78 years have passed since the Holocaust, yet its survivors still bear the weight of its harrowing legacy. According to the Central Bureau of Statistics in Israel, there were 147,199 Holocaust survivors in 2022, a number gradually dwindling. Another study by The Claims Conference estimated the survivor count in the United States to have dropped to 50,000 in the same year.
The majority of Holocaust survivors, now over 80 years old, grapple with complex physical, mental, and emotional needs. Enduring unimaginable trauma and loss during one of humanity’s darkest periods, survivors continue to battle the enduring effects, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, and various physical ailments. At Bethel Homecare Services, we recognize their resilience and provide specialized care to honor their journey and ensure their comfort and dignity.
Holocaust survivors, most of whom are women, faced untold challenges during the Holocaust, emerging as symbols of extraordinary courage amidst adversity. Our commitment is to provide compassionate care and support to these remarkable individuals, understanding the delicate nature of their experiences and the triggers that evoke painful memories.
Our program for Holocaust survivors is designed to offer holistic care, aiming to help them lead safer, healthier, and more independent lives in the comfort of their homes. Our caregivers undergo comprehensive training, including understanding the origins of the Holocaust, cultural competence, and sensitivity to trauma-related issues.
In our caregiving approach, we emphasize several key areas of support tailored to the unique needs of survivors:
Emotional Support
- Providing compassionate companionship and active listening to address emotional scars.
- Encouraging engagement in activities that promote mental well-being and social interaction.
Memory Care
- Supporting the preservation and sharing of personal stories, memories, and cultural traditions.
- -Engaging in reminiscence therapy to foster healing and emotional connection.
Trauma-Informed Care
- Equipping caregivers with techniques to recognize and respond to triggers and sensitivities.
- Creating a safe and empathetic environment that respects boundaries and autonomy.
- Assistance with Therapeutic Activities
- Engaging survivors in therapeutic activities like art and music therapy tailored to their needs.
- Encouraging participation in support groups and survivor organizations.
Collaboration with Healthcare Professionals
- Coordinating with healthcare professionals to address complex physical and mental health needs.
- Assisting with medical appointments, medication management, and care coordination.
Each survivor is unique, and our approach emphasizes open communication and collaboration with them, their families, and healthcare professionals to ensure respectful and responsive care. At Bethel Homecare Services, we stand as companions on their journey, offering solace, support, and unwavering compassion.