Dementia Prevention
for Homebound Seniors
HAVRUTA one-on-one sessions
are recommended for homebound seniors
facing physical, emotional and/or cognitive challenges.
Our personally tailored activities
address cognitive, emotional, social and spiritual needs.
The activities stimulate cognitive skills,
and reveal dormant interests,
with the aim of slowing down the loss of abilities
and helping in their conservation.
The sessions strengthen self-esteem,
and restore dignity and a sense of meaning in life.
They affect the older person's vitality and optimism,
and renew the will to face the challenges of life and old age.
HAVRUTA FOR ELDERS sessions are inspired by the Jewish studying model of "Havruta",
which combines one on one study and friendship.
Throughout the sessions,
meaningful activities and personal connection nourish one another.
The activity, beyond providing cognitive stimulation,
serves as a foundation for personal connection.
And the connection enables the Havruta to face, together,
the challenges presented by the activity
and by life.
Person Centered Care
for People With Dementia
'Havruta' offers sessions designed for people with dementia
[pre-clinical stage, mild cognitive impairment (MCI),
first, second and third stages of dementia]
Dementia affects five domains:
Cognitive, Functional, Psychiatric, Behavioral, Physical.
The resulting impairments cause people with dementia
to withdraw and avoid activities and social interaction.
Withdrawal and avoidance create
boredom, social isolation and stress,
leading to accelerated deterioration on all levels.
As of today there is no cure for dementia.
However, Person-centered care
can ease the suffering of people with dementia
and slow the progression of the disease.
'Havruta' personally tailored sessions incorporate:
Cognitive Stimulation
Meaningful activities which generate involvement, satisfaction, interest, self-worth, purpose and enjoyment.
Personal Connection
Building trust and creating a personal, safe, sincere, validating, supportive, enabling and motivating relationship.
Relaxation Techniques
Specialized techniques (including meditation, yoga, massage) to relieve stress, comfort and ease physical and emotional pain.
Guidance and Support
for Family and Caregivers
The blessing of longevity
often presents challenges to all involved.
Members of the "sandwich generation"
find themselves in the middle,
caught between the needs of children
(and grandchildren) on the one hand,
and the needs of their aging parents on the other
(not to mention commitments to
spouse, home, work and community).
Even when all three generations act with
understanding, concern and cooperation,
gaps may appear
between the will, and the ability,
to meet the needs of the older parent.
The daily care for a person with
physical, mental and\or cognitive impairment
can be very demanding.
Often the caregivers are completely immersed in
the physical, technical and bureaucratic needs.
'Havruta' sessions address emotional, intellectual,
spiritual and social needs of the older parent.
People who care for a family member with dementia
are often prone to neglecting their own needs.
They are at risk for adverse effects on their physical and mental health
(Caregiver Stress Syndrome).
HAVRUTA provides guidance and support sessions
for the family (and other caregivers).
These sessions assist all involved
in identifying and facing the challenges
presented by the onset of dementia.
For further information,
resume or recommendations:
Rachel Kleinberger
More than 15 years of experience in Dementia Care,
developing unique methods for connecting meaningfully with people challenged by cognitive impairment.
Developer of the KIRVA Inter-generational Education Program.
Yoga and meditation teacher.
Rahel has been a welcome addition to my parent’s lives.
She has been instrumental in educationally stimulating
and helping them adjust to their new life in Jerusalem,
always in a most kind, supportive and warm manner.
Each of my parents look forward to their sessions with her.
They enjoy the care, concern and interest she shows in them.
The topics and issues they discuss are things that they each find interesting and at times challenging,
whether it be Chumash, history or even current events.
I am most grateful to Rahel, as she has lessened my fears and concerns of my parent’s possible isolation due to their age and infirmity. I am convinced that Rahel’s relationship with both my parents, has been more therapeutic than any of their medications.
With much appreciation and respect I would STRONGLY recommend Rahel.
Malka, USA
I think that I found Rachel through special Divine Providence.
We had received a diagnosis of dementia, checked with Melabev to see if they offered anything, and couldn't find anything both intellectually stimulating and at a comfortable level for my husband.
After talking to Rachel on the phone, we decided to just jump into the water,
and invite her over.
BH she and my husband got along very well, and she offered to help him write his autobiography, something that is very important for him,
but which he could not do on his own at this stage in his life.
Through Rachel's work with my husband he has found a meaningful
and stimulating occupation, and he enjoys it very much.
