail-blazing music will be available on CD, translucent yellow vinyl LP, and at all digital service providers.
Live, Birchwood is a true force of nature. A favorite among blues fans and jam band fans alike, his ability to win over an audience—any audience—is proven night after night. With his warm, magnetic personality, Birchwood is as down-to-earth as his music is electrifyingly jaw-dropping. With his band feeding off his energy, the 6’3” musician roams the stage barefoot, ripping out memorable guitar licks with ease, his soulful, rocks-and-gravel vocals impossible to ignore. When he sits down to play his signature model Caladesi lap steel, he magically lifts the crowd into a sweat-soaked state of blissful elation. Mega-star Joe Bonamassa raves, “Selwyn Birchwood has become one of my favorite discoveries. He puts on a great show.”
Watch “The Church Of Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues”
Says Birchwood, “You would be hard-pressed to find an album or a band that sounds exactly like mine, and that has been and always will be the goal. I pride myself in writing songs so that when you hear a band like us, you hear a band that sounds just like…US!”
Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues features 10 wildly imaginative, laser-focused, vibrant original songs, produced by Birchwood and recorded in Florida. From the wide-open honesty of Damaged Goods to the up-to-the-minute observations of All Hail The Algorithm and Talking Heads, Birchwood and his band play with honest, emotional intensity. On Labour Of Love he looks at the pains and joys of parenting, while The Struggle Is Real serves as an anthem for our times. Birchwood’s tough, slide guitar opus, What I’ve Been Accused Of, the slow burning, romantic Soulmate and the blazing Should’ve Never Gotten Out Of Bed, all show Birchwood as one of contemporary blues’ most prolific, significant and innovative artists.
Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues is Birchwood’s own fully realized artistic statement, and the first of his Alligator albums that he has produced by himself. “Producing allowed me to really take the wheel and steer the music to the exact destinations that I wanted to go. It allowed me to present these songs with the full, three-dimensional sound that I have wanted all along. This album is the full realization of the sound I have been cultivating. It tiptoes the tightrope between gritty gutbucket blues and contemporary grooves to create a soundscape that honors the roots but allows listeners to experience the music from a modern vantage point. Sharing songs with this much honesty allows us all to connect to music on a higher level…to feel a little less isolated and a little more ‘seen’ in what can be a hard life at times.”
According to Guitar World, “Blues star Selwyn Birchwood is the real deal. He puts his own fresh spin on the blues, taking the tradition and making it into something new.”
2026 ELECTRIC SWAMP FUNKIN’ BLUES TOUR
Mar 20 Arts Garage Delray Beach, FL
Mar 25 Middle C Jazz Charlotte, NC
Mar 26, 2026 The Blue Note Grill Durham, NC
Mar 27 Hub City Vinyl Hagerstown, MD
Mar 28 Lizzie Rose Music Room Tuckerton, NJ
Mar 29 The Collective Encore Columbia, MD
Apr 01 Groove New York, NY
Apr 02 Chan’s Woonsocket, RI
Apr 03 Bull Run Restaurant Shirley, MA
Apr 04 Spire Center for Performing Arts Plymouth, MA
Apr 05 The Music Room West Yarmouth, MA
Apr 08 The 443 Social Club & Lounge Syracuse, NY
Apr 09 Samuel’s Grande Manor Williamsville, NY
Apr 10 Music Box Supper Club Cleveland, OH
Apr 11 Natalie’s Grandview Columbus, OH
Apr 13 SPACE Evanston, IL
Apr 15 The Zoo Bar Lincoln, NE
Apr 16 The Waiting Room Lounge Omaha, NE
Apr 17 Vangarde Arts Sioux City, IA
Apr 23 Paradise Bar & Grill Pensacola Beach, FL
Apr 24 Paradise Bar & Grill Pensacola Beach, FL
Apr 25 Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival Bessemer, AL at DeBardeleben Park
May 01 Blue Jay Listening Room Jacksonville Beach, FL
May 02 The Alley Sanford, FL
May 03 Earl’s Hideaway Lounge Sebastian, FL
Jun 19 Creekside Blues & Jazz Festival Gahanna, OH on the Blues Stage at the Creekside District
Jul 10 Heidi’s Jazz Club Cocoa Beach, FL
Jul 11 Arts Bonita Bonita Springs, FL
Jul 17 Fogartyville Saratoga, FL
Jul 18, 2026 Fogartyville Sarasota, FL
Jul 25 Cafe Eleven St. Augustine Beach, FL
Aug 01 Bluesmore Festival Cedar Rapids, IA
BELLINGHAM — Plans for a new multimodal roundabout at Meridian Street and Birchwood Avenue are moving ahead as the City of Bellingham advances a broader transportation improvement project in the area.The proposed roundabout would replace the existing traffic signal at Meridian and Birchwood as part of an effort to address congestion at two closely spaced intersections that connect the waterfront, the Port of Bellingham, and Interstate 5. Traffic analysis completed by the city confirmed the roundabout will includ...
