Ridgewood Senior Living sits in Bennington, Nebraska, as part of Ridgewood Retirement Community, and is run by Heritage Communities. The community has independent living, assisted living, memory care for Alzheimer's and dementia, and also provides respite and home care services. There's a cheerful vibe throughout, and residents often share laughs and form friendships while joining in on over 65 activities every week, which range from spiritual and educational programs to clubs, classes, group outings, and even a lively ice cream tradition that uses 12 gallons a week. The grounds include indoor and outdoor spaces like a clubhouse patio, a community lawn with walking paths, and sunlit rooms. The apartments have full kitchens or kitchenettes, washers and dryers, cable TV, high-speed internet, and individual heat and air controls. Safety features include smoke detectors, fire alarms, and emergency pull cords in bathrooms. Some apartments feature private patios, large windows, walk-in and linen closets, and are easy to get around, even for people using wheelchairs. Residents benefit from garage and resident parking, along with transportation that runs errands and makes medical trips, sometimes traveling over 1,200 miles a month. Three meals are prepared fresh by a chef each day, with a focus on nutrition and variety. People living here can bring small pets with them.
Dedicated staff provide 24/7 care, including help with dressing, bathing, grooming, medication reminders, and mobility, allowing people to remain as independent as possible. Individualized care plans get put together after staff take the time to understand each person's health, life, and interests. Memory care areas are secure and monitored, with routines to limit confusion, encourage connection, and prevent wandering. The Snapshots™ program supports those with mild cognitive impairment, and group and solo activities work to keep minds active. There's a sunroom for gardening, a theater room, common gathering spaces, and a gallery. Devotional and spiritual services are offered both onsite and offsite. Beautician services, recreational activities, hospice care, and upkeep-free living add to the list of amenities. Ridgewood supports aging in place, meaning the care changes as the needs of residents change over time. Meals, utilities, maintenance, housekeeping, and even cable TV are included. They've received honors like Best of Senior Living and have established a reputation for caring service and a solid mix of privacy, socializing, and independence. Relationships, compassion, respect, and fun form the backbone of daily life here.