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Erin Haffner
Dec 12, 2025
I went to Merrill Gardens this week for a holiday vendor market for the residents. The staff were so involved and kind and the residents were very happy. They even raved about how good the food was. It was such a nice place.
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Michael Rubsam
Dec 2, 2025
My mother-in-law lived at this Merrill Gardens for almost two years, and I cannot say enough wonderful things about the care she received. From day one, the staff treated her with compassion, patience, and genuine respect. They took the time to get to know her personality, her routines, and what made her feel comfortable and safe.
The caregivers were consistently attentive and kind, and they communicated with our family regularly, so we always felt informed and involved. The activities team did an amazing job keeping residents engaged with meaningful programs – everything from music sessions to crafts to daily social interactions.
The facility itself was always clean, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed for residents with memory challenges. I always felt at ease knowing my mother-in-law was in an environment that supported her needs and honored her dignity.
I am truly grateful for the dedication and heart of every staff member who cared for her. This community made a difficult journey so much easier, and I would confidently recommend it to any family looking for high-quality, compassionate memory care.
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Melissa Rubsam
Nov 24, 2025
I want to thank Merrill Gardens for treating my family like we were their family. My grandma lived in their Garden House for a year and a half, and it truly is a “garden house”; full of light, warmth, and life from both the residents and the incredible staff.
From the very first tour, my mom and I knew this place was special. We were greeted by friendly residents, and Paula took the time to show us around with so much care. Dementia and Alzheimer’s are never easy, and finding a team to care for your loved one can be overwhelming. But Merrill Gardens gave my grandma a true home where her unique needs were understood and met with compassion.
We got to know the wonderful people who cared for her, and they were such a gift. The staff has remarkable longevity; it’s not a revolving door. Everyone is a Merrill Gardens employee, not a contractor, which brings consistency and genuine connection to the care they provide. The team in the Garden House is endlessly patient, kind, and dedicated to the residents they serve.
I’ll admit, I was very particular when choosing a community for my grandma. Merrill Gardens exceeded every expectation. She was surrounded by people who understood her, cared for her with dignity, and made her feel part of a community.
The activities were thoughtful and joyful, I’ll always cherish the photos and memories from them. The food was great, but more importantly, we never had to worry about whether she was safe or cared for.
I could not thank Merrill Gardens enough for being a light during such a hard time for our family. They gave my grandma not just care, but comfort, connection, and love.
Thank you Mickie, Solame, Sarah, Paula, Dorthy, Annette and so many others for giving my grandma the best care and for making us part of your family.
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Michael Ethridge
Nov 10, 2025
My mom lived at Merrill Gardens for two years and loved it. Although not very active, she really enjoyed the theme dinners, happy hour entertainment and the great service and food. I would highly recommend Merrill Gardens to anyone looking for a safe, secure and entertaining environment.
I moved my mother-in-law from Florida to Merrill Gardens in Woodstock so I would be able to be available to her as she aged. She had a beautiful one bedroom apartment, complete with kitchen, living room, separate bedroom, and a bathroom with washer and dryer. She absolutely thrived! She started out in independent living and enjoyed all aspects of the activities there. She could eat any time of day or cook in her own apartment. She got to know so many people there as well as all the amazing staff who always greeted her warmly with a hug and a smile. The atmosphere is homey. She didn't feel like she was in a "facility" like some assisted living places feel. Eventually, I had to start getting assistance for her, which was a smooth process to start medication administration, and assistance with showers. Mickie, the current director, has a heart for the elderly. She knows how to deflect issues with kindness. She is always available to talk with family members. Sarah, the nurse in charge, is also so wonderful with the residents and was always available for questions or to discuss issues. She is competent and organized. I feel both Mickie and Sarah have become my friends. This is the kind of place you want for your loved ones! FIVE STARS!