Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville

Save

  • Interior

    A cozy living room with a fireplace and comfortable seating.
  • Outdoors

    A sunny garden with a gazebo and surrounding buildings.
  • Decor

    A restaurant reception area featuring a chalkboard with a welcoming message and decorative elements.
  • Living Room

    A cozy living room with a large sofa, chairs, bookshelves, and a television.
  • Building

    An empty hallway in a building with handrails and decorations on the walls.
  • Bedroom

    A minimalistic hospital room with a single bed and a potted plant.
  • Dining

    An empty dining area with tables covered in red tablecloths.
  • Lighting

    A cozy waiting room with comfortable seating, decorative elements, and warm lighting.
  • Exercise Equipment

    A rehabilitation room equipped with parallel bars, a therapy bed, and other exercise equipment.
  • Salon

    A cozy hair salon setup with a styling chair, mirror, and hairdryer.

Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville

Information last verified:

8800 Virginia Place, Merrillville, IN 46410

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

2.2 from 40 reviews
5 stars
5
4 stars
9
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 stars
25

Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville Costs & Pricing

Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville offers a range of room types with costs that reflect both the facility's quality and the broader economic context of Lake County and Indiana. For a semi-private room, residents can expect to pay $5,230 per month, which is significantly higher than the county average of $4,155 and notably above the state average of $3,739. The studio option is priced at $5,380, again surpassing local ($3,986) and state ($3,258) averages. Those seeking more privacy will find the private room available for $6,095 per month; this is competitive with Lake County's average of $4,029 but exceeds Indiana's overall average of $4,418. These figures suggest that while Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville may come at a premium compared to its surroundings, it likely emphasizes enhanced care services and amenities that justify the investment for families considering long-term care options.

Floor plansGolden LivingCenter - MerrillvilleLake CountyIndiana
Semi-Private$5,230$4,155$3,739
Studio$5,380$3,986$3,258
Private$6,095$4,029$4,418

Overall Review of Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville

Pros

  • pro Golden Living is described as a strong option for long-term dementia care, with remarkable nursing, social workers, and management.
  • pro The staff are praised as caring, attentive, and patient, making residents feel well cared for.
  • pro New management and renovations have improved the facility, bringing a friendlier atmosphere and better care.
  • pro Housekeeping and the overall staffing are described as amazing, polite, and helpful.
  • pro The facility offers dementia-specific units and hospice, reflecting a patient-care driven approach.
  • pro Kitchen and other staff are noted as friendly and dedicated to residents.
  • pro Families express gratitude for the care and often recommend the facility.

Cons

  • pro They describe the facility as hell and a horrible place with poor living standards.
  • pro They report unprofessional, rude, and unhelpful staff who are quick to blame others.
  • pro They claim care is unsafe and disorganized, with little to no effective therapy.
  • pro They say medications and meals are frequently delayed or omitted.
  • pro They allege neglect, with residents left in bed, not washed, and not moved.
  • pro They state the building is dirty, with strong odors and poor hygiene.
  • pro They claim management lies to fill rooms and prioritizes profits over care.
  • pro They report high staff turnover and harassment when concerns are raised.
  • pro They warn others not to send loved ones there.
  • pro They accuse nurses of being distracted (on phones) and ignoring patients.
  • pro They describe residents as being treated like cattle and not cared for with dignity.
  • pro They mention potential lawsuits and say the place might be shut down.

Review

Golden LivingCenter Merrillville is best suited for families that can commit to vigilant oversight and view long-term dementia care with active family involvement as a core expectation. This community can work for loved ones who benefit from true 24-hour visitation and are willing to engage with staff, management, and care plans to navigate a system that has shown both progress and serious gaps. It is not a fit for those whose priority is consistently high-quality rehab, abrupt med management, or pristine cleanliness without ongoing advocacy. In short, it rewards transparency, persistent communication, and a willingness to address problems head-on rather than passively relying on a facility’s routine.

On the plus side, several reviewers point to signs of improvement under new leadership and renovations, plus meaningful capabilities in memory-care programming. There are mentions of dedicated dementia units, improved meal options, and a management team that is actively pursuing enhancements. A handful of families report compassionate nursing and CNAs, supportive admissions staff, and engaging activities such as live entertainment that residents respond to. The facility’s structure also offers around-the-clock visitation and some staff who seem genuinely invested in residents’ well-being, which can be meaningful for families seeking connection and oversight.

Yet the overwhelmingly dominant theme in the reviews is risk: significant concerns about safety, cleanliness, and reliability of care. Widespread reports describe understaffing, turnover, and unprofessional or unresponsive behavior from aides, nurses, and management. Medication timing and administration appear inconsistent, with repeated anecdotes of delayed or missed doses, dehydration, and poor pain management. Hygiene and laundry problems recur, including dirty rooms and unclean bedding, odors, and questions about whether residents are being washed or checked as needed. These patterns create tangible safety risks, especially for residents with mobility limits, post-acute needs, or dementia.

