Rakhma is a mission-driven, non-profit provider of assisted living catering specifically to individuals living with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other forms of memory loss. This organization was established out of a deeply recognized community need, bringing forward a compassionate approach to elder care that diverges from the traditional, institutional model. The unique foundation of Rakhma’s care philosophy is rooted in the creation of a residential social-model of care—a model developed to better address the needs of older adults with cognitive decline. In contrast to larger facilities, Rakhma’s approach revolves around intimate, homelike environments where a smaller number of residents allows for higher staff-to-resident ratios and more personalized attention.
The story of Rakhma’s beginnings is intimately tied to its mission and methods. Its founder, Shirley Shaw, worked as a home health aide and saw firsthand the isolation and loneliness many elders faced. She noticed that while some elders required assistance, their needs were not so great as to warrant living in an expensive or impersonal facility. In 1984, this observation led to the opening of Rakhma’s first home, marking the beginning of a new and meaningful way to serve individuals with memory loss. The success of this initial effort resulted in the establishment of two additional homes—all built on the principles of community, familiarity, and purpose. Shirley Shaw’s efforts and insights are detailed in her book, “The Rakhma Story,” which documents the model and its effectiveness in improving the lives of people living with memory impairment.
The daily life at Rakhma is intentionally designed to promote both dignity and a sense of belonging. Residents are encouraged to participate in everyday activities such as watering plants, peeling potatoes, or folding towels. These simple but purposeful tasks help foster a sense of accomplishment and wellbeing. The calm and stability of the household setting, coupled with consistent staffing, serve to minimize the anxiety and behaviors that often accompany dementia. This enables residents to experience greater security and comfort, while also strengthening their connections with others.
Fundamentally, Rakhma’s mission centers on three guiding pillars that shape every aspect of care. The first is Person Centered care, which emphasizes promoting choice and dignity, adapting to the unique needs of each individual, and fostering a culture of respect and connection. Care is not limited to the residents alone—it extends holistically to include families and broader community networks. The second pillar is Culturally Responsive care. Rakhma is deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and aims to honor every individual’s lived experience and perspectives, while working to increase access to supportive services for those who have been marginalized. Lastly, the organization remains steadfastly focused on Quality of Life. This involves continuous education and outreach, valuing feedback from all stakeholders as an opportunity for improvement, and prioritizing the safety and enrichment of both staff and residents.
Through the years, Rakhma has remained a leading voice for the social care model in Minnesota, helping to inspire and shape the creation of hundreds of similar residential homes for individuals with memory loss. The commitment to advancing equitable access to quality services, while championing the dignity and welfare of each resident, underscores Rakhma’s enduring role as a compassionate provider and a true community resource for those impacted by memory loss.