Merrill Gardens at Columbia

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  • Interior

    A modern and bright bedroom with wooden flooring, featuring a large bed, desk, and ample natural light from the windows.

  • Outdoors

    A sunny day in the park with a view of trees, grass, and a walking path.

  • Decor

    A modern kitchen interior with sleek countertops and appliances.

  • Living Room

    A modern open-concept living space featuring a kitchen with granite countertops, bar stools, and a cozy living area with vibrant decor.

  • Building

    Aerial view of a modern residential apartment complex on a sunny day.

  • Architecture

    A modern apartment complex with large windows and an entrance area, featuring a flagpole and landscaped surroundings.

  • Windows

    A modern living room featuring comfortable seating and large windows, illuminated by natural light.

  • Dining

    A modern open-plan kitchen and living room with white cabinets and wood flooring.

  • Kitchen

    A modern apartment kitchen with an open layout, featuring stainless steel appliances, white cabinets, and hardwood flooring.

  • Lighting

    A modern and stylish restaurant interior with comfortable seating and elegant lighting.

  • Seating Area

    A modern and cozy living room featuring a fireplace, comfortable seating, and a bookshelf.

  • Floor Plan

    A floor plan of a one-bedroom apartment layout showing the living room, kitchen, and bathroom.

  • Patio

    A modern rooftop patio with outdoor furniture and a clear sky.

  • Lounge

    Modern lounge area with high ceilings and a spacious seating arrangement.

Merrill Gardens at Columbia

2205 Gregg St, Columbia, SC 29201

For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973

4.6 from 38 reviews
5 stars
24
4 stars
11
3 stars
3
2 stars
0
1 stars
0

Assisted Living Independent Living

Merrill Gardens at Columbia Costs & Pricing

Merrill Gardens at Columbia offers competitive pricing for its residential options, making it an attractive choice compared to both Richland County and the broader South Carolina market. For example, a studio apartment is available at $2,195 per month, significantly lower than the county's average of $3,263 and the state average of $3,649. One-bedroom units follow a similar trend, priced at $2,795, which is more affordable than Richland County's rate of $3,477 and South Carolina's overall average of $3,806. Even with two-bedroom accommodations priced at $4,595, Merrill Gardens remains within reach of the county's average of $4,475 and below the state average of $4,337. Overall, Merrill Gardens provides residents with quality living spaces that offer significant savings when compared to regional costs.

Floor plansMerrill Gardens at ColumbiaRichland CountySouth Carolina
Studio$2,195$3,263$3,649
1 Bedroom$2,795$3,477$3,806
2 Bedrooms$4,595$4,475$4,337

Overall Review of Merrill Gardens at Columbia

Pros

  • pro The facility is clean, beautifully designed, and has a welcoming atmosphere that feels more like a high-end hotel than a nursing home.
  • pro Residents appear happy and well-cared for, with friendly and attentive staff who provide great support.
  • pro There is a wide variety of activities available, which encourages resident participation and social interaction.
  • pro The food served is generally praised for its quality and variety, with options available throughout the day.
  • pro Families report feeling satisfied with the level of care their loved ones receive at Merrill Gardens at Columbia.
  • pro Many residents appreciate the spacious apartments filled with natural light and modern amenities.
  • pro The management team is described as compassionate, intelligent, and dedicated to ensuring a positive experience for both residents and families.
  • pro Overall impressions of the community highlight strong relationships among residents and staff, contributing to a sense of belonging.

Cons

  • pro The staff at the assisted living facility were not very attentive or kind, leading to multiple falls and injuries for the residents.
  • pro There were issues with the initial intake paperwork, causing unnecessary scrambling and confusion for families.
  • pro The food served was often cold and too fancy, leading to complaints from residents.
  • pro One resident's friend had to wait for room cleaning due to insufficient staffing, indicating poor management of cleaning duties.
  • pro Despite its beautiful appearance, the facility did not meet expectations for some residents who felt it was better suited for independent living rather than assisted care.
  • pro One reviewer noted that while the facility is nice and new, it was not chosen due to the inconvenient location of the eating area being in the basement, which posed mobility challenges.

