Riverside Opens Four New Homes

In the past six months, Riverside has opened four new residences in the towns of Andover, Wakefield, and Cambridge for adults with acquired brain injury and developmental disabilities.  The new home in Wakefield was established specifically to support five young men with intellectual and developmental disabilities who have recently turned 22 (the year these young adults transition from the school system to adult supports).  In fact, the home was renovated with special lighting, blinds, textures, scents, and paint colors that are sensory-friendly to those with autism.

This brings the total of Riverside homes supported by our Developmental and Cognitive Services Division to 26, with additional homes in Foxboro, Newton, North Reading, Norwood, Peabody, Reading, Stoneham, Walpole, Waltham, Wakefield, Watertown, and Woburn.

The new residences, which support three to five people and are staffed 24/7, feel safe and warm and are tastefully decorated with personal touches throughout.  When residents return to their homes (those with intellectual and developmental disabilities generally attend a separate program during the day), their afternoon may include a community event – such as a trip to the library, gym, or a local park– a medical appointment, or some rest and relaxation.

Creating these homes and seeing the residents settle in has been extremely rewarding for all those involved, including the many friends and neighbors they have in the community.  We are so pleased to welcome the residents to the Riverside community!