At The Kensington Bethesda, being a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is more than a job, it’s a calling.
Our CNAs form the heartbeat of daily life in our community, building trusted relationships with residents while delivering care with compassion.
Each shift is a chance to make a meaningful difference, and no two days are the same. Here’s what it looks like to walk in their shoes.
Mornings at The Kensington Bethesda: Gentle Starts and Daily Routines
The day begins early, but not rushed. CNAs start their shifts by reviewing personalized care plans for each resident, which reflect their routines, preferences, and evolving health needs.
Morning responsibilities include:
- Helping residents with dressing, grooming, and hygiene
- Offering words of encouragement and familiarity to ease the wake-up process
- Assisting with mobility and escorting residents to breakfast
- Reporting updates or concerns to nurses and care partners
For many residents living with dementia or mobility challenges, mornings set the emotional tone for the entire day.
CNAs bring warmth, patience, and continuity, especially important in a memory care setting.
Mealtimes and Mid-Morning Connection
After assisting residents to the dining areas, CNAs often help serve breakfast and ensure each individual’s dietary preferences and safety needs are met. This time isn’t just about nutrition, it’s also about community.
CNAs are often seated with residents, offering conversation and a comforting presence. They observe non-verbal cues and gently support those who may struggle with appetite, dexterity, or memory.
Between breakfast and lunch, team members help residents prepare for group programs like:
- Chair yoga or movement classes
- Life enrichment activities in Connections and Haven neighborhoods
- 1:1 engagement, such as music therapy or hand massages
The connections formed during these interactions often blossom into deep, trusting relationships that are the heart of our care philosophy.
The Kensington Bethesda’s Culture of Teamwork
The role of a CNA is never done alone. At The Kensington Bethesda, collaboration is built into every shift.
CNAs communicate with:
- Nurses and medication technicians for medical updates
- Life enrichment leaders to align physical care with social engagement
- Housekeeping and dining partners to ensure residents’ full comfort
We believe that every team member is a caregiver, and every caregiver is part of a trusted circle supporting the whole person.
Afternoons in the Neighborhoods: Companionship and Consistency
In the afternoon, CNAs continue providing care while also supporting a consistent rhythm that reduces confusion for memory care residents.
This often includes:
- Assisting with toileting, hydration, and repositioning for comfort
- Offering companionship during quiet times, such as reading or puzzles
- Escorting residents to programs in our Kensington Club, Connections, or Haven neighborhoods
- Supporting those who may experience sundowning or increased anxiety
Team members are trained to recognize emotional shifts and respond with empathy, not just tasks. Many CNAs find their most fulfilling moments in these quiet, personal interactions.
CNAs are trained in techniques that build trust, communication, and calm, especially with residents experiencing dementia.
Evening Care at The Kensington Bethesda: Winding Down with Dignity
As the day transitions to evening, CNAs help residents prepare for bed with the same thoughtfulness they began the day with. Evening routines include:
- Bathing or toileting assistance, respecting each resident’s routine
- Gentle conversation or prayer for residents who find comfort in it
- Making sure favorite blankets, lights, or photos are arranged just right
- Documenting any health or behavioral updates
Every detail matters, especially for residents experiencing cognitive decline. Small acts of consistency build a deep sense of safety and belonging.
CNA Voices: Why Our Team Members Stay
Many of our CNAs come for the job, but stay for the relationships.
They speak about:
- The joy of celebrating a resident’s birthday with their family
- The moment a resident with memory loss remembers their name
- The comfort of knowing they’re part of a team that always has their back
From laughter in the hallways to tears shared during difficult moments, The Kensington Bethesda is a place where CNAs can bring their full hearts, and be met with gratitude and growth.
Celebrating Milestones and Everyday Moments at The Kensington Bethesda
At The Kensington Bethesda, CNAs are not only caregivers, they’re memory-makers. From birthdays and holidays to everyday joys like singing a favorite song or sitting together during a quiet moment, team members play a vital role in making life feel rich and meaningful for residents.
Whether it’s decorating a suite with family photos, helping someone FaceTime with a grandchild, or sharing a laugh during a cooking demo, CNAs are there, bringing heart to every moment. These personal touches reflect the deep bonds formed between residents and the people who care for them each day.
Training, Support, and Growth Opportunities at The Kensington Bethesda
New CNAs are never thrown into the deep end.
Our training programs include:
- Hands-on mentorship with experienced team members
- Continued education on dementia care techniques
- Opportunities to grow into med tech, care coordinator, or leadership roles
- Daily huddles to discuss resident updates and team wellness
We believe in developing every team member’s potential. Many of our leadership team members began as CNAs themselves.
Why Choose The Kensington Bethesda for Your CNA Career?
If you’re considering a role as a CNA, The Kensington Bethesda offers more than just a paycheck. We offer purpose. Here, your work matters, and it’s recognized.
What sets us apart?
- 24/7 on-site clinical care support
- A family-like culture guided by Our Promise to love and care for our residents as we do our own
- Flexible scheduling and wellness benefits
- A community that celebrates you as much as our residents
Ready to Begin Your Journey?
Explore CNA opportunities at The Kensington Bethesda and discover a career where every day is filled with purpose, partnership, and love.