Review

Merrill Gardens at Columbia has garnered a mixed but predominantly positive reception from residents and their families, highlighting various aspects of the facility that stand out for their quality and care. Many reviews emphasize the welcoming environment, where cleanliness and comfort are prioritized, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere reminiscent of a high-end hotel rather than a traditional nursing home. The open spaces allow ample natural light, creating a bright and inviting living space for its residents. Many reviewers were struck by the friendliness of both the staff and the fellow residents, who often greeted visitors warmly during tours or casual encounters around the community.

One significant advantage noted across multiple reviews is the exceptional attention provided by much of the staff. The team at Merrill Gardens is often described as kind, patient, and attentive, which can make all the difference for elderly individuals adjusting to new living situations. A few reviewers mentioned specific staff members who went above and beyond in providing care, fostering a sense of trust among residents and their families. This personal touch contributes significantly to residents feeling well cared for in an environment that encourages social interaction—something critical for many seniors seeking companionship after transitioning into assisted living.

While many residents find happiness in their new homes at Merrill Gardens, some expressed concerns about specific operational issues within the facility. For instance, one family mentioned challenges they faced during initial intake due to unclear communication regarding necessary paperwork. This experience highlighted potential areas for improvement within staff organization that could enhance future resident transitions. There were also comments regarding adequacy in cleaning services; some family members felt that staffing shortages led to less timely room preparations before move-in dates.

Dining experiences at Merrill Gardens received mixed reviews as well. Several families expressed satisfaction with food quality and variety; however, there were complaints about meal temperatures being inconsistent or overly elaborate dishes that not all residents enjoyed. Despite these critiques, most emphasized that meals are plentiful with flexible dining hours accommodating resident needs through breakfast options available until late afternoon.

Another theme resonating throughout several testimonials was how important location is when choosing an assisted living facility. Many praised Merrill Gardens’ proximity to local amenities such as shops and churches while highlighting the attractive architecture surrounding it—the historical context bolstering its charm. While some prospective residents had to prioritize immediate availability over ideal facilities due to waiting lists or size limitations on apartments (such as needing larger rooms), those who toured often left with lasting impressions about how it would be an appealing place to live if circumstances allowed.

Finally, despite minor disagreements over food options or organizational efficiency during transitions, many reviewers voiced strong recommendations for Merrill Gardens at Columbia based on overall impressions gathered from visits or lived experiences. Reviews consistently noted aspects like beautiful settings complemented by supportive staff actively engaged in enhancing community bonds through activities ranging from exercise classes to games like bingo or chair volleyball—further promoting socialization among seniors residing there.

In summary, while every facility comes with its set of challenges—as evidenced by feedback concerning paperwork handling or dining preferences—the overwhelming sentiment remains positive towards Merrill Gardens at Columbia as an excellent choice for those seeking assisted living accommodations characterized by caring support systems amidst vibrant social interactions.

Features

Types of Care

  • Assisted Living Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities provide crucial support and care for seniors who may need help with daily tasks such as medication management, bathing, and meal preparation. These communities offer a safe and comfortable environment where seniors can maintain their independence while receiving the assistance they need to thrive in their golden years.
  • Independent Living Independent LivingIndependent living communities are important for seniors because they offer a safe and supportive environment where older adults can live independently while still having access to amenities and services that enhance their quality of life. These communities provide social opportunities, recreational activities, and assistance with daily tasks, promoting overall well-being and allowing seniors to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

Pets

  • Cats allowed Cats allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.
  • Dogs allowed Dogs allowed"Pet friendly" senior living communities are important for seniors because pets provide companionship, reduce feelings of loneliness and depression, promote physical activity and mental stimulation, and offer a sense of purpose and responsibility. Pets can improve overall well-being and quality of life for seniors in many ways.

