Ben PhilipMeadow Ridge Retirement Community, located in Redding, Connecticut, is one of the most distinguished continuing care retirement communities in the region. Spanning 136 acres of scenic countryside, it combines luxury living, high-quality healthcare, and an engaging lifestyle for adults aged 62 and older. The community offers a full continuum of care—allowing residents to transition seamlessly from independent living to assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing without having to leave the campus. With spacious residences, resort-style amenities, and a vibrant social calendar, Meadow Ridge provides a secure and enriching environment for retirement living.
Meadow Ridge Retirement Community
Overview and Location
Located at 100 Redding Road, Redding, Connecticut, Meadow Ridge is a prestigious continuing care retirement community (CCRC), serving individuals aged 62 and older. Spread over 136 scenic acres in a landscape often referred to as the “Vermont of Connecticut,” it offers a serene rural ambiance complete with hiking trails, open preservation land, and pastoral views, all while being conveniently close to cultural attractions, shopping, New York City via train, and Yale University.
Benchmark Senior Living, a major provider of senior care services in the Northeast, became part owner and the operator in 2021, joining forces with the original developer, Senior Care Development, to manage the largest CCRC in Connecticut.
Continuum of Care and Lifecare Structure
Meadow Ridge offers a full continuum of care on one campus:
- Independent Living, with spacious, luxury apartment homes
- Assisted Living services for those needing support with daily activities
- Memory Care for dementia and cognitive challenges
- Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, primarily through its Ridge Crest health center
Residents typically enter as Independent Living occupants and, as care needs evolve, transition smoothly through the continuum without relocating. This benefit is supported through the Type-A Lifecare contract, which involves a one-time admission fee starting at approximately \$536,250 with up to an 80 percent refund structure, along with a predictable monthly fee ranging between \$6,430 and \$12,005, regardless of care level changes.
Living Environment and Apartment Features
Independent Living apartments at Meadow Ridge are among the largest in the state, featuring upscale touches such as walk-in closets, fireplaces, crown molding, stone countertops, and high-end appliances.
The community provides a maintenance-free lifestyle where everything is handled, from changing light bulbs and repairing appliances to snow removal and lawn care.
Amenities and Enrichment Opportunities
Life at Meadow Ridge is enhanced by a rich array of amenities and programs:
- Indoor amenities: a three-story atrium with koi pond and greenery, indoor pool, sauna, fitness center, multimedia auditorium, country store, salon, and barbershop
- Outdoor amenities: tennis, pickleball, and croquet courts, mini-golf and putting green, hiking trails, gardening spaces, and a fishing pond
- Enrichment programs: up to 75 weekly activities, including Meadow Ridge University, art classes, fitness, language sessions, book clubs, social hours, day trips, lectures, and continuing education in partnership with local institutions
- Pet-friendly features: “Yappy Hour” events and a dedicated Bark Ridge Dog Park
Medical and Care Services
At the heart of Meadow Ridge’s care continuum is Ridge Crest, the skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility. It is Medicare five-star rated, recognized by national publications, and honored as a Center of Excellence in Wound Management.
Assisted Living residences offer round-the-clock licensed nursing, emergency systems, personalized care planning, three daily chef-prepared meals, housekeeping, laundry, utilities, maintenance, transportation, lounges, libraries, and indoor paths. These services ensure residents receive the support they need while maintaining independence.
The Memory Care neighborhood, expanded in 2022, is designed to reduce stress and maximize comfort for residents with cognitive impairments. Around 28 new units were added to provide specialized, personalized memory support.
Reputation and Resident Feedback
Meadow Ridge consistently earns high marks for its quality and atmosphere. It has received recognition in national senior living rankings and awards based on resident and family feedback. Many describe it as offering luxury living in a beautiful setting with a strong sense of freedom and relaxation. The three-story atrium with koi pond is often highlighted as a standout feature, offering a peaceful environment year-round.
Cost and Financial Structure
As a Type-A Lifecare CCRC, Meadow Ridge features:
- Admission fee starting at about \$536,250, with refund options up to 80 percent
- Monthly fees ranging from roughly \$6,430 to \$12,005, depending on accommodation type and services needed
These fees cover a wide range of services, including housekeeping, dining, transportation, 24-hour emergency response, maintenance, snow removal, utilities (excluding phone), parking, security, and access to on-site amenities and activities. Many residents are also able to use long-term care insurance to help offset costs for higher levels of care.
