Business Buzz
By Rich Baehrle
Atlantic County’s newest senior living facility, Ridgewood Senior Living, recently opened its doors at 705 East Moss Mill Road in Galloway Township, directly across from the historic Smithville Inn. I had the opportunity to tour this state-of-the-art, 90-bed facility, which officially opened on Nov. 13, 2024.
From the moment I stepped into the naturally lit lobby, it was clear that Ridgewood Senior Living prioritizes both comfort and community. Residents gathered in the common areas, socializing and enjoying their time together. While the facility’s attention to detail and architecture were impressive, what stood out most was the warm greeting I received from Grace, the front desk host. It became evident that what makes a senior living home truly special isn’t just its physical features—it’s the people.
A personalized experience
I was welcomed by Charles Dixon, Executive Director of Ridgewood Senior Living, who proudly highlighted the facility’s unique features. One of the standout details is how the interior walls reflect the historic architecture of Smithville, adding a sense of tradition and charm.
A highlight of my tour was meeting Gary Giberson, Ridgewood’s first resident and former mayor of Port Republic. Giberson, a member of the League of Municipalities Hall of Fame, graciously invited me to his room to showcase his impressive collection of hand-carved ducks. He also shared stories about his family’s deep-rooted history in the surrounding area.
Amenities designed for comfort and connection
During our walkthrough, we visited Ridgewood’s custom-designed spaces, including a relaxing evening beverage lounge, where residents gathered before dinner. The outdoor courtyard and upper deck stood out as a key feature, with a heated seating area designed for year-round comfort.
The facility boasts a variety of amenities, including:
A meditation room for relaxation
A custom theater for entertainment
A professional salon for grooming services
A therapy area offering physical, occupational, and speech therapy
A fitness center to promote health and wellness
Dixon emphasized that Ridgewood was designed to foster social interaction, with eight gathering areas strategically placed throughout the building. He also credited the facility’s success to his dedicated team, including Wellness Director Kelly Kenny, and the support of the surrounding community.
Part of a Growing Senior Living Network Ridgewood Senior Living is owned by Viva Senior Living, a Norwood, New Jersey-based company led by CEO Michael Jacobs. Since its founding just six years ago, Viva has expanded to 27 senior living facilities across seven states. Ridgewood is its newest and only New Jersey location.
A welcomed addition
to the community
Dixon expressed gratitude for the warm reception Ridgewood has received from Galloway Township officials, including Mayor Tony Coppola, the Township Committee, first responders, and the local community.
For those considering senior living options for themselves or a loved one, Ridgewood Senior Living offers tours by appointment. To schedule a visit, call Charles Dixon at 609-746-1700 or stop by 705 East Moss Mill Road, Galloway Township.
