The driving force of Melabev: Leah Abramowitz, influential Israeli changing eldercare

Leah Abramowitz, a pioneering figure in Israeli eldercare, has spent decades shaping the way the country cares for its aging population. After retiring from her work at Melabev in 2008, she continues to remain active in initiatives that support seniors and their families.

In 2008, on Jerusalem Day, Abramowitz was awarded the Yakir Yerushalayim (Worthy of Jerusalem), one of the citys highest honors, acknowledging her groundbreaking contributions to eldercare. Her most notable achievement was co-founding Melabev with Prof. Arnold Rosin in 1981. What started as a volunteer initiative for families seeking to care for dementia patients at home has grown into a major organization serving thousands.

By 2024, Melabev provided services to 10,400 individuals through day centers, in-home care programs, and specialized nursing support.

Abramowitz immigrated to Israel in 1957 and began her career supporting new immigrants and youth, as well as serving as Netivots first community organization worker. In 1972, she joined Jerusalems Shaare Zedek Medical Center, where she spent nearly 30 years as a social worker in the geriatric ward.

Born in Germany and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Abramowitz was active in Bnei Akiva during her youth. She holds a BA from Sir George Williams College in Montreal and an MSW from the Hebrew Universitys Paul Baerwald School of Social Work. She married Abe Abramowitz in 1959 and has lived with her family in Jerusalems Old City since 1973.

Known as a lifelong learner, Abramowitz studied under Prof. Nechama Leibowitz and published a book about her, Tales of Nehama, in 2003.

Life After Melabev

Since retiring, Abramowitz emphasizes keeping a structured, meaningful daily routine. She encourages retirees to pursue new skills, like learning a language or playing an instrument, and to remain engaged through volunteering and personal projects. Currently, she is documenting her life story through Yad Sarahs Life Stories Project, which helps seniors leave a written legacy for their families.

Despite a lighter schedule, Abramowitz continues to take on challenges. She remains involved with Shaare Zedek Memory Clinic, sits on Melabevs board, and organizes exhibitions, including Melabevs 40th anniversary celebration.

Community and Family Engagement

At Yad Sarah, Abramowitz coordinates support groups for families dealing with dementia, including a group for English-speaking men. Her writing continues to focus on Jewish heritage and personal experiences, with recent works addressing Holocaust history and the impact of the Israel-Hamas conflict on families.

Her passion for hospitality is reflected in her Shabbat traditions, where she draws inspiration from biblical practices and engages her family in preparing and hosting guests. Abramowitz also prioritizes lifelong learning, attending classes multiple times a week, both in person and online, and enjoys swimming regularly.

Family connections remain central, with annual trips, holiday celebrations, and weekly study sessions, honoring the memory of her late grandson, Ayal Meir Berkowitz.

Through decades of dedication, Leah Abramowitz continues to inspire through her leadership, family devotion, and unwavering commitment to eldercare.

Author: Natalie Monroe