Helping a parent move to an assisted living community is one of the most emotional and significant milestones a family can experience. It’s a decision often made out of love and concern—ensuring safety, support, and a higher quality of life for someone who has always been the caregiver. While the transition can be challenging, it also offers an opportunity for families to grow closer and help their loved ones embrace a new chapter filled with read more…

At The Village of River Oaks, we understand that making the transition to assisted living is one of life’s most personal and important decisions. For many families, the question isn’t whether assisted living is a good option—it’s when the time is right. Knowing the signs to look for and planning ahead can make the transition smoother, more comfortable, and ultimately empowering for your loved one. Recognizing the Signs That It May Be Time for Assisted read more…

Today’s retirees are redefining what it means to age well. Retirement is no longer seen as slowing down, but rather as an exciting new chapter filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and vitality. At the heart of this shift is a focus on healthy aging, supported by thoughtfully designed wellness programs for seniors that nurture the body, mind, and spirit. A Holistic Approach to Wellness Luxury retirement communities understand that true wellness goes far beyond read more…

Senior living today looks very different than it did even a decade ago. Gone are the days when assisted living was seen only as a place for care. Today, it’s about living fully—supported, engaged and connected. Communities are creating vibrant lifestyles where residents don’t just live, they thrive. A Lifestyle of Connection and Joy One of the greatest gifts of assisted living is the opportunity for social connection. Too often, older adults living alone can read more…

Scott Jackman Director of Life Enrichment: Independent Living Scott joined The Village of River Oaks in April 2024, bringing over 15 years of experience developing and directing senior enrichment programs. He oversees classes, movies, outings, and events, and always welcomes resident input. With a background in theater and film, Scott infuses creativity and energy into his programming, believing that engagement through cognitive stimulation and emotional expression enhances senior wellness. He has also presented nationally on read more…

When considering a move to a senior living community—especially one with a monthly rental model—it’s important to understand exactly what your rent includes. At The Village of River Oaks, we believe your monthly fee should reflect both value and elevated living, providing comfort, confidence, and a lifestyle you’re excited to enjoy. Here’s what to look for when evaluating monthly rent and the essential questions to ask during your search: Your Residence, Refined Services, and Upkeep read more…

Patrick McMillan has served as Director of Dining Services at The Village of River Oaks since March 2023, bringing over 10 years of leadership experience in private clubs and luxury hotels. With a focus on quality, consistency, and innovation, he leads the dining team in delivering exceptional culinary experiences. A Culinary Arts graduate of the Art Institute of Houston, Patrick also holds certification from the Court of Master Sommeliers and has completed advanced training through read more…

Katie joined Aspenwood in 2023 as a Sales Counselor at The Village of Southampton and became Director of Sales and Marketing at The Village of River Oaks in February 2024. With 18 years in hospitality and a deep passion for serving seniors, she brings strong relationship-building skills and a commitment to excellence during times of transition. Katie has a proven record of success; she continues to drive growth with thoughtful marketing strategies and personalized service. read more…

At The Village of River Oaks, we often speak with families and future residents who are trying to understand the differences between rental senior living communities and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs), especially when it comes to financial safety. The recent financial hardships and bankruptcies experienced by well-known CCRCs in Dallas and Houston have highlighted why the rental model is increasingly seen as the more secure and sensible choice. Many people believe that when they read more…

Chris joined The Village of River Oaks in October 2023, bringing nearly 20 years of senior living leadership experience and a deep passion for serving older adults and their families. A Dallas-Fort Worth native, he has called Houston home for 17 years and enjoys the city’s rich culture and food scene. After earning a B.S. in Gerontology from the University of North Texas, Chris began his career in a family-run senior living company—and quickly discovered read more…

When many people hear the words “senior living community,” their first thought is often, “Am I ready for that?” But what if we looked at it differently—not as moving in, but as moving forward? Choosing a senior living community, especially one that offers multiple levels of care like Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care, is not about giving something up. It’s about gaining freedom, finding peace of mind, and enriching everyday life—both for residents read more…

When you’re an adult child helping a parent transition to senior living, you often find yourself navigating both the logistics and the emotions of one of life’s biggest changes. It can feel like a balancing act—ensuring your parent feels supported and empowered, while also managing your own concerns and responsibilities. At The Village of River Oaks, we’ve worked with many families in this exact position, and we understand the challenges as well as the rewards. read more…

When a loved one makes the move to a senior living community, safety and security naturally become top priorities. Families want the assurance that their loved one is not only well cared for physically, but also emotionally supported and truly known. At The Village of River Oaks, we believe that feeling safe goes far beyond secure buildings and wellness checks—it starts with being seen, heard and understood. That’s why one of the first steps we read more…

As we age, staying active and engaged is essential for maintaining overall well-being. A fulfilling lifestyle is about more than just passing the time—it’s about fostering joy, connection, and purpose. In senior living communities, a dynamic schedule filled with diverse activities can significantly enhance quality of life, providing both physical and mental benefits. Social Engagement Through Outings Regular outings help seniors stay connected to the broader community and provide opportunities for social interaction. Visiting museums, enjoying a meal at a favorite restaurant, read more…

When considering a move to a senior living community, one of the most important decisions is choosing the right financial model. Many communities operate under one of two main structures: a large buy-in (or entrance fee) model or a rental model with a member fee. Each has its pros and cons, but for those seeking flexibility, financial freedom, and a simpler transition, the rental model—like the one offered at The Village of River Oaks—can be read more…