The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community in Spokane, WA
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1216 North Superior Street, Spokane, WA 99202
For more information about senior living options: (844) 490-3973
The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community offers competitive pricing for various room types, demonstrating a significant cost advantage compared to both Spokane County and the broader state of Washington. For instance, a studio at The Academy is priced at $1,995 per month, substantially lower than the county's average of $3,609 and the state average of $4,126. Similarly, one-bedroom apartments are available for $2,095, in contrast to Spokane County's $3,852 and Washington's $4,632. Even for two-bedroom units, The Academy remains an attractive option at $2,595 while the local county rate stands at $3,350 and the state rate reaches $4,301. This pricing structure highlights The Academy as a desirable choice for those seeking quality living arrangements without the high costs typically associated with senior housing in the region.
| Floor plans | The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community | Spokane County | Washington |
|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $1,995 | $3,609 | $4,128 |
| 1 Bedroom | $2,095 | $3,852 | $4,634 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $2,595 | $3,350 | $4,301 |
The Academy, A Merrill Gardens Community, is best suited for seniors who want a historic, highly spirited address in the heart of the University District, with ready access to Gonzaga, WSU, parks, and walkable amenities. It works especially well for residents who value a stylish blend of old-world charm and modern conveniences, plus a vibrant social scene centered around a campus-adjacent neighborhood. Those who want the comfort of independent living with optional care in a community that feels connected, engaged, and well managed will find a strong fit here. The package is less ideal for someone prioritizing maximum quiet, expansive floor plans, or the deepest, most intensive assisted living services in a stand-alone campus setting. In other words, this is a lively, walkable, amenity-rich option for active seniors who don’t mind proximity to student life.
On the upside, the core strengths at The Academy cluster around exceptional management and a robust array of amenities. Senior residents repeatedly praise a responsive, personable management team, names like Carissa, Joel, Loren, Brielle, and Ren appear as standout contacts who are helpful, accessible, and genuinely invested in resident well-being. Maintenance is cited as timely and courteous, with an environment that remains clean and well kept. The historic building has been tastefully complemented by modern touches, including high-end finishes, stainless appliances, and smart thermostats, while common areas offer a fitness center, game room with a projector, a full kitchen for gatherings, and pleasant outdoor spaces. The location, near Gonzaga and a pleasant park, to the right person, means easy social opportunities, spontaneous visits, and a sense of belonging rather than institutional blandness. Meals and activities are designed to support an active daily rhythm, and residents note the abundance of open, flexible dining and a steady calendar of events.
Yet the reviews do not shy away from meaningful drawbacks. Several residents caution that the campus atmosphere can be noisy, given the nearby student population and ongoing campus activity, with some reports of barking dogs in the building on weekends that disrupt quiet for nearby units. The building’s age comes through in practical realities: one elevator system is sometimes slow and unreliable, and parking can be a challenge when events spill into the lot. Space can feel tight in some units, particularly when considering price, with critiques focusing on studio layouts and the sense that the space-to-cost ratio is not ideal for every budget. A few tours mention odor or musty notes in certain common areas or older dining spaces, though dining itself is described positively by many. There are also shadow cast by historical controversy in ownership changes years ago, which may influence perceptions among prospective residents and their families.
Despite those cons, the positives often offset them in practical, decision-focused ways. For families seeking a well-supported community with proactive, accessible leadership and an enthusiastic approach to resident engagement, The Academy’s governance is a decisive advantage. The ability to scale care needs within the same campus, while maintaining independent living options and clearly separated assisted living areas, reduces the disruption of transitions and provides a predictable care continuum. The “anytime dining” ethos and a diverse menu are meaningful conveniences for residents who dislike being locked into rigid meal windows, while abundant activities and on-site amenities encourage socialization, exercise, and meaningful routines. For families, the combination of a walkable location, strong staff availability, and a handsome, well-maintained property makes the trade-offs more palatable, especially when a loved one values a lively, connected lifestyle over absolute quiet and maximum square footage.
There are clear cases where alternatives deserve careful consideration. If the priority is serenity and absolute quiet, or if a resident requires larger, more open living spaces for long-term comfort, other communities with newer construction or a design focused on generous floor plans may be a wiser fit. If the strongest emphasis is on a completely self-contained, campus-style AL with a higher staff-to-resident ratio and fewer neighborhood distractions, look beyond the historic Washington landmark to options that emphasize calm, privacy, and more intensive medical support under one roof. For budget-conscious families, the price-to-space dynamic here can be a sticking point; other options may offer more square footage for roughly the same monthly outlay. In short, the Academy shines for a certain kind of active senior who wants a stylish, social, highly managed environment near downtown Spokane; those who want maximum quiet, larger apartments, or deeper medical specialization should not hesitate to compare other communities.