That gap between the occasional positive note and the persistent negative experiences means the pros cannot fully offset the cons at this time. The improvement narrative under new leadership is encouraging, but it remains uncertain whether such gains are durable across shifts, units, and all disciplines of care. For families with the capacity to supervise closely, visiting at varied times, requesting direct reports from CNA teams, and insisting on consistent medication rounds, the potential upside can feel real. For others, the risk of inconsistent care, infection exposure, or delayed treatments may tip the balance toward seeking alternatives that offer steadier staffing, clearer accountability, and cleaner environments.

Families weighing options should conduct rigorous, multi-visit due diligence. Schedule daytime and evening tours, speak with current residents and multiple family members, and request to meet the director and the head of nursing. Inquire specifically about staffing ratios by shift, how med passes are tracked, and what the facility’s action plan is for any missed treatments or cleanliness concerns. Inspect a memory-care unit specifically, assess how resident dignity is preserved during care activities, and verify whether there is a documented quality-improvement program with measurable targets. If this facility is considered, insist on transparent, frequent updates and a clear escalation path.

In the end, Golden LivingCenter Merrillville presents a high-variance proposition. It is a potential home for dementia-affected seniors when aligned with robust family oversight and a clearly demonstrated commitment to sustained improvement. However, for families prioritizing consistent rehab outcomes, impeccable cleanliness, and uniformly compassionate staffing without continual vigilance, alternatives are strongly advisable. The decision should hinge on the degree of assurance that ongoing management changes have translated into reliable, day-to-day quality of care across all residents, not just isolated success stories.

Features

Types of Care

  • Memory Care Memory CareMemory care is crucial for seniors as it provides specialized support and services for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These programs offer a safe and secure environment where residents receive personalized care, cognitive stimulation, and help with daily activities. Memory care helps seniors maintain their independence, quality of life, and dignity while also providing peace of mind for their families.
  • Skilled Nursing Facility Skilled Nursing FacilitySkilled Nursing Facilities are crucial for seniors as they provide round-the-clock medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with daily activities. These facilities ensure that seniors receive the specialized care they need to maintain their health and well-being as they age.

Amenities

  • Private PrivatePrivacy is important for seniors as it allows them to maintain their independence, dignity, and sense of control over their own lives. It also gives them the space and freedom to relax, reflect, and engage in activities that bring them joy and fulfillment. Creating private spaces within senior living facilities is crucial for promoting overall well-being and quality of life.

Description

Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville in Merrillville, IN is a skilled nursing facility that provides top-notch care and support to seniors who require assistance with their daily activities. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals ensures that our residents receive personalized and compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment.

Situated in the heart of Merrillville, our community is surrounded by various amenities that cater to the needs and preferences of our residents. With three cafes nearby, our residents can enjoy a cup of coffee or a delicious meal with friends or family. Additionally, we have six pharmacies close by, making it convenient for us to provide prompt medication management services.

The health and well-being of our residents are paramount to us, which is why we have 22 physicians located nearby. These medical professionals are easily accessible and readily available to address any healthcare concerns or emergencies that may arise. Furthermore, our community is supported by six hospitals in the vicinity, ensuring that specialized medical care is just moments away when needed.

We understand the importance of maintaining an active social life for our residents, which is why 20 restaurants are situated close to our facility. Our residents can indulge in a variety of dining experiences, ranging from casual meals to fine dining options, all within easy reach. Moreover, there are two places of worship nearby where individuals can nourish their spiritual well-being.

At Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville, we strive to provide an exceptional assisted living experience by offering top-tier care along with access to numerous amenities in the surrounding area. We pride ourselves on creating a comfortable and secure environment where seniors can flourish and lead fulfilling lives with dignity and respect.

Nearby Places of Interest

Physicians

  • Alzeidan Medical (0.2 miles)
  • Midwest Orthotic Services (0.3 miles)
  • Reddy, Avinish Suresh Reddy Md Medical Group (0.4 miles)
  • Merrillville Health Center (0.4 miles)
  • Neurological Institute & Specialty Centers (0.5 miles)
  • William Forgey MD (0.5 miles)
  • Stevenson, Fairchild, & Surber OMS - Merrillville (0.7 miles)

Hospitals

  • Methodist Hospital Southlake Campus (0.3 miles)
  • Methodist Arthritis-Rheumatology Centers Southlake Campus (0.5 miles)
  • Methodist Hospitals (0.5 miles)
  • Vibra Hospital (0.8 miles)
  • Community Hospital MRI Center (4 miles)
  • Franciscan St Anthony Health (4.7 miles)
  • St Mary Medical Center Fifth Floor Cancer Ward (5.2 miles)