She is very good company
and understands exactly what and where is hard or easy for him,
and concentrates on developing those cognitive acts that are challenging.
She is also always available to guide me and help me deal with challenging situations, and understand what cannot be changed. This has been a tremendous help. It is almost impossible to find someone with whom you can talk freely, and this is the most valuable help possible at times.
Bracha, The Old City
When a beloved one (elderly parent ) becomes in need of
intellectual stimulation, spiritual enlightenment, love and understanding
we were blessed to have found Rachel.
Once we heard of her techniques we were very excited to start working with her.
She has more understanding of how to connect to my mother,
than words can offer,
in terms of what she gives to help my mother of nearly 80,
connect and become stimulated spiritually
in such a gentle and caring way.
We have learnt that her method is thorough and deep, releasing emotions,
a feeling of safety and acceptance.
Rachel finds working with my mother’s talents be it music, art
or the desire to achieve spiritual growth
has brought out the best in her.
sometimes even just the new knowledge of how to relax
has put my mother in a great mood.
My mother looks forward to her weekly visit
more than anything on her busy schedule.
We highly recommend Rachel.
Michelle, Har-Nof
Since my 84 year old mother is homebound
I have been looking for ways to stimulate her mind
and help her to feel she still has something to contribute.
The Havruta for Elders sessions
have been just what we were looking for.
Rachel has patience, sensitivity,
the ability to to make a rapport with her "havruta".
The sessions are varied and tailor made for the elder's needs.
As a result we have seen dormant skills resurface.
These sessions are the highlight of my mother's week.
Highly recommended
Hanna, Kiryat Shmuel
Rahel Kleinberger has a truly magical gift
when it comes to elders.
Her presence alone is extremely calming and uplifting,
and as a skilled conversationalist,
she is able to draw forth her clients' histories, passions,
and love for life.
My 90 year old mother avidly looked forward to Rahel's visits, knowing that her intelligent, respectful yet curious companion
would help her remember her sense of dignity
and renew her outlook on life.
I highly recommend this remarkable "Havruta"
to the elders in your life.
She brings with her an unusual warmth, kindness
and depth of understanding.
Tirza, USA
We are simply amazed at how much progress Mother has made...
We call Rahel the miracle worker...
We ( I am speaking on behalf of several siblings)
have observed Rahel many times,
working with Mother and have noted with pleasure
her patience and her understanding
and also her total commitment to Mother’s well-being.
She is always investigating options
and thinking of new ways to improve the quality of Mother’s life.
I highly recommend Rahel to anyone
who is considering her working with an elderly relative.
Eva, USA
אין מילים שיכולות לתאר את מה שאמי חווה במפגשים.
כל פעם שאני שואלת איך היתה הפעילות איתך,
העיניים שלה זורחות...
הנושאים שאת מביאה למפגשים,
שמעלים בה מוטיבציה לשתף אותך בחוויותיה.
אני כבת לא זוכה, וממך למדתי המון על אמי.
אני נפעמת מחדש איך בזכותך, היא מתחילה לשיר ולספר על מאורעות מהבית. אמי אשה סגורה, אך מה שאת מצליחה לעשות
בדרך כ"כ נעימה שהיא משתפת איתך פעולה, מה שקשה לי כבת ,
וזה כל כך שומר על כבודה, שהיא יכולה ורוצה ליצור איתך קשר,
ובכך לשמר אשה שהיתה משכמה ומעלה.
רחל תודה ואני לא מוותרת עלייך,
מדי, מבשרת ציון
רחל היקרה, אני רוצה להודות לך בשמי ובשם כל המשפחה
על התקופה בה שימשת לאמא שלי חברה, מורה ובעיקר אוזן קשבת.
אין לי מילים לתאר את השימחה שבה אמא שלי ציפתה לבואך מדי שבוע
ועל התשוקה שבה היא למדה איתך את פרשת השבוע
וחשפה בפניך את אשר על ליבה.
אני בטוחה שכל אדם שיושב בחברתך ונהנה מחוכמתך ואהבת האדם שבך
יוצא נשכר.
תודה לך על הכל.
על התמיכה שנתת לנו על הדרך בהתמודדות שלנו עם מחלתו של אבי ומותו ומעל לכל על הכתף החמה שנתת לנו אחרי שאמא עזבה אותנו גם היא.
