Truewood by Merrill, Fig Garden

Truewood by Merrill, Fig Garden sits in Fresno, California, surrounded by gardens, a koi pond, and even a Japanese tea house, and the place has a quiet, homey feeling, with ivy-covered walls and large comfortable rooms filled with soft lighting, mirrors, and big windows that look out on the lawns and flowers, while inside, you'll find sitting areas with armchairs, pianos, and bookshelves where folks gather for games or maybe just a good chat. The dining rooms have round tables, stone fireplaces, and a grand piano, with meals served that suit special diets like diabetic, low salt, low fat, and vegetarian, and if residents prefer, they can get room service or invite guests to join for a meal, plus snacks are available with tables set out for convenience. Apartments come as studios, one-, or two-bedroom units, many with patios, kitchenettes, and Wi-Fi or cable, so people can relax or entertain, and covered parking keeps cars out of the weather, while guests can park nearby too. For those who like to stay busy, staff organizes trips to places like galleries, wineries, gardens, casinos, and museums, while on-site, there are fitness classes, Tai Chi, arts and crafts, literary and music events, and programs with local professors, doctors, and others who come in to share their knowledge. Residents can take part in gardening, tabletop games, golf, walking hikes, or just sit quietly by the garden, and folks with pets, including small dogs, have a place here but need to handle their own pet care. Housekeeping, laundry, and linen services are available, and maintenance is taken care of, so people don't have to worry about chores, and for those who need extra help, assisted living services give support for things like dressing or medications, and memory care is there for folks with dementia or Alzheimer's. The staff goes through background and driving checks, and there's a focus on ethical care. Religious services are held on-site, and medical help, including in-home health care and skilled nursing, is available if needed, along with mobility and wheelchair help. Computer rooms, library spaces, and activities mean people can stay as connected or as private as they like, while the Seniors Serving Seniors international program gives a chance for residents to help each other out. Being part of Holiday Retirement, Truewood by Merrill, Fig Garden lets residents travel and stay at other communities across North America, and the community accepts checks and credit cards but not Medicaid, with an entry fee of $2,485 and an all-inclusive rent option so that costs are predictable. It's close to Forestiere Underground Gardens, Fresno Chaffee Zoo, Saint Agnes Medical Center, River Park shopping, Fig Garden Regional Library, and restaurants like Ovidio Italian, making it convenient while still keeping the feeling of a peaceful retreat.

Truewood by Merrill, Fig Garden is managed by Merrill Gardens.

Founded in 1993 with a single community in Seattle, Merrill Gardens has grown into one of the nation's most respected senior living providers, operating 65 communities across 17 states. As a fifth-generation family-owned company with roots extending back to the 1890s, Merrill Gardens is headquartered in Seattle, Washington, and maintains the values of integrity, compassion, and excellence that have defined the Merrill family for generations. The company has expanded strategically through both organic growth and selective acquisitions, recently adding five new communities in 2024 including locations in South Carolina, Missouri, and Oregon, while maintaining its commitment to quality over quantity in expansion decisions.

Merrill Gardens offers a comprehensive continuum of senior living services including independent living, assisted living, and specialized memory care programs. Their innovative Anytime Dining program provides restaurant-style meals seven days a week, while their assisted living services include personalized care plans covering bathing, dressing, medication management, and safety checks. The company's memory care communities utilize a Montessori approach designed specifically for residents with Alzheimer's and dementia, creating environments that promote independence and well-being. Through their Inspire Connection program, Merrill Gardens focuses on connection and community, ensuring residents can engage in meaningful activities that bring a sense of belonging and purpose to their daily lives.

The company's philosophy centers on their "Yes You Can" mentality, believing that life should be defined by possibilities rather than limitations. Merrill Gardens emphasizes person-centered care that celebrates each resident as a whole person, honoring their individuality and supporting their ability to make their own decisions. As innovators in the industry, they invest in technology and data-driven operations to enhance resident care while maintaining the personal touch that comes from their family-owned heritage. Their approach focuses on treating residents like family, with staff who are passionate about senior care rather than simply collecting a paycheck, creating environments where residents can live their fullest lives.

Merrill Gardens has earned significant recognition for their excellence, including being ranked #6 in the nation by Fortune Magazine as a Best Workplace in Aging Services and receiving Great Place to Work certification for three consecutive years. The company has been honored as Family Business of the Year by both the Puget Sound Business Journal and Seattle Business Magazine, recognizing their longevity, community commitment, and long-term vision. With over 2,500 reviews averaging 4.4 out of 5 stars, multiple communities have received Best of Senior Living Awards, demonstrating their consistent delivery of high-quality care and services. Their commitment to innovation and excellence has established Merrill Gardens as a leader in the senior living industry, with a satisfaction guarantee that reflects their confidence in providing exceptional lifestyle experiences for seniors and their families.