Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill

My husband and I visited many senior residences in San Diego County several years in advance of our careful decision to choose Merrill Gardens at Bankers Hill "when the time came". It is clear that our grown children are grateful for our leadership in the important adventure that would ultimately include and support them and their children. When friends ask what living in Merrill Gardens is like, after I report the key life-lifting features, they usually nod their heads in understanding when I respond "It's a combination of magical ocean cruise and best-ever summer camp." The success of the Merrill Gardens corporation is based on sound understanding of the importance of balancing expected needs and bonus blessings related to aging. All levels of staff are clearly well-matched to the mission as well as generous in all manner of commitment to meet needs of residents and maintain respectful support to fellow staff members.

We've been here for 2.5 years and love it. It's a homey and neighborly place. The staff are absolutely wonderful: kind, attentive, and appreciative of each other. The new Senior Manager, Jill Johnson, is a genuine people person, top-notch communicator, and experienced administrator. The common areas have been refreshed and the 4th floor patio is due for a million dollar refresh and extension. The food is great and varied. I'm a vegetarian (some fish) and I find it very easy to work with the offerings and menus. Aaron, the Executive Chef, is very effective and responsive. He ought to receive an award for the spectacular improvements he has made in the menus and the availability of healthy options while preserving traditional "comfort food" options. Being blocks away from Balboa Park is great: miles of trails for walking and hiking. The tours and events are first class. The residents are varied but the overall ambience is positive and caring. We've made many friends here and people are generally good humored, honest, and authentic.

I am breaking my no-review policy to review Merrill Gardens because I want to acknowledge their excellence. My mother has been a resident for about two years and began her stay in Independent Living. I appreciate Merrill Gardens for the many and varied social activities, the appealing food offerings, as well as the caring staff and genial residents. The facility is clean and welcoming. Merrill Gardens makes a point to celebrate holidays and special events in grand style. Their decorations are amazing, and special food is prepared to match the holiday being celebrated. Staff is attentive and responsive to the needs of their residents. Recently my mother has needed Assisted Living care. She has told me that the staff is very good to her. She really appreciates their cheerfulness and willingness to help. I feel great comfort in knowing that she is being so well cared for. Lori Hansen, the General Manager does an excellent job of managing the facility. Without hesitation, I recommend Merrill Gardens for Independent Living as well as Assisted Living.

Everyone on staff was helpful. Phyllis Pilgrim made a special request to the kitchen so that we could enjoy tea together. They made it totally possible.