Franchisee Rick Demshki Brings His Passion for In-Home Care to Right at Home in California’s South Bay Region

After 25 years in construction management, Rick Demshki found himself at a crossroads. He took time off to travel and reflect before committing to a new path, ultimately landing on franchising in the in-home care sector. Personal experience played a significant role in his decision — having cared for his mother for several years, he understood firsthand the challenges families face when navigating home care. When evaluating his options, Demshki was drawn to Right at Home*’s strong support system and the opportunity to build a meaningful business in his own South Bay community in Los Angeles.  

“There are a lot of companies in this industry, but Right at Home stood out,” Demshki said. “They are one of the bigger players and they had an available territory where I live. I was born and raised in this area, so I saw a real opportunity for growth.”  

For Demshki, this business is about more than financial success — it's personal. He plans to focus on building a trusted, community-based operation that makes a real impact. With a structured system in place and the backing of a proven brand, he is confident in the process.

1851 Franchise recently sat down with Demshki to discuss his franchising journey with Right at Home, his passion for providing in-home care services and his plans for the future. Here’s what he had to say:

1851 Franchise: Frame your personal story for us. What did you do before franchising, and how did you decide franchising made sense for you?

Rick Demshki: I worked in construction management for 25 years. When that ended, I had the opportunity to pivot. I took a year off, traveled and then dedicated the next year to figuring out my next step. About a year ago, I began researching franchises, exploring different industries and business models. I ultimately narrowed my choices to a few in the in-home care sector, and Right at Home had the best presentation and support system.

My decision was also influenced by personal experience. My mom was in a rehab prior to COVID, and when COVID began, I moved in with my mother to be there full time and take care of her. I had been her caregiver for over four years until she passed a couple of years ago. That experience made me realize how valuable home care services are. Working in corporate construction was never truly fulfilling, and the company I worked for didn't support my journey with my mom. When that job ended, I knew I wanted to do something meaningful. Right at Home was the best fit for me.

1851: What was your perception of franchising prior to becoming a franchisee, and what do you want people to know about franchising now that you are in it?

Demshki: I initially thought franchising was like buying a business in a box — you pay the fee and everything is set up for you. But it's not that simple. While there is a structured system and support, it still requires a personal touch. You have to put in the effort to build and grow the business.

Some franchises — like fast food brands — may be more turnkey, but Right at Home is different. They provide tremendous support, but it’s still my business. They always emphasize that it's my thing, and I have to drive it forward.

1851: What made you pick this brand? What excites you most about this company?

Demshki: There are a lot of companies in this industry, but Right at Home stood out. They are one of the bigger players and they had an available territory where I live. I was born and raised in this area, so I saw a real opportunity for growth.

When I spoke with other franchisees during my validation process, I found that everyone had positive things to say about Right at Home's support system. I looked for both A-players and potential C-players, but I didn’t find anyone unhappy with their decision. That level of franchisee satisfaction was a big factor for me.

1851: What do you hope to achieve with your business? What are your plans for growth?

Demshki: My goal isn’t to acquire additional territories. My territory is large enough, and I live in the community I’ll be serving. I want to build a strong, reputable business that everyone in my area knows and trusts.

I see this as a 10- to 15-year endeavor. Eventually, I may sell the business, but I’m in it for the long haul. This isn’t just an investment — it’s something I’m passionate about.

1851: What is the one thing about your story you want us to know?

Demshki: The most important part of my story is that this business is personal to me. I was my mother’s caregiver, and I also cared for my niece when she was battling cancer. She passed at 22, and her family moved in with me toward the end to be close to the rest of our family.

Going through those experiences, I learned firsthand how difficult it is to navigate the home care system. You don’t plan to learn these things, but when the time comes, you’re suddenly thrown into it. My hope is that I can use what I’ve learned to help others through this challenging process.

1851: What advice do you have for other people thinking about becoming franchise owners?

Demshki: Take the time to figure out what you really want to do. Don’t just look at a franchise’s financials and think, "This makes a lot of money." If you can’t see yourself doing the work, it’s not the right fit.

If you choose a franchise just for the financial upside, you’ll probably do well for a year or so, but, eventually, you’ll burn out. You don’t want to buy yourself a job — you want to buy into something you’re passionate about. There will be hard days, even before you open. I haven’t even launched yet, and I’ve already had moments where I wonder what I’ve gotten myself into. But I know it will all come together. Right at Home has a great system, and I’m confident in the process.

ABOUT RIGHT AT HOME:

Founded in 1995, Right at Home offers in-home care to seniors and adults with disabilities who want to live independently. Most Right at Home offices are independently owned and operated and directly employ and supervise all caregiving staff. Each caregiver is thoroughly screened, trained, and bonded/insured before entering a client’s home. Right at Home’s global office is based in Omaha, Nebraska, with more than 700 franchise locations in the U.S. and four other countries. For more information about Right at Home, visit https://www.rightathome.net/ or read the Right at Home blog at https://www.rightathome.net/blog/.