נזכור את הזמן שבילינו יחד תמיד עם אהבה גדולה.
גם אנחנו למדנו ממך על חמלה, הקשבה ומסירות.
תודה, תודה, תודה
עדנה, אבו תור
my mother is thrilled with the sessions.
she cannot stop talking about what she learned...
This is what I hoped for my mother -
that she would be enthusiastic,
and have intellectual stimulation
from someone who brings excitement and positivity with her.
Chana, Katamon
You were one of the few
who really had a strong relationship with mom
these last years…
You have had a very positive influence on her depression and anxiety…
I am so glad she had you...
I think about you often
and the amazing relationship
you created with my mom.
It was so important to her last years on this earth.
Debbie, USA
We are in complete awe
and wish we were even half as good as you
being able to do things with our mom.
Thank you thank you thank you.
Love you Rahel. Thank you from deep inside.
Debbie, USA
Can't believe it's been 5 years!!!
You have been such an integral part of my parents move to Israel
and made their adjustment so much easier.
I know that since my father died the tone had shifted
and we all appreciated knowing you were coming
not only to learn with my mother but also as an extra set of eyes
to assess the situation with her and with whomever was with her.
And to me, you've become a friend and I hope we'll keep in touch .
thank you for everything -
words can't begin to express my appreciation for
your insight and wisdom regarding many matters both large and small .
Thank you
Melinda, USA
רחל, תודה רבה על הכל.
אני פעמיים בשבוע נוסעת עם אבא
והוא תמיד מספר עד כמה מה שאתם עושים משמעותי עבורו
וכמה את טובה.
את בשבילו, ועבור כולנו, קרן אור באפלה ובמצב הלא פשוט.
תודה לעצות ולתמיכה.
בשם כל האחים
לאה, העיר העתיקה
רחל, אני רוצה להודות לך מעומק הלב
על סיפור החיים שכתבת עם אבא.
זו זכות גדולה בשבילנו
ולאבא זו היתה מתנה שלא תסולא בפז.
איפשר לאבא ולנו מבט קצת מלמעלה, וקצת מהסוף
על סיפור חיים שהוא אנחנו.
אין מילים להודות לך על המפעל הזה,
ועל המסירות וההכלה
של הקשיים והקונפליקטים והרגשות הטעונים שנתקלת בהם.
מאוד מעריכים את חוכמתך, החמלה והרצון לעזור.
ואכן עזרת מאוד - לאבא, לאמא, לכולנו.
היי ברוכה, ותזכי לעשות עוד הרבה טוב, בבריאות ובשמחה.
הדסה, שומרון
You really got to know and understand
the essence of my father
better than many others...
I so appreciate who you are
and what you do.
Melinda, USA
תודה רבה רבה על הכל.
הפגישות שלך עם אמא
נוסכות תוכן מאוד משמעותי בחייה.
נחמיה, הר נוף
Thank you for providing such a wonderful friendship to my family.
We so appreciate who you are and what you do...
words fail me, you are someone very special and we are blessed to have you in our lives.
Michal, Har Nof
אני כל כך שמחה שאת מצליחה לתקשר עם אמי,
זה מחזק אותי מחדש כל פעם מחדש.
אמי כל כך נהנית ממך.
אני מברכת על היום שהתחלת לעבוד איתה.
תודה על הכל.
מדי, מבשרת ציון
מאד שמחה לראות כמה בעלי מעריך אותך
ואת העבודה שאתם עושים.
יישר כחכם!
הלוואי שהייתה לו תעסוקה וחברה כזו בשאר ימות השבוע.
ברכה, העיר העתיקה
רחל היקרה, תודה רבה
על הטיפול המסור והחם באמא
על ההשקעה, על הרצינות
והאכפתיות שאת תמיד מקדישה.
והעיקר על נתינת הלב
והאהבה.
מעריכים מאוד,
שושנה וצאצאיה, בית וגן
It is my immense pleasure to highly recommend Rahel Kleinberger to your parents.
My parents made Aliyah a little more than four years ago
and shortly afterwards they were learning with Rahel,
on their each individual level.
The learning kept their minds sharp and working.
The care that Rahel provided contributed greatly
to the life and self esteem of my parents.
especially at a difficult stage of life.
To my father, who recently passed away, Rachel was a life line.
Rachel found ways to carefully build a relationship with my parents.
managed to create a close friendship and bond with them.
