Cleveland Jewish News: Compassionate Alzheimer’s Care at Home
Shalom Plotkin, franchise owner, is proud that Right at Home helps families fulfill the sacred mitzvah of kibbud av va’em through compassionate Alzheimer’s care at home.
A diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can feel overwhelming for both the person receiving it and their family. Yet with the right care and support, people living with dementia can still experience a meaningful quality of life. Research shows that while most Alzheimer’s caregivers report stress, just as many describe their role as deeply rewarding and even life-changing.
If you are caring for someone with memory loss, you are not alone. "More than five million people in the U.S. are living with Alzheimer’s disease, and 16 million family members and friends are serving as unpaid caregivers," says Shalom Plotkin, owner of Right at Home Cleveland East.
In Jewish tradition, we are taught the mitzvah of kibbud av va’em – honoring one’s father and mother. For many families, caring for a parent with Alzheimer’s is not only an act of love, but also a sacred commandment.
Here are six ways to support your loved one and yourself:
1. Know you are valuable
Family caregivers provide billions of hours of unpaid care each year, valued at more than
$240 billion nationally. You may not always feel seen, but your role matters deeply to your loved one and community.
2. Learn, plan, and share openly
Denial is natural, but delaying care only makes things harder. Families who educate themselves and plan early while loved ones can still participate are better prepared for changes in health, finances, and daily needs. Sharing openly with family and friends also reduces stigma and helps others stay meaningfully connected.
3. Connect with other caregivers
Support groups and dementia-friendly programs create safe spaces for encouragement. Alzheimer’s cafes, arts programs, and caregiver circles remind families they are not alone and that sharing the journey lightens the load.
4. Adapt the home environment
Small changes such as better lighting, removing clutter, and adding safety features can make a familiar home safer and less confusing. Many loved ones do best in surroundings they know and cherish.
5. Care for yourself
Caregiving is rewarding but stressful. Chronic stress can harm your health. Make time for checkups, exercise, and friendships. Caring for yourself sustains your ability to provide loving care for others.
6. Consider professional home care
Right at Home specializes in dementia support. Our caregivers are trained to respond with patience and compassion, assisting with meals, bathing, and companionship. "Home care doesn’t replace the love of family; it strengthens it," Plotkin explains.
One Beachwood daughter recently shared how hiring Right at Home for just a few hours a day transformed her life: "I could finally take care of my own kids without constant worry. My father was safe, engaged and cared for, and I was able to simply be his daughter again." Stories like this remind us that no one has to walk this path alone.
"Remember," advises Plotkin, "the goal for receiving care at home is to maintain your quality of life. If you are helping a loved one or friend decide on care, give us a call at 216-752-2222 so we can discuss the best options for care. Right at Home has warm and caring trained professional caregivers ready to help you and your loved one."
Need help? Our care team provides personalized, in-home services to support safe, effective recovery. Call us 216-752-2222 to explore care options.
Right at Home Cleveland East proudly serves Beachwood, Solon, Mayfield, Shaker Heights, Cleveland Heights, University Heights, South Euclid, Warrensville, Lyndhurst, Chagrin Falls, Highland Heights, Orange, Gates Mills, Pepper Pike, Moreland Hills, and nearby areas. We’re here when you need us.
