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A Day in the Life of a CNA in Senior Living With The Kensington Sierra Madre

Working as a Certified Nursing Assistant at The Kensington Sierra Madre offers a blend of personal fulfillment, professional growth, higher level of staffing, and a supportive community environment. 

CNAs are the cornerstone of hands-on care, significantly impacting residents’ health, well-being, and happiness. 

Let’s delve into the daily life of a CNA, also known as a Care Partner, at The Kensington Sierra Madre, showcasing the benefits and rewarding experiences that define this vital role.

Discover how our dedicated professionals create a positive atmosphere and build meaningful connections with residents. Our promise to love and care for residents as we do our own families. Not only do we live out our promise for our residents, but we promise to love and care for our team members too!

Morning briefing: Setting the tone for the day 

Each day at The Kensington Sierra Madre starts with a morning briefing, during which CNAs receive updates on residents’ health statuses and any specific needs or changes. 

This collaborative session ensures that every care team member is well-informed and prepared to provide tailored, compassionate care throughout the day.

The briefing also includes an opportunity for CNAs to discuss any concerns or observations from previous shifts, fostering a proactive approach to resident care.

Continue the day with personalized care

CNAs continue their day by assisting residents with their morning routines, including:

  • Helping them get out of bed
  • Assisting with personal hygiene tasks
  • Ensuring they are dressed comfortably and appropriately 

These tasks are performed with great care and respect, emphasizing each resident’s dignity and preferences. 

CNAs also take the time to engage in friendly conversations, offering a warm and positive start to the residents’ day. They also develop meaningful relationships with residents’ families.

Engaging residents in meaningful activities

CNAs play a crucial role in residents’ social and emotional well-being by assisting and participating in various senior enrichment activities with the life enrichment team. 

For example, exercise classes, arts and crafts, and game nights keep residents engaged and active, contributing to their overall happiness and mental health. 

In addition to scheduled activities, CNAs create spontaneous moments of joy, such as taking residents for a walk in the garden, reading aloud from a favorite book, or sharing personal stories. 

Compassionate and hands-on care

A CNA’s primary responsibility is to provide compassionate, hands-on care, including: 

  • Monitoring vital signs
  • Assisting with daily activities 

The close relationships that CNAs build with residents enable them to offer personalized care that significantly enhances residents’ quality of life. This is an important chapter of a resident’s life and the bonds are especially meaningful.

Monitoring health and collaborative care

CNAs are often the first to notice subtle changes in residents’ health or behavior, allowing for timely interventions and adjustments to care plans. 

They collaborate closely with nurses and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive and continuous care.

Emotional support and companionship 

CNAs provide emotional support, often as a confidant and friend to the residents. They listen to their concerns, share their joys, and comfort them during difficult times. 

This emotional bond is crucial in helping residents feel valued and understood, which is fundamental to their well-being and happiness. 

Afternoon duties and resident interaction

As the day progresses, CNAs continue to provide essential care, including assisting with lunch, helping residents with mobility, and conducting wellness checks. 

Afternoons often involve more one-on-one interactions, allowing CNAs to engage in meaningful conversations and activities with residents.

CNAs tailor their approach to meet each resident’s unique needs and preferences during these interactions to foster trust and companionship. 

Impact on residents’ health, well-being, and happiness

Through attentive and compassionate care, CNAs help manage chronic conditions, prevent health complications, and provide emotional support. This presence ensures that residents feel valued, secure, and content.

Their role extends beyond physical health; CNAs provide emotional and psychological support, often forming strong bonds that contribute significantly to residents’ happiness.

Evening routine: Ending the day with care

In the evening, CNAs assist residents in preparing for bed, ensuring they are comfortable and ready for a restful night. 

This routine is performed with the same level of attention and care as the morning, providing a peaceful end to the day and setting the stage for a fresh start the next morning.

Evening tasks could include:

  • Helping residents change into nightwear
  • Brushing their teeth
  • Assisting with other personal hygiene tasks
  • Addressing any resident concerns or anxieties
  • Offering reassurance and support to foster a sense of security

CNA benefits at The Kensington Sierra Madre

The Kensington Sierra Madre provides a supportive and rewarding environment for its CNAs.

Visit the employee lounge: A haven for relaxation 

To balance the demanding nature of caregiving, the community offers an employee lounge equipped with comfortable seating, refreshments, and healthy snacks. 

This dedicated space allows CNAs to relax, recharge, and socialize with colleagues, fostering a sense of community and well-being.

Complimentary meals and uniforms 

The Kensington Sierra Madre offers CNAs complimentary meals and uniforms, a benefit that underscores the community’s commitment to the well-being of its team. 

Having uniforms provided eliminates financial burdens and ensures a professional appearance for confident performance.

Monthly town hall meetings and paid training 

The Kensington Sierra Madre emphasizes continuous professional development and team engagement. 

CNAs participate in monthly town hall meetings where they can share ideas and feedback, fostering an open and inclusive environment. 

In addition to these forums for dialogue, CNAs benefit from paid training sessions that keep them up-to-date with the latest caregiving techniques and best practices. 

Employee referral program 

The Kensington Sierra Madre also values employee loyalty and recognizes the importance of a strong team. 

The employee referral program incentivizes CNAs to hire qualified candidates, strengthening the workforce with like-minded individuals who share the community’s commitment to compassionate care. Monetary rewards are offered for referring new team members or residents. 

Join our compassionate team at The Kensington Sierra Madre

If you’re passionate about making a difference in the lives of others and are looking for a rewarding career in senior care, consider joining the Kensington Sierra Madre team. 

As a CNA, you will enhance our residents’ health, well-being, and happiness. 

The Kensington Sierra Madre is the ideal place to grow personally and professionally, offering benefits such as: 

  • Complimentary meals
  • Uniforms
  • A supportive work environment
  • Continuous professional development
  • A strong sense of community
  • Ability to make an impact on our senior residents

Contact The Kensington Sierra Madre for more information about our senior living services and available positions. 

Join our dedicated team, where your compassion and skills will be truly valued. Apply for a CNA/Care Partner position today.