Ohman Family Living at Briar

Stories from the Campus

Events, community news, and life on the Briar grounds — straight from the people who call it home.

Can VA Benefits Help Pay for Senior Care? Free Community Evening — Ohman Family Living at Briar COMMUNITY EVENT

October 14, 2026  ·  COMMUNITY EVENT

Can VA Benefits Help Pay for Senior Care? A Free Evening in Middlefield

Join Ohman Family Living at Briar on Wednesday, October 14 (5–7 PM) for an informative community evening on VA Aid & Attendance benefits, eligibility for surviving spouses, and 2027 Medicare changes.

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American Flag flying from crane at sunset at the Geauga Veterans Sport Fest RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT

September 21, 2026  ·  RESIDENT SPOTLIGHT

Meet Simon: Our 102-Year-Old WWII Veteran Resident

Every Friday morning, 102-year-old WWII Army veteran Simon shares stories with fellow veteran residents over breakfast. Read how our Middlefield community and Congressman Dave Joyce honored his service.

Read Simon's Story on Briar.Health →
Cozy illuminated outdoor holiday market concession trailer decorated with pumpkins and autumn harvest COMMUNITY EVENT

October 5, 2026  ·  COMMUNITY EVENT

Holiday Outdoor Market at The Cottages

Join us Saturday, November 7 from 1 to 5 PM at The Cottages at Briar for over 40 artisan vendors, food trucks, photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus, a fireside s’more station, and open cottage walkthroughs.

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Excavation equipment and ground staking for the new community pavilion on the Briar campus grounds LIFE AT BRIAR

September 8, 2026  ·  LIFE AT BRIAR

It's the Little Things That Make a Place Feel Like Home

We're excited to break ground on a brand-new outdoor pavilion at The Cottages — creating dedicated spaces for cookouts, family visits, and everyday connections.

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Senior father and adult daughter sitting together on a welcoming front porch having a heartfelt conversation FAMILY

July 8, 2026  ·  FAMILY

When Your Parents Say, "I'm Not Moving"

Why practical arguments rarely work, how to honor emotional attachment, and how families navigate one of life's toughest conversations.

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Woman in a yellow knit sweater writing in a personal journal diary, managing everyday responsibilities and caregiver schedules FAMILY

July 6, 2026  ·  FAMILY

When Everyday Responsibilities Become Overwhelming

When the worry shifts from whether a parent can live independently to everything they're carrying alone. Read the final chapter of our Daughter Diaries series.

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Close-up of hands writing in a journal notebook with a warm cup of coffee and cozy blanket in the background FAMILY

June 25, 2026  ·  FAMILY

Who's Taking Care of the Caregiver?

Caring for an aging parent can feel overwhelming. Learn how independent living at The Cottages at Briar supports both older adults and the family members who care for them.

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Orange marigolds in wooden crates at an outdoor market with vendor canopies LIFE AT BRIAR

May 16, 2026  ·  LIFE AT BRIAR

Bloom & Browse at Briar — An Outdoor Green Market

Twenty-three local vendors. Flowers, coffee, fresh bread, honey, handmade goods. No admission. Just a reason to gather on the Briar campus this May.

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Briar resident walking the campus pathway on a sunny afternoon FAMILY

June 2, 2026  ·  FAMILY

Signs Your Parent May Be Overwhelmed at Home

The small things adult children notice first — and what they often mean before a crisis happens.

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Tree-lined pathway through the Briar campus in Middlefield, Ohio FAMILY

June 2, 2026  ·  FAMILY

Nobody Prepares You for Becoming the Parent to Your Parent

The emotional shift no one warns adult children about — and why families are starting the conversation earlier.

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Exterior of a Briar cottage in spring with mature landscaping FAMILY

June 2, 2026  ·  FAMILY

What Proactive Senior Living Planning Actually Means

Why more families in Ohio are choosing independent living before life forces the decision.

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Briar resident walking the campus pathway on a sunny afternoon FAMILY

June 2, 2026  ·  FAMILY

Things Families Wish They Knew Earlier About Senior Living

The most common things families say after the move — and what they wish they'd known sooner.

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Graphic with text: When You Start Thinking... Maybe It's Time for Something Easier GUIDE

May 2026 · GUIDE

Independent Living for Seniors: Signs It Might Be Time to Simplify Life

Discover the subtle signs that your parent may be ready for a simpler, maintenance-free lifestyle.

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Exterior of a Briar cottage in spring with mature landscaping GUIDE

May 2026 · GUIDE

What to Look for in an Independent Living Community

Not all independent living communities are the same. Learn what really matters when choosing the right place.

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Tree-lined pathway through the Briar campus in Middlefield, Ohio GUIDE

May 2026 · GUIDE

What Independent Living Can Change—for Your Parent and for You

Discover how independent living improves quality of life for seniors—less stress, more freedom, and peace of mind for families.

Read the guide