The Village at Heritage Oaks

South of the James River, in the Bon Air section of Richmond, The Village at Heritage Oaks provides independent living at 1100 German School Road. The community was formerly listed as Heritage Oaks, and its website now presents it under the current name. It is aimed at older adults who want to keep running their own lives while giving up chores like housekeeping and home maintenance.

Services cover housekeeping, maintenance and transportation, which leaves residents more time for friends and interests. The culinary team cooks homestyle dishes served restaurant style, with menus that rotate to include seasonal choices and familiar standbys. A resident-run cafe gives neighbors a casual place for coffee, and the library and game room offer quieter options during the day.

The activity program includes fitness classes, an arts and crafts studio, creative workshops, group excursions and chances to grow spiritually. Families touring the community can ask about a complimentary chef-prepared lunch to get a feel for the dining room and the people who eat there. A tour is also the time to ask how excursions are chosen, how often they run, and whether residents help plan the calendar.

The community sits off Chippenham Parkway, with Chesterfield Towne Center and Chippenham Hospital in the area, and Forest Hill Park and Maymont Park within reach for outings. Since only independent living is offered, ask how a later need for daily help would be handled, and compare senior living in Richmond before deciding.