Possessing more than 20 years of professional experience in occupational therapy, Neelima Gaikwad has dedicated her career to enhancing the quality of care for seniors. As the owner and administrator of A Place At Home, Schaumburg, in Illinois since 2022, Ms. Gaikwad has overseen all operational aspects of her business, including human resources, payroll, recruiting, marketing, and other key responsibilities. She is known and respected for her innovative approach to caregiving that emphasizes continuous hands-on training and has significantly contributed to the success and growth of the franchise.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to home care services, Ms. Gaikwad received the Best of Home Care Provider of Choice and Best of Home Care Employer of Choice awards from Home Care Pulse in 2024. These accolades underscore her devotion to providing exceptional care and creating a supportive work environment for caregivers. For Ms. Gaikwad, her profession is more than a career – it is her calling. The most special moments that fuel her passion are when she hears stories of how A Place At Home, Schaumburg, caregivers have positively impacted their clients’ lives. For example, she recalls an instance in which one caregiver assisted a client in attending their grandchild’s wedding. The entire family was overjoyed because they could focus on other responsibilities, knowing their loved one was well cared for and could participate in such a milestone life event.
Ms. Gaikwad’s earlier roles include working as a teaching assistant at A Place At Home, Schaumburg, and as a lead occupational therapist at a skilled nursing facility for more than a decade. She also was an occupational therapist at HCR ManorCare, ProMedica Health System Inc., where she honed her skills in providing specialized care to children and older individuals. Moreover, she spent five years as a pediatric occupational therapist working with children facing disabilities, sensory dysfunctions, and autism spectrum disorders.
With an impressive educational background playing a major role in her professional accomplishments, Ms. Gaikwad earned an executive master’s degree in health administration from the University of Illinois Chicago, equipping her with the foundation and confidence to operate her own practice. She also holds a Master of Science in occupational therapy from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a bachelor’s degree in occupational therapy earned in India, her home country. Adding credentials to her academics, Ms. Gaikwad continued her learning and development by securing certifications as an occupational therapist from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy and as a lymphedema therapist and a licensed occupational therapist in the state of Illinois.
Anchored in community service as well as her profession, Ms. Gaikwad is active in the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and volunteers with organizations, including the Hoffman Estates Chamber of Commerce, Feed My Starving Children, and the Greater Chicago Food Depository. These tangible connections have allowed her to give back, enriched her personal life, and strengthened her community ties. Outside of work and serving her community, Ms. Gaikwad enjoys spending time with her dogs, adventure, and outdoor activities such as camping, trekking, walking, and hiking. She also has a passion for traveling, cooking, and attending dance classes.
In the future, Ms. Gaikwad envisions expanding her business by establishing additional locations and maintaining high standards of care. Her goal is to ultimately position her company as a leader in the home care industry while continuing to innovate and set new standards for excellence. For Ms. Gaikwad, helping seniors to fulfill their wishes and stay active in their families and communities is deeply rewarding. It’s the knowledge that her team acts as the eyes, hands, and ears for those who may be unable to do so themselves that gives her a profound sense of pride and happiness. Further, she aims to deepen her involvement in community work, balancing professional success with meaningful contributions to society.