Merrill Gardens At Ballard

Do you guys currently have a waitlist?

Yes, we run 100% in occupancy and work off a waitlist, but it doesn't take years to get a unit. All just depends how flexible someone is on the type.

Could you provide an overview of the types of professionals on your staff and the training they undergo at your facility?

We have an LPN who runs the care department. He meets all new residents and works with the families/physicians. We have CNAs/Med techs here 24/7 that pass meds and care for residents. All team members go through lots of training prior to hire date, and we all have continued education on working with seniors/dementia care/CPR/etc.

Could you tell me about the measures you have in place to ensure the safety and well-being of your residents?

We have 24/7 staff and nurses and night along with a night monitor. Someone is at the front desk everyday 8am-8am while the front door is unlocked. Once they leave it is locked to get into the building unless you have a key. We have never had a safety/security issue. We get to know the residents each resident regardless if they are independent or on services. We do care alerts anytime we notice something unusual with a resident. We do a daily check-in too. You can also rent a pendent which has a button you can push for help. People are always shocked when I know everybody's name on a tour but it's easy when you've worked at a place for 4 years.

Do you offer any resources or support services to aid residents' transition into the community?

Yes, we have a team of resident ambassadors that are essentially the welcoming committee. That introduces new residents to other folks. One ambassador makes cookies for each new resident. One ambassador leaves a card with their apartment # and phone #. Another makes sure they don't eat the first meal alone. The ambassadors will invite new residents to activities and basically come knock on the door when they move in. We have a resident ambassador that works at the Ballard Senior Center and talks with new residents about that too.

Do you offer transportation services for residents?

Yes, we have free scheduled transportation every Tuesday/Thursday/Friday/Sunday included in the rent. On Tuesdays and Thursday, we do medical transportation to doctors' appointments. On Friday we do an errand/grocery shuttle and on Sunday we have a church shuttle. You can also hire our concierge during the week, and he can drive folks wherever, but he charges 50 dollars an hour.

Could you tell me a little about your dining experience?

I started as a cook in the kitchen 13 years ago so I could bore you to tears about our food. We have anytime dining 7am-7pm and all residents can eat as much or as little as they want restaurant style every day of the year. We will do buffet style for special events/holidays. We have 3 entrees that change daily along with soup, dessert, and 4 sides that change daily. We also have an always available menu with sandwiches/salads/etc.

What is the process that takes place if a resident has a complaint or an issue they want addressed?

Anyone can always talk to my GM who has been with Merrill for 15 years and worked at this building since its opened. All residents and families have her personal cell phone #. We also do a monthly activity chat if people have questions or concerns about the activity calendar. We also do a monthly chef forum where folks can sit down and chat with the chef about the food.

What is the cost of living in your community?

Units run 3800 to over 8k for the penthouse two-bedroom units. I'll attach a rate sheet. Costs are simple and everything is included in the rent with the exception of pets/parking/assisted living like medical care.

What is your policy on communication with resident's families? How do you keep them updated about their loved ones' well-being?

It all depends on the situation, like if someone is independent or on assisted living. It depends on how they signed the lease agreement too. It depends if a family member is POA or not. I've done this forever and seen all kinds of different family dynamics so it can be a difficult piece to navigate. To give you an idea we will never change a care plan without communication with the family. When something happens medically, we will communicate with everyone listed on the emergency contacts. We also do care alerts, so we have situations documented for the families if they are concerned or if we have concerns about well-being.

Do you all offer short-term or respite stays? How much does this cost?

We do not. We run 100% and don't have available units to do respite.

Are you all a pet-friendly community?

Yes! We love animals.

Are residents able to get Covid vaccination and flu vaccinations in the community?

Yes, we have done lots of COVID and flu vaccination clinics in the building.

Are residents able to age in place?

Yes! That is the whole idea. Lots of folks have lived here for years and some have moved in independently but then added services as they age. Every unit is licensed for both independent and assisted living so you can stay in the same unit. It's great for couples too.