Amenities

  • Activities off-site Activities off-siteEngaging in off-site activities is crucial for seniors to maintain social connections, stay active, and stimulate their minds. It promotes overall well-being and helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Activities on-site Activities on-siteActivities on-site are important for seniors because they provide opportunities for socialization, mental stimulation, physical activity, and overall well-being. Engaging in activities can help seniors stay active, maintain their independence, and improve their quality of life.
  • Air-conditioning Air-conditioningAir conditioning is important for seniors as they are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and may have underlying health conditions that make it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. It helps to keep them comfortable, safe, and healthy in hot weather.
  • Beautician on-site Beautician on-siteHaving a beautician on-site at a senior living community is important for seniors as it allows them to easily access grooming and personal care services, boosting their self-esteem and overall well-being. It also provides convenience and helps seniors maintain their sense of independence and personal style.
  • Cable or satellite TV Cable or satellite TVCable or satellite TV is important for seniors because it provides entertainment, news, and companionship, helping to combat loneliness and boredom. It also offers a wide range of programming options tailored to different interests and preferences.
  • Devotional services off-site Devotional services off-siteDevotional services off-site are important for seniors as they provide spiritual nourishment, social engagement, and a sense of community outside of the senior living facility. This can enhance overall well-being and help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness often experienced by older adults.
  • Devotional services on-site Devotional services on-siteDevotional services on-site provide seniors with spiritual support and a sense of community, as well as an opportunity for reflection and guidance during their senior living experience. This can promote emotional well-being and connection to others, leading to a more fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in their later years.
  • Full kitchen Full kitchenHaving a full kitchen in a senior living facility is important for seniors because it allows them to maintain their independence and prepare their own meals. This promotes healthy eating habits, saves money on dining out, and provides a sense of familiarity and comfort for residents.
  • Ground floor units Ground floor unitsGround floor units are important for seniors because they provide easy accessibility, reduced risk of falls and injuries, and convenience for those with mobility issues. Seniors can avoid climbing stairs or using elevators, making daily tasks and activities more manageable and enjoyable.
  • Handicap accessible Handicap accessible"Handicap accessible" amenities are crucial for seniors to ensure they can easily navigate and access facilities, services, and activities without barriers or limitations due to physical impairments. This promotes independence, safety, and inclusivity for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Indoor common areas Indoor common areasIndoor common areas are crucial for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, recreation, and community engagement, promoting overall well-being and reducing feelings of isolation and loneliness.
  • Kitchenette KitchenetteKitchenettes are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide the convenience and independence of being able to prepare simple meals and snacks in the comfort of their own living space. This can help promote a sense of autonomy and well-being for seniors, allowing them to maintain some level of control over their dietary choices and daily routines.
  • Outdoor common areas Outdoor common areasOutdoor common areas are important for seniors as they provide a space for socialization, physical activity, and relaxation. Being outside in nature can improve mood and overall well-being, while also encouraging movement and engagement with others. These spaces can help combat feelings of isolation and promote a sense of community among residents.
  • Private patio, deck, or balcony Private patio, deck, or balconyHaving a private patio, deck, or balcony is crucial for seniors living in a retirement community as it provides them with access to fresh air, natural light, and the outdoors without having to leave their home. This outdoor space can promote physical activity, mental well-being, and socialization opportunities for seniors, contributing to an overall improved quality of life.
  • Wheelchair accessible showers Wheelchair accessible showersWheelchair accessible showers are crucial for seniors as they provide a safe and independent bathing option for those with mobility challenges. These showers help prevent falls and allow seniors to maintain their dignity and autonomy while ensuring they can bathe comfortably.
  • Wi-Fi/high-speed internet available Wi-Fi/high-speed internet availableWi-Fi/high-speed internet is important for seniors to stay connected with loved ones, access online resources, and participate in virtual activities to combat feelings of loneliness and isolation. It also allows them to easily manage healthcare needs, access entertainment, and engage in lifelong learning opportunities.

Transportation

  • Columbia Metropolitan (6 miles away) Columbia Metropolitan (6 miles away)

Care Services

  • Diabetic care Diabetic careDiabetic care is crucial for seniors as they are more susceptible to developing diabetes due to aging and other health conditions. Proper management of diabetes can help prevent complications such as heart disease, vision loss, and nerve damage, improving the overall quality of life for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Incontinence care Incontinence careIncontinence care is essential for seniors to maintain their dignity, hygiene, and overall quality of life. By addressing incontinence issues promptly and effectively, seniors can enjoy a sense of independence and comfort in their daily activities.
  • Medication management Medication managementMedication management is crucial for seniors to ensure they are taking the right medications at the correct dosages and times. This helps prevent adverse drug interactions, reduces the risk of medication errors, and promotes overall health and well-being. Proactive management also allows for adjustments as needed based on changing health conditions or new prescriptions.

