At Kensington Place Redwood City, we deeply understand the challenges that come with caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia, as well as the support necessary for family caregivers.
That’s why we’re proud to collaborate annually with Hilarity for Charity, founded by Lauren Miller Rogen and Seth Rogen, to bring meaningful events to our community.
This year, we invite you to a special screening on January 30th from 5:30 – 7 pm PST of “Taking Care,” a documentary produced by their charity.
Taking Care is a documentary following the journey of acclaimed filmmakers Seth Rogen and Lauren Miller Rogen as they navigate the complexities and heartbreak of Lauren’s mother’s advancing Alzheimer’s disease.
Through humor, heart, and an unwavering commitment to change, the Taking Care documentary imparts a message of hope, resilience, and the profound impact individuals can have when they seek solutions to society’s greatest challenges. It serves as a powerful reminder that even the smallest actions, when driven by compassion and purpose, can inspire transformative change.
After the screening, join us for a panel discussion with experts and fellow caregivers who will offer insights, answer questions, and provide support. With this event, we hope to acknowledge and uplift family caregivers in their journey—you are not alone.
RSVP today to reserve your spot!
Our promise is to love and care for your family as we do our own.
How people become the family caregiver
Becoming a family caregiver often happens unexpectedly. Many step into this role following a loved one’s diagnosis, a sudden accident, or simply out of necessity when other options are limited.
It’s common for this responsibility to fall on just one family member—perhaps the one who lives nearest or has more flexibility in their schedule.
This can place an immense burden on that individual, transforming them overnight into a nurse, counselor, and caregiver, all while managing their own life.
The reality is that being a family caregiver is one of the most stressful roles anyone can undertake.
It’s a job few are prepared for, thrust upon them without choice, often isolating them as they manage care management with personal sacrifices.
At Kensington Place Redwood City, we understand the pressures and emotional toll this responsibility can take. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing support that helps ease the burden.
We’ll share tips and strategies to help you manage the stress of caregiving.
Recognizing signs of family caregiver burnout
Over time, the demands of caregiving can take a toll, even on the most compassionate and patient individuals.
Caregiver burnout doesn’t always arrive with a dramatic crisis. Sometimes, it appears as subtle signs:
- Feeling more tired than usual
- Having less patience
- Lack of joy or relief from activities that once provided them
You might find yourself more easily frustrated—perhaps feeling uneasy about how your life has shifted or quietly missing the freedom you used to have.
You may experience lingering guilt, wondering if you should be doing more or somehow doing it better.
These feelings are not failures— they are reminders that you’re giving a great deal of yourself.
Recognizing burnout’s early signs can help you take steps to restore balance before stress grows too overwhelming.
6 strategies for preserving family caregiver well-being
Putting your loved one’s needs first is natural, but your well-being matters just as much.
Caring for yourself is not an indulgence—it’s essential.
Consider these practical approaches as a caregiver to a family member.
1. Set realistic expectations
Acknowledge that you can’t control every outcome. Some days will go smoothly—but others may bring unexpected challenges.
Embrace what you can accomplish rather than focusing on what you can’t.
2. Break tasks into manageable steps
Instead of viewing caregiving as one giant responsibility, divide it into smaller pieces.
Handle one appointment, one meal, or one conversation at a time. This can make daily routines feel less daunting.
3. Explore short, meaningful breaks
Even a brief moment of calm—a quick walk outside, a few minutes of deep breathing, or listening to soothing music—can replenish your emotional reserves.
4. Accept help when offered
Say yes if someone volunteers to drop off a meal or stay with your loved one while you run errands.
Allowing others to lend a hand can lighten your load and remind you that you’re not alone.
5. Pursue hobbies or interests when possible
Make time, even if it’s limited, for something you enjoy—reading a chapter of a favorite book, nurturing a small garden, or practicing gentle stretches.
6. Keep a personal journal or use a caregiving app
Documenting moods, concerns, or changes in your loved one’s condition can help you gain perspective. It can also help you track what works well and might need adjusting.
What kind of support can be offered to the caregiver?
Family caregivers benefit greatly from connecting with others who understand their experiences.
Caregiver support comes in many forms, including:
- Local support groups and workshops: In-person groups organized by community centers, hospitals, or associations like the Alzheimer’s Association can offer a safe space to share stories and learn coping techniques.
- Online forums and helplines: When attending a group in person isn’t possible, online communities and telephone hotlines can provide immediate encouragement. You’ll find people who’ve faced similar challenges and discovered helpful strategies.
- Professional counseling: Speaking with a therapist or counselor familiar with family caregiving can guide you through complex emotions. This can help clarify feelings, reduce stress, and improve communication within your family.
- Home care services and respite care: Bringing in professional caregivers for a few hours or days can give you time to rest, tend to personal errands, or simply recharge.
- Kensington events: At Kensington Place Redwood City, we offer educational programs, workshops, and gatherings, connecting caregivers with expert advice, helpful resources, and community events. These sessions are designed to provide more than just information; they create a supportive network that understands what you’re going through.
Family caregiver support with Kensington Place Redwood City
At Kensington Place Redwood City, we do more than just care for your loved ones with dementia and Alzheimer’s; we partner with you to support them through every stage of their journey.
Our memory care communities are designed to provide personalized attention and care that adapts as your loved one’s needs change. We prioritize genuine connections, engaging activities, and a comforting environment to ensure everyone feels home.
Our team is trained to notice even the smallest changes in mood or behavior, helping us tailor our care to meet each resident’s individual needs.
Choosing Kensington Place Redwood City means joining a community that treats your loved one as a family, with a team as committed to their well-being as yours.
Contact our team today to learn more about our floor plans, availability, and pricing.