Merrill Gardens at Ballard
Families consistently rate this highly — reviewers highlight warm, welcoming, and supportive staff. Schedule a visit to confirm the fit.
based on 31 Google reviews
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What this means for your family
Merrill Gardens at Ballard is an excellent choice for families seeking a vibrant, socially active environment with a highly professional staff. While the facility is exceptionally well-regarded, families should clarify the garage access procedures during the move-in process to avoid the minor frustrations noted by some residents.
Google Reviews
Google Reviews
31 reviews on Google“Merrill Gardens at Ballard is highly regarded for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and professional, attentive staff who prioritize resident well-being. Families frequently praise the facility's beautiful design, active social calendar, and the genuine care shown by management, though some minor logistical frustrations regarding building access have been noted.”
Quality Themes
Tap a score for detailsStrengths
- Warm, welcoming, and supportive staff
- Active social calendar and engaging activities
- Beautiful, clean, and well-maintained facility
- Flexible 'anytime' dining options
- Transparent and helpful community relations team
Concerns
- Difficulties with garage access and exit procedures (mentioned by 2 reviewers)
Rating Trends
Tap a year to see what changed
Distribution · 34 analyzed
How They Respond to Reviews
This facility actively engages with reviewer feedback.
Questions for Your Tour
- 1I noticed your team is very responsive to feedback online; how does that open communication style translate to how you keep families updated on their loved one's daily life?
- 2With the 'anytime' dining program, how do you ensure residents still get the social interaction of shared mealtimes if they choose to eat at different hours?
- 3What are some of the most popular activities on your current social calendar that help new residents feel welcomed and connected to the Ballard community?
- 4Could you walk us through the current process for garage access and visitor parking to ensure we understand the best way to navigate entry and exit during our visits?
- 5Given your size of 50 residents, how do you balance maintaining a close-knit, supportive environment with providing specialized medical care during an emergency?
- 6What specific steps does your staff take to ensure the facility stays as well-maintained and clean as residents and families have come to expect?
Personalized based on this facility's data
Key Review Excerpts
“The staff here genuinely cares about creating a vibrant, engaging community for all residents. The facility is immaculately maintained, from the beautifully landscaped grounds to the spotless common areas.”
“He sends me photos of all the tasty meals he eats and he signs up for almost every activity. He’s socializing in weekly domino games, nightly movie nights, and Friday happy hours.”
“Ian Mackenzie, the Community Relations Director, was so welcoming, and obviously well liked there. He answered our endless questions, and my mom's apartment was in great shape when we moved her in.”
State Inspection History
State Inspections
Source: WA Dept. of Social & Health Services
Mar 12, 2026FireCleanReport
Facility status is Approved; all violations noted during previous related inspection(s) have been corrected.
Mar 20, 2025InspectionCleanReport
The Department completed a full inspection and found no deficiencies.
Sep 26, 2023Inspection
There is also a consultation note regarding WAC 388-78A-2950 (Water supply) for failing to maintain hot water temperatures between 105°F and 120°F.
Failed to evaluate and monitor Resident 4 following two unwitnessed falls with head injuries.
Vent in third-floor refuse room was not functional, causing odor issues.
Failed to define roles, responsibilities, or alternate plans for Resident 3 (BS monitoring) and Resident 4 (private caregiver duties).
Failed to maintain cold holding food temperatures at 41°F or below; several items measured between 48°F and 68°F.
Refuse area had overflowing bins, rust-colored water on the floor, and an overwhelming odor.
Contact
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References & Resources
Google Maps
Photos, directions & neighborhood info
Google Reviews
31 reviews from families & visitors
Official Website
Visit merrillgardens.com
Medicare data downloads
Original nursing home datasets
WA DSHS — View Official Record
Public-record source of inspection history and licensure data shown on this page
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