Memory care is one of the most rewarding and impactful fields in senior living—but it also requires patience, compassion, and preparation. At Kensington Place Redwood City, our experts have supported hundreds of caregivers on their journey. Here are their top tips to help you succeed from day one.
Understand the Role
Working in memory care involves helping residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s maintain comfort, dignity, and joy. You may assist with:
- Daily living tasks (bathing, dressing, meals)
- Safety and mobility support
- Emotional reassurance and social engagement
Start by learning the stages of memory loss and how communication techniques change at each stage.
Get Familiar with Best Practices
We recommend becoming familiar with:
- Teepa Snow’s Positive Approach to Care® (PAC)
- Non-verbal communication techniques
- De-escalation skills and redirection strategies
These approaches help you build trust and reduce stress for residents.
Volunteer
If you haven’t worked in a care setting, seek out volunteer opportunities. Kensington offers:
- Opportunities to assist with activities and meals
- Mentorship from seasoned care partners
Even a few hours of volunteering can boost your confidence and help you decide if this path is right for you.
Build the Right Mindset
Our experts say the best caregivers:
- Stay calm under pressure
- See the person behind the diagnosis
- Focus on strengths, not losses
- Lead with empathy every day
It’s not about perfection—it’s about presence.
Prepare Logistically
Consider how you’ll manage the demands of caregiving:
- Are you comfortable working weekends or evenings?
- Can you lift and assist with mobility safely?
- Do you have reliable transportation to our Redwood City community?
Certification Pathways
While no certification is required for entry-level roles, many caregivers go on to become:
- Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA)
- Medication Technicians
- Licensed Vocational Nurses (LVN)
Kensington Place Redwood City offers tuition support and coaching for those ready to grow.