BELLINGHAM — Plans for a new multimodal roundabout at Meridian Street and Birchwood Avenue are moving ahead as the City of Bellingham advances a broader transportation improvement project in the area.
The proposed roundabout would replace the existing traffic signal at Meridian and Birchwood as part of an effort to address congestion at two closely spaced intersections that connect the waterfront, the Port of Bellingham, and Interstate 5. Traffic analysis completed by the city confirmed the roundabout will include a single circulating lane, a right-turn lane on the southbound Meridian approach, and a right-turn pocket on the westbound Birchwood approach.
City officials say the redesign is intended to improve traffic flow for both passenger vehicles and freight while also increasing safety and efficiency for pedestrians, cyclists, and transit riders. The project also includes realigning Squalicum Way to better match Birchwood Avenue before reaching Meridian Street and reconstructing Birchwood to create a standard T-intersection at the realigned parkway.
Beyond vehicle circulation, the project includes significant multimodal upgrades. Plans call for filling in missing sidewalk segments along Birchwood, extending bike lane improvements north on Meridian to the roundabout, and upgrading existing bicycle facilities within the project footprint. WTA bus stops on Birchwood and Meridian will also be improved. The Bay to Baker Trail is slated to extend through the project area, including a new crossing at Meridian on the south leg of the roundabout.
Environmental and infrastructure work is also part of the scope. An unused portion of Squalicum Way will be removed to allow restoration of Tributary W, improving fish habitat. Aging water mains and sewer pipes will be replaced, a major gas line will be relocated to accommodate habitat restoration, and updated stormwater systems such as permeable pavement and bioretention features will be installed. Public art funding through the city’s 1% for the Arts program will support artwork within the roundabout and potentially other locations nearby.
If we are understanding the map correctly, right now Birchwood Avenue and Squalicum Way hit Meridian as two separate intersections that sit very close together, which is part of why traffic can get backed up there. Under the new plan, Squalicum Way would be shifted so it lines up with Birchwood before reaching Meridian. That means traffic from both roads would merge into one single entrance before entering the roundabout. Instead of two awkward intersections next to each other, there would be one cleaner, more organized approach designed to make it easier for drivers to move through the area.
The project has reached the 60 percent design stage, with the 90 percent milestone expected in the third quarter of 2026 as the city works through permitting and right-of-way acquisition. Once construction begins, drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians should expect detours, lane closures, and changes to normal travel patterns. A traffic control and detour plan is currently being developed.
Community members are invited to learn more and share input at an open house scheduled for Wednesday, March 4, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Parkview Elementary School. Those unable to attend in person can review project materials and submit feedback through the city’s online engagement page. City officials say public input will help refine the final design before construction moves forward.
Fernando Gonzalez is the editor-in-chief of Bellingham Metro News.
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