Truewood by Merrill, Oceanside

David Portener

After an exhaustive search, we selected Merrill Gardens at Oceanside for my wife's mother. From our very first meeting, the staff was outstanding! They are very professional and compassionate, making our family feel very welcomed. Now, my mother-in-law is flourishing! She's more active than she's been in years and has made many new friends. We couldn't be happier!

Paula Jones

I have read the many positive reviews of Merrill Gardens memory care unit and I am happy that so many people have had good experiences. Unfortunately, this is not what my family has experienced in the past two years. As my father’s condition (dementia/Ahlzeimers) worsened, we realized that we needed help in caring for him. We entrusted his care to this facility. At times, we felt that he was respected by staff. Although he had real issues, the caregivers and director worked with us and communicated so that we could be a part of the team. That has changed overtime. The high turn-over of employees, including the director, has caused a breakdown in communication and care. We are fully realistic about how difficult it can be to care for my father yet we expected caregivers in a memory care facility to have the necessary training to address these issues. It's their JOB. I am a kindergarten teacher and understand how to speak to children to “coax” them into compliance - not unlike a dementia patient. I’ve also had to tell parents difficult information, in a compassionate yet honest manner. Reflecting on conversations with staff, the tone has changed from “what can we do to help your father”, to “he has a problem and you need to deal with it”. We accepted that my father’s needs were greater than MG could handle and began looking for another facility weeks ago. When we went to pack and move his belongings, we were horrified at the condition of his room (which we haven’t been in since the Covid-19 quarantine). We should have moved him out much earlier. Teresa, the current director, seemed relieved that he was leaving. On move out day, she didn’t even say goodby to him. Several of the caregivers, however, did reach out. We let them know how much we appreciated them. Overall, MG Memory Care wasn't prepared nor interested in the work involved in providing a quality living experience for our father.

zuri ventura

In response to Josie Morales, I am a current employee at Merrill Gardens Oceanside and The Memory Care Director is my direct supervisor. Under no circumstances has she ever spoken to any staff member or myself like a “dog”. Not only is she very knowledgeable and professional but she takes pride in her work of practice. She is always willing to help out not only the residents, family members, staff members but anyone who walks in the community. Not only am I proud and content to work with her but I love our community Merrill Gardens!

Karyn

Merrill Gardens is the right place for anyone who wants their loved one to be in an environment that is supportive and feels like home. The staff is professional and responsive. The facility and rooms are clean and welcoming. Memory care feels like senior living. We visited 10 other places that felt quite the opposite. This is a one of a kind gem. Everything can be tailored to ensure the residents get what they need and what makes them happy and thrive. It is a pleasure visiting my mom at Merrill Gardens. She loves her room, is making new friends, and really enjoys engaging with staff.