Summary Highlights in Table Form
Feature / Distinction | Details |
| ———————— | ————————————————————————— |
Location | Redding, CT (136-acre lush campus near NYC) |
Continuum of Care | Independent Living → Assisted Living → Memory Care → Skilled Nursing/Rehab |
Care Structure | Type-A Lifecare: one-time admission fee plus monthly fee, predictable costs |
Apartment Quality | Spacious, luxury finishes with maintenance-free living |
Amenities and Activities | Indoor pool, atrium, wellness center, pet park, extensive programs |
Medical Services | On-site skilled nursing, rehab, memory care, licensed staff |
Awards and Reputation | National recognition, resident satisfaction |
Costs | Admission fee \~\$536K; monthly \$6K–12K; includes broad services |
Operator | Benchmark Senior Living (since 2021) |
Resident Feedback | High praise for ambiance, community, and ease of living |
Final Thoughts
Meadow Ridge Retirement Community stands out as a top-tier, comprehensive, and refined living option for older adults seeking a maintenance-free lifestyle without sacrificing choice, quality, or long-term security.
Strategically designed for comfort, wellness, and enrichment, it caters to evolving care needs within a single vibrant campus. Whether you value peaceful natural surroundings, lifelong learning opportunities, fine dining, pet-friendly spaces, or a warm and welcoming atmosphere combined with high-quality care, Meadow Ridge offers a complete retirement living experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Meadow Ridge Retirement Community?
A. Meadow Ridge is a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing services all on one campus. It is designed to provide a maintenance-free lifestyle with access to quality healthcare and a variety of programs to keep residents active, engaged, and comfortable.
Q: How many homes are in the community?
A. Meadow Ridge offers a large selection of independent living residences, including some of the most spacious apartment homes in Connecticut. The exact number of units varies slightly over time, but the community is designed to accommodate hundreds of residents across independent and assisted living areas, as well as its healthcare center.
Q: What types of homes are available?
A. The community features luxury independent living apartments with one, two, or three bedrooms, as well as assisted living suites and specialized accommodations for memory care residents. All homes include modern finishes, ample storage, and safety features, with many offering scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
Q: What amenities are available?
A. Meadow Ridge offers a wide range of amenities, including a three-story atrium with a koi pond, an indoor swimming pool, a fitness center, sauna, salon, library, auditorium, tennis and pickleball courts, putting greens, gardening spaces, and a pet park. Residents also enjoy fine dining venues, walking trails, and a variety of hobby and activity rooms.
Q: Are there educational opportunities?
A. Yes. Meadow Ridge hosts regular lectures, art classes, book clubs, and continuing education programs, including partnerships with local institutions. Residents can participate in “Meadow Ridge University” sessions, foreign language classes, and skill-based workshops.
Q: What healthcare facilities are nearby?
A. On-site, Meadow Ridge offers Ridge Crest, a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center with 24-hour licensed nursing staff. The campus also has dedicated assisted living and memory care neighborhoods. Nearby hospitals and medical centers provide additional specialized care when needed.
Q: What shopping and dining options are available?
A. Within the community, residents enjoy chef-prepared meals in multiple dining venues. Beyond the campus, Redding and nearby towns offer a range of shopping options, grocery stores, cafes, and restaurants. The location also provides convenient access to larger retail areas and city dining in Danbury, Westport, and even New York City.
Q: What recreational activities are nearby?
A. In addition to on-site activities, Meadow Ridge’s location offers opportunities for golf, fishing, hiking, cultural events, and day trips to nearby coastal towns. Residents can explore local farmers’ markets, art galleries, and historic sites.
Q: What committees are available for residents?
A. Residents can join a variety of committees focused on community life, including dining services, resident events, wellness and fitness, gardening, and volunteer programs. These committees allow residents to shape their environment and maintain a sense of purpose and involvement.
Conclusion
Meadow Ridge Retirement Community offers more than just a place to live—it provides a complete lifestyle centered on comfort, security, and personal fulfillment. With its beautiful setting, wide-ranging amenities, and dedication to lifelong wellness, Meadow Ridge allows residents to enjoy a vibrant and independent life while knowing that future care needs will be met. Whether relaxing in the gardens, taking a class, or socializing with neighbors, residents can truly enjoy peace of mind and the freedom to make the most of their retirement years.