LD
Linda Davidge
Feb 11, 2026
I’m a relative newcomer to Merrill Gardens but after a short time here I can say it is living up to my expectations in every way. The environment is homey and comfortable and the staff is outstanding and responds quickly to any issues. I would recommend this to any senior looking for a new home.
IC
Ivy Chesser
Jan 24, 2026
My father moved in to the Garden House (the memory care unit) at Merrill Gardens about 4 months ago. It was a hard change for our family but necessary. And I can't say enough about how the staff at MG have supported us all along the way. Felicia found the perfect room for my father and never pressured us. She was considerate of our budget and very transparent about the facility. Then, I worked with Alex Den, the General Manager. She again was professional, understanding and supportive. I am grateful for the relationship we have built. She and Sarum, Senior Resident Care Director, approach decisions for my father together with me as a team. The staff in the Garden House truly care about all the residents and care for them like family. And they are SO PATIENT, gently and kind. The med techs are angels and I am so grateful for the support and gentle guidance they all provide. Especially as I learn to navigate this new phase in our father's life, and how it overlaps with ours. My father is the healthiest he has been in YEARS. He has no bruises, no sores, no scrapes, bumps or stitches. He has no diaper rash. His beard is trimmed. He no longer has a fungal infection on his head (similar to dandruff but BAD). He no longer itches. He is hydrated! He is clean, safe, fed and cared for. His room is lovely, and the food is really good! And last but not least, Coleen is THE BEST. As the Inspire Connections Program Director, my father is always with his friends, engaged in perfectly curated, fun, stimulating activities. There is no way I could do for him what Coleen and team provide him. My father is a bridge master. And Coleen worked so hard and scheduled him a weekly bridge game. He is so happy, and I am so happy. I know one could pay more for care, but I don't think you can find a better team to take care of your loved one, or to support you as you navigate moving to an assisted living home. Even the maintenance staff is incredible! They even programed my dad's remote and do tech support when he has trouble with his TV. Merrill Gardens is a fantastic home.
Sarum is the head of medical care at Merrill Gardens and takes wonderful care of the residents. She has been absolutely outstanding in looking after my mom's medical needs and makes sure her staff responds quickly and decisively to all the residents. The care and attention my mom is receiving at Merrill Gardens is above and beyond due to Sarum's kind heart and attention to detail. Thanks for all you do, Sarum.
MC
marielle cuenca
Oct 29, 2025
I would like to express my sincere appreciation for Sarum Talivaa, Senior Resident Care Director at Merrill Gardens. Her professionalism, compassion, and dedication to the residents and their families truly stand out. Sarum consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that every resident receives the highest level of care and respect. Her leadership creates a positive environment where staff feel supported and residents feel valued. Merrill Gardens is fortunate to have someone as committed and caring as Sarum on their team.
My 93 year old mother has struggled living alone. While she is still fairly alert, her dexterity and ability to cook for herself, etc is becoming increasingly difficult. Never thought we would get to this point. She has always been fiercely independent. We started searching for a solution she would like. After having seen some very “interesting “ options we came across Merrill Gardens. My brothers neighbor recommended this location to us. His dad apparently had similar challenges as our mother and is doing so much better having moved into Merrill Gardens. For us, the difference was definitely the administration of the location. Everything good or bad starts with the people at the top and how much they care or don’t care. In the case of Merrill Gardens it’s clear from our experience that this place is well run. Immediately we noticed how Fresh and Clean everything is compared to the other products we have seen. We also noticed how engaged the staff was with the residents. Seems there is a light hearted atmosphere here we had not noticed at other locations/homes.
Our tour was with Alex who was especially knowledgeable about our situation. She stated she was the administrator which made my mom a lot happier. She is a bit of a snob about who she listens to. Alex was absolutely a treat to my ears. My mother has been difficult during this whole process. Thankfully Alex was super knowledgeable and helpful. Which put my mother at ease. She even commented that she could definitely feel comfortable at Merrill Gardens. My brother remarked how different mom’s attitude was after this tour. Fingers crossed.