The bottom line is practical and clear: The Academy stands out as a distinctive, well-managed, amenity-rich choice for active seniors who prize place, personality, and access to campus life. It excels for families who value responsive leadership, tasteful renovations, and a lively community that regularly translates into tangible comfort and security for a loved one. Prospective movers should target tours with a focus on management accessibility, current elevator reliability, and actual unit sizes in their preferred floor plan, while also assessing how important proximity to universities and a park setting is to the resident’s daily rhythm. If those factors align, The Academy can be a premier choice; if quiet seclusion and expansive living space trump all else, it makes sense to broaden the search and compare a broader range of options before committing.
The Academy is a Merrill Gardens Community located in Spokane, WA, offering a range of care services including Independent Living, Memory Care, and Respite Care. Our community is designed to provide a comfortable and supportive environment for seniors looking for assistance with daily activities or specialized memory care.
Residents at The Academy can enjoy a variety of amenities that contribute to their well-being and quality of life. There are numerous on-site activities available to keep residents active and engaged, along with air-conditioning to ensure comfort during all seasons. A beautician is available on-site at our beauty salon for their convenience. Cable or satellite TV is provided in each unit, allowing residents to relax and enjoy their favorite shows. Devotional services are available on-site for those who wish to practice their faith.
Dining at The Academy is a delightful experience with restaurant-style dining offered in our spacious dining room. A professional chef prepares delicious meals that cater to various dietary needs including diabetes diet and gluten-free options. For those with special dietary restrictions such as vegetarian or vegan preferences, we offer customized meal options. Guest meals are also available for family and friends who visit.
We believe in providing holistic care, which includes physical wellness as well as mental well-being. Our community features indoor common areas where residents can socialize and connect with others. There is also a small library for avid readers to indulge in their favorite books. Wi-Fi/high-speed internet ensures connectivity so residents can stay connected with loved ones through online platforms.
The Academy offers exceptional care services tailored to meet the individual needs of each resident. We have 24-hour call systems in place along with 24-hour supervision to ensure safety and support round-the-clock. Our highly skilled staff assists residents with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, and transfers when needed. Medication management is provided along with specialized memory care programming for those facing cognitive challenges.
A variety of engaging activities are organized regularly at The Academy to promote social interaction and overall well-being. Residents can participate in Bible study groups, educational speakers, cooking classes, and even day trips and outings to explore the local community. Live dance or theater performances and musical concerts are scheduled for their entertainment. We also offer resident-run activities where residents can take charge and organize events they enjoy.
The Academy enjoys a convenient location with several amenities nearby. There are five cafes, four parks, ten pharmacies, 45 physicians, 28 restaurants, one transportation service, and seven hospitals in close proximity to our community.
At The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community, we provide a warm and caring environment where seniors can thrive physically, mentally, and socially. Our commitment is to ensure that each resident receives the highest quality of care while maintaining their independence and dignity.
This part of Spokane, Washington offers a variety of amenities within close proximity, making it a convenient and desirable location for senior living. With several restaurants ranging from fast food options like Sonic Drive-In to more upscale choices like Chili's Grill & Bar, there are plenty of dining options to choose from. The presence of pharmacies such as Yoke's Pharmacy and medical facilities like Yakima Valley Farm Workers Clinic and Cancer Care Northwest ensures easy access to healthcare services. Additionally, the nearby parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation. The availability of public transportation through the Spokane Transit Authority Sta offers convenience for seniors looking to travel around the city. Overall, this area boasts a combination of essential services and recreational opportunities that make it an attractive choice for senior living in Spokane.
The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community offers competitive pricing for various room types, demonstrating a significant cost advantage compared to both Spokane County and the broader state of Washington. For instance, a studio at The Academy is priced at $1,995 per month, substantially lower than the county's average of $3,609 and the state average of $4,126. Similarly, one-bedroom apartments are available for $2,095, in contrast to Spokane County's $3,852 and Washington's $4,632. Even for two-bedroom units, The Academy remains an attractive option at $2,595 while the local county rate stands at $3,350 and the state rate reaches $4,301. This pricing structure highlights The Academy as a desirable choice for those seeking quality living arrangements without the high costs typically associated with senior housing in the region.
The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community is located at 1216 North Superior Street, Spokane, WA 99202 in Spokane County, Washington
The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community offers an array of features designed to support residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease, ensuring their safety and enhancing their quality of life. With 24-hour supervision, residents benefit from constant monitoring that provides peace of mind for both them and their families. Assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing, allows individuals to maintain dignity while receiving the necessary support tailored to their needs. Incontinence care ensures comfort and hygiene, while meal preparation and service focus on nutrition, accommodating dietary restrictions and preferences. Medication management is crucial in maintaining health and adhering to prescribed regimens. The mental wellness program and specialized memory care programming foster cognitive engagement through structured activities that are sensitive to varying levels of cognitive impairment. This comprehensive approach creates a nurturing environment that respects individual abilities while promoting independence wherever possible.
Yes, The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community allows both dogs and cats.
The Academy - A Merrill Gardens Community on seniors.fyi includes 7 photos including images showing trees, building, architecture, brick, dining, interior, landscaping, pathway, and more.
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