Merrill Gardens at Tukwila delivers three levels of care—Assisted Living, Independent Living, and Memory Care—under one roof, allowing residents to move between service levels as needs change. The community is equipped to manage complicated medical profiles, including residents who wander during the day or night, have elopement risk, exhibit combative or other behavioral issues, or stay up all night. Clinical staff handle wound care, oxygen use, special diets, and diabetes management whether the resident relies on oral medication, injections, or a sliding-scale regimen. Younger adults with disabilities are also accepted, and the Memory Care program is designed to support all stages of dementia, including advanced conditions.

Around-the-clock support is built into daily operations. An RN or LPN is on site, a nurse is on call 24 hours a day, and the night shift remains awake. Apartments are connected to staff through pull cords and personal emergency response systems, and all exterior doors are alarmed. Residents receive full assistance with bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting when needed, and staff can supervise or perform one-person transfers for those using walkers or wheelchairs. On-site medical services include medication management, incontinence and ambulatory care, and a dedicated Memory Care environment planned specifically for cognitive loss. An activity director and 24-hour security coverage add additional layers of oversight.

Apartments vary in layout and amenities, but options can include a private bathroom, kitchenette, independent temperature controls, and cable service. Since not every unit has every feature, families are encouraged to confirm specific details during a tour. Weekly housekeeping and laundry are standard, and Independent Living residents can opt for medication-management monitoring, allowing them to remain in a lower level of care while still receiving oversight.

Dining follows an on-order model that lets residents choose meals at the time of service rather than selecting days in advance. Snacks are available throughout the day, and the kitchen staff accommodates physician-ordered diet modifications such as diabetic, low-sodium, or texture-altered menus. Independent Living residents have access to a monthly meal plan that balances flexibility with predictable budgeting.

The community offers resident parking, wheelchair-accessible common areas, an exercise room, movie room, wellness center, barber and beauty services, and internet access throughout the building. Scheduled transportation is available, and the campus sits close to public transit for added convenience. Smoking is permitted in designated outdoor areas, and pets are allowed; it’s a good idea to check with the community during your visit to see if your pet will be allowed.

Residents and their families say:

This community receives high praise for its exceptional security measures, modern amenities, and the overall aesthetic of its facilities. Reviewers frequently highlight the community’s robust security, which includes a meticulous intake system that reassures both residents and their families about safety. Such emphasis on security, alongside the presence of 24-hour staff and innovative technology for monitoring who enters and exits, instills confidence in the community’s commitment to its residents' well-being. The beautiful, hotel-like environment extends to the dining experience, with top-notch chefs, waitstaff in uniform, and freshly prepared, delicious meals served in a setting compared to a five-star restaurant. Attention to detail is evident in the freshly pressed white tablecloths and the option for residents to choose where they sit, emphasizing personal choice and flexibility.

The community's living spaces, from the apartments to the communal areas, are consistently described as clean, modern, and well-designed. Large windows and bright rooms create an airy and welcoming atmosphere, contributing to the overall positive experience of living there. The inclusion of a wide variety of amenities such as salons, gyms, and physical therapy facilities, as well as specialized areas like a rooftop garden offering views of Mount Rainier, enhances the quality of life for residents. The comprehensive activity program, including outings, music, and painting classes, alongside ample opportunities for social interaction, supports an engaged and vibrant community life.

Families and residents express deep appreciation for the caring and professional staff, who are noted for their respectful and considerate treatment of residents across different levels of care, from assisted living to memory care. Reviewers particularly value the community's warm and inclusive atmosphere, highlighting the diversity among residents and the efforts made to accommodate individual needs and preferences. The exceptional food, variety of activities, and opportunities for family involvement are repeatedly mentioned as some of the reasons why many consider this community to be a preferred choice for loved ones.

AI generated summary of real reviews