Dining

  • Anytime dining Anytime diningAnytime dining is important for seniors because it allows them the flexibility to eat when they are hungry, rather than being restricted to set meal times. This can be especially beneficial for those with medical conditions or medications that affect their appetite, as well as those who may have difficulty adhering to a strict dining schedule. Overall, anytime dining promotes independence and overall well-being for seniors in senior living communities.
  • Guest meals Guest mealsGuest meals are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide an opportunity for socialization and companionship. Sharing a meal with friends, family, or new acquaintances can help combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, promote a sense of community, and enhance overall well-being. Additionally, guest meals allow seniors to enjoy delicious food in a comfortable setting without the hassle of cooking or cleaning up, making dining a pleasurable and stress-free experience.
  • International cuisine International cuisineInternational cuisine is important for seniors because it offers a variety of flavors, ingredients, and cultural experiences that can help keep their meals interesting and enjoyable. Trying new dishes can also stimulate the senses and provide different nutrients that contribute to overall health and well-being. Additionally, exploring international cuisine can bring back fond memories of travels or childhood experiences, making mealtime more nostalgic and fulfilling for seniors.
  • Meals provided Meals provided"Meals provided" are crucial for seniors in assisted living communities as it ensures they have access to nutritious, balanced meals without the stress of meal planning and preparation. This can help promote overall health and well-being for seniors who may have limited mobility or cognitive abilities.
  • Professional chef Professional chefProfessional chefs are important for seniors living in senior living communities because they provide nutritious and delicious meals that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. A professional chef can ensure that seniors are receiving balanced, flavorful meals that support their overall health and well-being.
  • Restaurant style dining Restaurant style diningRestaurant style dining is important for seniors as it offers them a social and enjoyable dining experience, promotes healthy eating habits, and provides personalized menu options to cater to their dietary needs and preferences. This type of dining setting can enhance their overall quality of life and create a sense of community within the senior living facility.
  • Room service Room serviceRoom service is important for seniors in a senior living community because it provides convenience and allows them to have their meals delivered directly to their room. This can be especially beneficial for seniors who may have mobility issues or difficulty accessing the dining area. Room service ensures that seniors are able to receive nutritious meals without having to navigate through the facility, allowing them to maintain their independence and overall well-being.
  • Vegetarian VegetarianA vegetarian diet is important for seniors because it can help lower the risk of chronic diseases, maintain a healthy weight, and provide essential nutrients needed for aging bodies. Additionally, plant-based diets are often easier on digestive systems and can contribute to overall well-being in older adults.

Activities

  • Art classes Art classesArt classes are important for seniors because they provide a creative outlet, improve cognitive function, reduce stress and anxiety, promote socialization, and enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
  • Catholic services Catholic servicesCatholic services are important for seniors because they provide spiritual support, a sense of community, and opportunities for social interaction that can enhance overall well-being and quality of life in their later years.
  • Cooking classes Cooking classesCooking classes are important for seniors as they provide opportunities for social interaction, enhance cognitive skills, promote healthy eating habits, and boost confidence in the kitchen.
  • Devotional activities offsite Devotional activities offsiteDevotional activities offsite are important for seniors because they provide social engagement, spiritual growth, and a sense of community outside of their living environment. This can improve overall well-being, mental health, and combat feelings of isolation or loneliness.
  • Devotional activities on-site Devotional activities on-siteDevotional activities on-site provide seniors with a sense of community, spiritual fulfillment, and emotional support, promoting overall well-being and a positive sense of purpose in their lives.
  • Educational speakers / life long learning Educational speakers / life long learningEducational speakers and lifelong learning opportunities are crucial for seniors as they provide mental stimulation, promote social engagement, and contribute to overall well-being. Continuous learning helps seniors stay mentally sharp, build new skills, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their lives. It also allows them to stay connected to the world around them and fosters a sense of community within senior living facilities.
  • Jewish services Jewish servicesJewish services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual support, and connection to their heritage and traditions. These services help enhance overall well-being and quality of life for older adults in senior living settings.
  • Mormon/LDS services Mormon/LDS servicesMormon/LDS services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual support, and connection to their faith during their later years. These services offer opportunities for socialization, worship, and guidance in navigating the challenges of aging.
  • Other religious services Other religious servicesOther religious services are important for seniors as they provide a sense of community, spiritual comfort, and opportunities for socializing. These services can help seniors feel connected to their faith and maintain a sense of purpose and belonging in their later years.
  • Protestant services Protestant servicesProtestant services are important for seniors because they provide spiritual nourishment, community support, and a sense of belonging. These services can help seniors connect with others who share their faith, find comfort and guidance in times of need, and maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment in their later years.
  • Visiting chaplain or priest Visiting chaplain or priestHaving a visiting chaplain or priest at a senior living community is important for seniors because it provides spiritual support, comfort, and guidance during a time of life that can be challenging and uncertain. Their presence can help seniors feel connected to their faith, find peace of mind, and cope with the emotional and mental struggles they may face in their later years.

