Nimesh and Bhakti Patel are no strangers to helping people heal. Nimesh, with over 24 years of experience in IT, particularly in the health care sector, and Bhakti, with more than 20 years working with oncology patients, are passionate about supporting others. When the opportunity to open a Griswold franchise arose, it felt like a natural next step. 

Set to open in the coming weeks, their Griswold location will offer compassionate care to seniors in the Durham-Chapel Hill, NC area and focus on treating clients like family. For the Patels, this franchise isn’t just a business; it’s a way to make a meaningful impact on seniors' lives.

1851 Franchise spoke with the Patels to learn more about their story, their journey to Griswold and their plans for the future. 

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

Nimesh Patel: With over 25 years of IT experience, including leadership roles in health care at Duke and UnitedHealth Group, I’ve honed my ability to align technology with business vision, transforming complex needs into innovative solutions that drive growth. Alongside my IT career, I’ve also spent 10 years as a multi-center owner of The UPS Store, gaining valuable business insights. My journey as a realtor and notary public further expanded my entrepreneurial skills, providing a diverse perspective on customer service and operations. Armed with a Master’s in Business Management and certifications in PMP and Pragmatic Marketing. Seeking new horizons, I ventured into non-medical care, drawn by Griswold’s commitment to compassionate service. Together with my sister-in-law Bhakti, I saw this as an opportunity not just to grow a business, but to make a meaningful impact on others' lives

Bhakti Patel: I’ve always worked in pharmacy, particularly with oncology patients, and my passion is helping people. When Nimesh approached me about starting this business, I thought it was perfect. I wanted to continue helping patients, but my job wasn’t allowing me to do that the way I wanted. Griswold aligned with my goals to help seniors in a meaningful way.

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?

Nimesh: Before becoming a franchisee in senior care, I already had experience with franchising in other industries, including The UPS Store,  and thought of it as a safer way to start a business with proven systems and brand support. Now, I understand that while franchising offers a great framework, success still depends on how much effort and initiative you put into making it work. It's not just following a plan — you need to actively grow and manage the business.

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

Nimesh: It’s not just about the numbers with Griswold; it’s about treating seniors like people. We did our homework and spoke with several Griswold owners, all of whom were supportive and ready to share their insights. The leadership team was equally impressive, which reassured us that we were making the right decision.

Bhakti: When we attended Discovery Day, it was such a welcoming experience. Hearing about Jean Griswold’s legacy and the company’s mission made us feel like we were making the right choice. Griswold provides the foundation and support we need to succeed, and everyone from the management team to individual franchisees was willing to help in any way possible.

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

Nimesh: Our aim is to provide compassionate, high-quality care that promotes the independence and well-being of seniors. My growth plans include expanding our services beyond Durham & Chapel Hill market to reach more communities, increasing caregiver training, and incorporating specialized programs such as dementia support and companionship to meet the evolving needs of our clients.

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

Nimesh: The one thing I’d want you to know is that even with years of franchising experience, my senior care business is more than just another venture — it's personal. Having moved and lived in the Chapel Hill area for over 24 years, with my daughter born at the UNC hospital and now attending UNC school here, we’re deeply invested in this community. This isn’t just business for us; it’s about giving back to the place we call home.

Bhakti: We’re proud to be one of the first in the Indian community to provide this kind of care for seniors in our area. In Indian culture, 90% of parents live with their children, which can be challenging. By offering this type of service, we’re hoping to help our community navigate those challenges.

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

Nimesh: My advice for anyone considering franchising, especially in healthcare, is complex, is to be prepared for hands-on involvement. While franchising offers a proven model and support, your success depends on your ability to take initiative, adapt to challenges, and fully immerse yourself in the business. Leverage the brand and systems, but also be ready to put in the effort to make the business your own. It's not just about following the rules—it's about making the franchise work for your local market.

Bhakti: Each state has different rules and regulations, which can be a big decision-maker. It’s important to understand these before moving forward.

For more information on franchising with Griswold, please visit: https://1851franchise.com/griswold.

ABOUT GRISWOLD

With 170 locations in 31 states, Griswold is one of the country’s top home care companies, providing professional, compassionate caregivers 24/7. Griswold’s “Live Assured” promise gives both clients and their loved ones peace of mind, so they can live without the weight of worry. Griswold helps adults maintain quality of life despite advanced age, onset of illness or post-surgery recovery through services, including companion care, home services, personal care and respite care. Founded by the late Jean Griswold in 1982, the company has maintained its founder’s profound sense of empathy for older and disabled adults and those living with chronic conditions. For more information, visit griswoldhomecare.com or call 215-402-0200.