Seth Rogen and his wife, Lauren Miller Rogen, have produced a poignant documentary, Taking Care, chronicling Miller Rogen’s late mother Adele’s battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The film offers an intimate portrayal of the couple’s caregiving journey and the profound impact of Alzheimer’s on families. Taking Care also highlights the work of their non-profit organization, Hilarity for Charity, dedicated to raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care and research.
The documentary, set to premiere on FUSE on January 13th and available for streaming on January 22nd, delves into the emotional and logistical challenges of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s. While the couple has previously spoken about using humor as a coping mechanism, Taking Care provides a raw and unflinching look at the realities of the disease.
According to the official synopsis, Taking Care explores themes of family resilience and the importance of taking action in the face of adversity. The film combines expert insights with deeply personal moments, emphasizing the collective effort needed to combat Alzheimer’s.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Seth Rogen, 42, underscored the therapeutic power of sharing personal stories. He believes that the film will resonate with those facing similar challenges, offering comfort and fostering a sense of community. By sharing their own experience, the Rogens hope to destigmatize the disease and encourage open conversations about Alzheimer’s caregiving.
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For Lauren Miller Rogen, 43, the experience of witnessing her mother’s decline was particularly challenging, having already seen her grandparents grapple with the same disease. She describes the journey as “brutal,” marked by feelings of anger and frustration. Therapy, she says, proved instrumental in navigating the emotional turmoil and finding ways to cope.
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Seth Rogen acknowledges the profound impact of the disease on both Adele and the entire family. Witnessing the toll it took on his wife led him to encourage her to seek therapy, recognizing his own limitations in providing the necessary support. He emphasizes the importance of acknowledging when professional help is needed and avoiding the pressure to “fix everything.”
The documentary also showcases the couple’s work with Hilarity for Charity, founded in 2012. The organization has become a vital resource for families affected by Alzheimer’s, providing support and funding for research. Miller Rogen highlights the inspiring community built through HFC, where individuals can connect with others facing similar struggles and find hope amidst the challenges.
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Through Taking Care, the Rogens aim to raise awareness about the multifaceted challenges of Alzheimer’s disease and inspire viewers to become advocates for those affected. They hope the film will foster greater understanding of the disease’s impact on families and encourage support for research and caregiving resources. Taking Care is a deeply personal and powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