Description

Merrill Gardens at Columbia in Columbia, SC is an independent living community that offers a range of amenities and care services to meet the needs of its residents. The community provides a comfortable and luxurious environment with air-conditioning and both indoor and outdoor common areas for socializing and relaxation. Each resident has their own private patio, deck, or balcony to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

The community offers a variety of activities on-site to keep residents engaged and entertained. These include cooking classes, educational speakers, and devotional activities. Additionally, off-site devotional services are available for those who prefer to attend religious services outside the community.

Merrill Gardens at Columbia also prioritizes the health and well-being of its residents by offering medication management and incontinence care services. There is a beautician on-site to ensure that residents can maintain their personal grooming and appearance.

Dining at Merrill Gardens at Columbia is a delight with meals provided by a professional chef in a restaurant-style setting. The menu includes international cuisine as well as vegetarian options, ensuring that everyone's dietary preferences are taken into consideration. Guests are welcome to join residents for meals, and room service is available for those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own apartment.

The community's location is convenient with various amenities nearby including cafes, parks, pharmacies, physicians' offices, restaurants, transportation options, places of worship, and hospitals. This makes it easy for residents to access the services they need.

Overall, Merrill Gardens at Columbia offers a vibrant and caring assisted living community where residents can enjoy an active lifestyle while receiving the support they need to live comfortably and independently.

Nearby Places of Interest

This part of Columbia, South Carolina, offers a convenient and bustling urban setting with easy access to essential amenities for senior living. With multiple pharmacies in close proximity, medical care is readily available. There are also several cafes and restaurants within walking distance, providing options for dining out or enjoying a cup of coffee. Nearby parks and riverwalks offer opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. Additionally, there are reputable physicians' offices in the area for specialized medical care. For those seeking spiritual fulfillment, places of worship are within a short distance. Overall, this neighborhood provides a well-rounded environment for seniors looking to reside in a vibrant community.

Pharmacies

  • CVS Pharmacy (0.1 miles)
  • Palmeto Senior Care: John D Marsh (0.8 miles)
  • Walgreens (0.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.6 miles)
  • Hawthorne Pharmacy (1.7 miles)
  • Judy, Andrea (1.8 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (1.9 miles)

Cafes

  • Sweetwaters Coffee & Tea Park St (0.2 miles)
  • The Corner Blend (0.4 miles)
  • Drip (0.9 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.3 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.7 miles)
  • Piecewise Coffee (1.9 miles)

Restaurants

  • PT's 1109 (0.2 miles)
  • The Whig (0.2 miles)
  • Bourbon (0.3 miles)
  • Cola's (0.3 miles)
  • Motor Supply Co Bistro (0.3 miles)
  • Domino's Pizza (0.3 miles)
  • Cantina 76 on Main (0.3 miles)

Transportation

  • Enterprise Rent-A-Car (0.4 miles)

Physicians

  • Palmetto Obgyn Associates (0.6 miles)
  • Pediatrix Medical Group (0.6 miles)
  • South Carolina Obstetrical and Gynecological Society (0.6 miles)
  • Greater Columbia Obgyn (0.6 miles)
  • Parks III William Dr Critical Health Systems Of South Carolina Columbia (0.6 miles)
  • Palmetto Pulmonary (0.6 miles)
  • Eau Claire Cooperative Health Centers (1 miles)

Parks

  • Columbia Canal & Riverfront Park (1.1 miles)
  • West Columbia Riverwalk (1.2 miles)
  • Hollywood Park (1.3 miles)
  • Saluda Riverwalk (3.1 miles)

Hospitals

  • Sleep Med (1.5 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Joseph's Catholic Church (2.4 miles)
  • Good Shepherd Lutheran Church (3.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

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