Places of Worship

  • St Sava Serbian Orthodox Church (0.7 miles)
  • St Matthias Church (5 miles)
  • Suncrest Christian Church (6.4 miles)
  • St George Greek Orthodox Church NW Indiana (7.3 miles)
  • St Mary Church (7.3 miles)

Restaurants

  • Pepe's Mexican Restaurant (0.8 miles)
  • Wu's House (0.9 miles)
  • Hooters (1 miles)
  • McAlister's Deli (1 miles)
  • Taste of India (1 miles)
  • Portillo's Hot Dogs (1 miles)
  • White Castle (1.1 miles)

Cafes

  • Panera Bread (1.1 miles)
  • Starbucks (1.1 miles)
  • Starbucks (2.3 miles)
  • Starbucks (7.5 miles)

Pharmacies

  • Walgreens (1.3 miles)
  • Walmart Pharmacy (1.9 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (2 miles)
  • Walgreens (2.5 miles)
  • Walgreens (4.1 miles)
  • CVS Pharmacy (4.6 miles)
  • Walgreens (5.2 miles)

Parks

  • Lemon Lake County Park (6.5 miles)
  • Redar Park (6.6 miles)
  • Festival Park (6.6 miles)
  • Central Park (7.5 miles)

Theaters

  • AMC Schererville 12 (8.2 miles)

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to live at Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville in Merrillville, IN?
Where is Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville?
Does Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville provide care for residents with dementia or Alzheimer's disease?
What photos are available for Golden LivingCenter - Merrillville in Merrillville, Indiana?

Nearby Communities

  • Belvedere Senior Housing

    Belvedere Senior Housing

    Merrillville, IN

    4.8 from 70 reviews
    $4,025 to $4,550 / month

    pro Clean, updated facility with a welcoming courtyard and helpful staff.

  • Spring Mill Health Campus

    Spring Mill Health Campus

    Merrillville, IN

    4.1 from 151 reviews
    $3,379 to $4,526 / month

    pro Clean facility with friendly, attentive staff and engaging activities.

  • Interim Healthcare Svc Inc-Merrillville,  IN

    Interim Healthcare Svc Inc-Merrillville, IN

    Merrillville, IN

     
     

    pro Excellent access to nearby healthcare, pharmacies, physicians, restaurants, and hospitals.

  • Lincolnshire Health & Rehabilitation Center

    Lincolnshire Health & Rehabilitation Center

    Merrillville, IN

    3.4 from 72 reviews
     

    pro Comprehensive 24/7 care with extensive on-site amenities (dining, fitness, beauty salon, transportation) in a vibrant Merrillville community.

  • Virginia Place

    Virginia Place

    Merrillville, IN

    4.4 from 88 reviews
    $2,948 to $3,283 / month

    pro Clean, homey atmosphere with friendly staff, engaging activities, and smooth move-in.

  • Life At Home Senior Care LLC

    Life At Home Senior Care LLC

    Merrilville, IN

    5 from 2 reviews
     

    pro Professional, respectful, and dedicated care from Barbara and her team.

  • Vita Luxury Apartments On Grant

    Vita Luxury Apartments On Grant

    Merrillville, IN

    3.8 from 89 reviews
    $1,080 to $1,250 / month

    pro Home-like community with active social life and friendly staff in a convenient location.

  • Right at Home of Northwest Indiana

    Right at Home of Northwest Indiana

    Merrillville, IN

    4.6 from 41 reviews
     

    pro Convenient access to amenities and nearby healthcare resources.

  • Bickford of Crown Point

    Bickford of Crown Point

    Crown Point, IN

    4.2 from 104 reviews
    $3,498 to $6,960 / month

    pro Intimate, home-like atmosphere with attentive staff, strong sense of community, and restaurant-style dining.

Related Resources

  • can you die from dementiaAre Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease Lethal? A Comprehensive Exploration

    Dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, is often mischaracterized in terms of lethality as it leads to complications that can be fatal rather than being a direct cause of death; it causes a progressive decline in cognitive and physical health, making patients vulnerable to infections and other health crises. Effective management of nutrition, hydration, and communication is crucial in patient care, with palliative care becoming vital in advanced stages to enhance comfort and quality of life while caregivers play a key role amidst the challenges posed by the disease.

  • reminiscence therapyExploring the Power of Reminiscence Therapy for Individuals With Dementia

    Reminiscence therapy helps individuals with dementia recall past memories through structured discussions and meaningful objects, enhancing mood, relationships, and sense of identity while celebrating their lives. It can be practiced in formal settings or at home, requiring sensitivity to personal histories and cultural backgrounds.

  • reminiscence therapyAn In-Depth Look at Reminiscence Therapy in Dementia Care

    Reminiscence therapy is a structured method for older adults, especially those with dementia, to share life stories using prompts and sensory cues, fostering emotional well-being, social engagement, and self-identity. It aims to improve quality of life by enhancing interpersonal connections and cognitive stimulation while requiring careful facilitation to avoid distressing memories.