Merrill Gardens at Lafayette

About 7 years ago, my mother's health condition became life-threatening and she was told to move closer to sea level (she and my dad lived at 8,000+ ft in Mammoth Lakes, CA) within 2 weeks or she could die. I'd heard of and driven by Merrill Gardens, so I toured it, loved it, and found, thankfully, that there was one vacancy! We moved my parents (and their pup) into a sunny, lovely MG apartment, thinking it would be a nice, temporary landing spot till they decided where they'd go next. Well, it didn't take long for MG to feel like home. Over time, my mother's health declined and MG, particularly Troy, was invaluable in helping to navigate her changing hospital, skilled nursing, and hospice needs, the most difficult of which was during the height of COVID. Troy was amazing. Since my mother passed, MG has embraced my father (and me), making him feel cared for and valued, such that much of his vitality, sassiness, and humor has been restored. A LOT of that is thanks to Julianne, Activities Director extraordinaire! She really listens to residents and curates a wide variety of activites (twice daily movies, clubs, games, parties, field trips, weekly happy hours with live music, and so much more!)--her sincerity, energy, and creativity is boundless. She is a treasure. Shout outs also to the always-on, cheerful front desk managers, including Danielle and Patty, who set a tone of vibrancy and good humor. A huge part of the MG Lafayette experience is provided by Chef Max and his team, who cook up delectable meals every day, and then really pull out all the stops for holidays and special occasions! My dad loves the food so much there that he now prefers that we eat there rather than go out to a restaurant! Thanks also to Kamal Singh who fairly recently became Director at MG Lafayette and, in short order, has expanded upon the warm, family-feeling culture, taking it to the next level! The history, the present, and future are all bright at MG Lafayette! THANK YOU!

Our mother moved into Merrill Gardens in Lafayette just over 6 months ago. In home care, when needed, was the plan, but I have to say that the pivot to Merrill has been seamless thanks to the wonderful staff. Kamal Singh has been amazing not only, and most importantly, with our mother but with myself and my siblings. All of the ladies at the front desk need to be commended though. They are so kind and caring. The staff in the dining room, from the cooks, waiters to the executive Chef, Max, are helpful, warm and engaging. The entire staff takes the time to get to know the residents and their families and go above and beyond to be personal, kind and timely with any issues or concerns. The "large one bedroom" apartment is bright and cheery and contains the extras (like full size washer and dryer), full kitchen, ample bathroom with all the safety features and because you furnish it yourself (they even give you the info for a great mover!) it quickly felt like home. Moving out of our family home of 60 years was made so much easier thanks to the wonderful facility and staff at Merrill. Oh, so many activities to chose from! Movies in the movie theater twice a day, cultural activities, games and even happy hours with live music every Friday. We could not have made a better choice . The peace of mind for me and my siblings knowing she is in such good hands makes all the difference!

It's always difficult to move your parent into a place that is not their home. Given that, a we could not find a place better than Merrill Gardens. It's good to know that Mom has staff visiting her multiple times a day and can check on her safety. They also provide great meals, activities, and a clean environment.

Merrill Gardens has been a great place for my Father In Law. The staff is very responsive and there are plenty of activities and amenities. We feel like he has been well cared for there (and we are there regularly to visit, so we can confirm these things). Recommended!