On certain issues, my parents were more comfortable
to speak with Rahel about than with me.
Rahel is always looking for activities that would improve their quality of life.
My father, who was wheelchair bound,
did not like to leave his apartment.
Rahel was able to convince him on nice days to go outside and learn with her,
sometimes at the zoo, botanical gardens or the park.
It was also important to me that Rahel noted changes and challenges in my parent’s situation
so that I had another set of eyes and partner
in advocating for the best possible care.
Rahel brings a wonderful mixture of pragmatic problem solving
and emotional generosity to her work.
In addition to her personal attention to my parents,
she was able to serve as a helpful resource for me.
I highly recommend her without reservation,
Mark, Hashmonaim
רחל יקרה, תודתנו העמוקה והערכתנו הרבה
לפועלך הברוך עם אבא שיחיה
והתמיכה הרבה באמא שתחיה
ובנו, כמשפחה.
נכנסת בעדינות וענווה
לדינמיקה ולהתמודדויות המשפחתיות
ותמיד בחוכמה ובאצילות,
יודעת את לתת לנו עצות
ולהשרות אופטימיות.
באהבה ה"ילדים" ובני ביתנו
משפחת ס', ירושלים והסביבה
אמי בת ה-76 במצב מתמשך של דיכאון וחרדה, שלא איפשרו לה לחיות לבד.
לפני מספר שנים, לאחר מספר אישפוזים, חיפשנו מעטפת איכותית שתאפשר לה לחיות בבית.
רחל תפרה ליווי מתאים,
ולאחר מספר חודשים אמא החלה לגור לבד.
מנסיוננו האישי אני מאד ממליץ לנסות
את הליווי המסור, האכפתי הכנה והמנוסה של רחל,
שמתבוננת מחדש בכל מקרה לעומקו,
ברגישות ובתשומת לב וראיית הפרטים הכי קטנים אבל המאד חשובים, באופן בלתי רגיל.
במקביל לליווי אימי, רחל מקפידה לשמור אותי מעודכן,
לשתף אותי במחשבותיה ורשמיה, לשמוע את דעותי על אלו
לקבלת ומתן תמונה מלאה ומועילה ככל הניתן,
וביחד לחשוב ולהחליט הלאה,
בסבלנות והשקעה יוצאות דופן שבהחלט ראויות לציון והוקרה.
דניאל, יפו
בעלי, שאיננו אדם פשוט, שנוטה לביקורתיות,
יצר אתך קשר מצויין כבר מההתחלה.
זכיתי לשמוע ממנו התפעלות מחכמתך,
.מהיכולת להוביל אותו בנבכי נשמתו ורגשותיו.
לא פעם הוא משתף אותי בהתפעלות לגבי ״תגליות״ על עצמו.
מכך שאת מצליחה לגרום לו להתחבר לעצמו,
ולהגדיר לעצמו מה הוא באמת רוצה.
פעמים רבות, ביום בו הוא נפגש אתך הערב שלנו הוא ערב של שיחה,
ערב שבו הוא מדבר על עצמו ועל תכניותיו.
יש בו משהו נמרץ יותר מאשר בשאר הימים.
מהצד שלי, כבת זוג, אני זוכה לחוות את הרוגע והשלווה שאת מקרינה.
וכן את חכמתך והידע שלך בשיחות אותן אנחנו מנהלות מדי פעם.
יש לך עצות, רעיונות, והמלצות שוות זהב לגבי ההתנהלות שלי, כבת זוג.
אני יודעת שיש לי אצלך אוזן קשבת במקרה הצורך.
שמחה שנפגשנו ושאת חלק מחיינו.
חנה, מבשרת ציון
How grateful I am
for all that you are bringing to my mother.
She adores you
and you are helping her in so many ways.
I am so happy you are in our lives
and my mother continues to rave about you.
She thinks you are so interesting, positive
and have a fresh approach.
My sister and I live so far away (in the US)
and we have been hoping
for someone like you to come into our mother's life
to lift her spirits
and keep her engaged intellectually.
Thank you so much for your wonderful care and attention!
Leah, USA
We are extremely happy with Rachel
\"Havruta for the elderly\"
who has been teaching and caring for my 80 year old mother following a stroke, this past year.
Her unique approach combining
learning Torah, massage, music, relaxation techniques
has borne wonderful results for my mother.
We highly recommend Rachel as a professional
and caring person.
Michal, Har Nof