Riderwood: A Community Focused on Health and Well-Being for Seniors

Hannah and Bernard Spalding, who currently enjoy their retirement in Santee, S.C., had not initially planned to move into a senior living community. However, an unexpected medical need prompted them to reconsider their living situation.

While living in Santee, Bernard required back surgery. Hannah recounted, ‘I had to drive him an hour-and-a-half to Florence, N.C., to find a qualified doctor to perform the operation.’ This situation served as a ‘wake-up call’ for the couple, prompting them to think seriously about their future care options.

Consequently, the Spaldings decided to relocate back to the Washington, D.C. area, where their children reside, and where they had lived prior to their retirement.

Riderwood, an Erickson Senior Living community located in Silver Spring, Md., emerged as the perfect choice for them. “Making the move would mean better care for us and peace of mind for our children,” explained Hannah. “If we got sick down in South Carolina, they would have to drive eight hours each way to take care of us. We didn’t want that for them.”

Dee Dee Gray-Weaver, executive director of Riderwood, elaborated, ‘Our residents benefit from exceptional care addressing both immediate and long-term needs, all within a familiar setting that supports their overall well-being.’

The Doctor is In

With seven board-certified physicians and numerous professionals specializing in senior healthcare, Riderwood’s residents find it convenient to access the medical support they need. The medical center also offers telehealth check-ins and home visits, accommodating residents who wish to maintain relationships with their existing primary care providers.

Hannah was eager to benefit from Riderwood’s convenient healthcare services and said, ‘We signed up at the medical center as soon as we moved in!’

A Healthcare Background

Prior to their move, Hannah served on the board of directors for a federally funded health center in South Carolina, providing her with extensive experience in healthcare. ‘Raising four children and attending numerous doctor’s appointments with Bernard has given me the opportunity to interact with many physicians,’ she reflected. ‘I feel confident in stating that the staff at the medical center are highly qualified.’

‘At Riderwood, our geriatricians care for us around the clock, seven days a week, seeing patients aged 62 to 106. They exclusively see Riderwood residents, ensuring they are well-acquainted with our healthcare needs,’ Hannah added.

Continuum of Care

For residents requiring higher levels of care, Arbor Ridge – Riderwood’s on-campus continuing care neighborhood – provides various options, including rehabilitation programs, skilled nursing, assisted living, and memory care services. This integrated medical team ensures seamless transitions between different care professionals.

Since the Spaldings’ arrival in 2008, Bernard has received care at Arbor Ridge three times. Hannah noted, ‘He’s examined by a Riderwood doctor – who knows him – on the first day. Not only is the care thoughtful and thorough, but it is also extremely convenient for me, as it’s within walking distance.’

Hannah’s experience on both the Resident Health Services Committee and the Family Health Council at Arbor Ridge has provided her with valuable insight into the level of care all Riderwood residents receive.

“We have residents who travel, and if they become ill or injured, the Riderwood medical team supports them no matter where they are,” she elaborated. ‘One of my friends fell while on a cruise and ended up in an Alaskan hospital. Our Riderwood nurse practitioner maintained contact with her and the hospital daily to ensure her care was adequate and that everything was ready for her return. I find that so remarkable.’

‘Keep Us Well’

With confidence in Riderwood’s healthcare services, the Spaldings are looking toward a happy and healthy 2025. ‘I really appreciate all the efforts made to keep us well,’ Hannah shared. ‘I’ve always thought of Riderwood as our little town. Of all the towns I’ve lived in, this one is much better supplied and filled with qualified people—individuals who genuinely care about you.’

To learn more about the benefits of moving to a maintenance-free community, request more information today.