Truewood by Merrill, Pinole sits on Appian Way in Contra Costa County, right in the Pinole Hills area where you'll find lots of regional parks, gardens, and even some golf ranges nearby, and the building itself is a three-story community made for independent senior living, though there are also options for assisted living and memory care if residents need extra help. People who live here can choose from pet-friendly studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom homes, with spaces ranging from 390 square feet up to 857 square feet, and most units have kitchenettes, plenty of natural light, and access to both indoor and outdoor common areas, which gives everyone some space to relax and socialize or spend quiet time. The common rooms feel inviting, with comfortable couches, a lobby that fills with natural light, a lounge, and a dining room that has high ceilings, chandeliers, and well-set tables, plus there's a computer room, guest parking, a TV area, and even a beautician and barber on-site for those who like to keep up with their grooming without having to go out.
Residents who don't want to cook can enjoy three meals each day served in the dining room, and staff work to make sure the meals are healthy and match dietary needs, which helps folks who want to stay well without a fuss. Housekeeping and maintenance staff help keep everything clean and in good repair, and there's wifi and cable connections in the resident units for entertainment and staying in touch with family or friends. The staff seem friendly and helpful, always ready to assist when needed, whether that means helping with medication, personal care, getting to the dining room, or arranging transportation for medical appointments or shopping, and transportation is complimentary for residents, so getting around Pinole is easier, even if driving isn't an option anymore.
Truewood by Merrill, Pinole offers a lot of activities, both inside and out-arts and crafts, games, exercise classes like yoga, Tai Chi and stretching, music programs, social gatherings, movies, devotional services, and regular outings to restaurants, shops, or local attractions like San Francisco Bay and Hilltop Mall, which helps people stay active and involved in the community. The community has won a few awards for its dining and activities, and there's a focus on keeping residents engaged mentally, physically, and socially, including a "Cheers to a Vibrant Lifestyle" program that many seem to enjoy. The place is pet-friendly, which matters to a lot of people, and there's a garden if folks want to spend time outside.
Assisted living and memory care services are also available for those who need them, with programs designed to help people with daily tasks and prevent confusion or wandering, especially for those dealing with dementia. Medical staff are available if needed, though most health care comes from outside providers, and the facility is wheelchair accessible with showers and resident parking. There are separate designations for male-only or female-only residents for those who want that option, which adds to the sense of safety and comfort. Truewood by Merrill, Pinole keeps the atmosphere warm and inviting, with a mix of modern design and home-like touches, and being part of the Merrill Gardens group usually means there's some consistency in how things are run. The community aims to help seniors keep their independence while still having support when needed, and being close to nearby walking or biking trails, churches, local restaurants, and medical services like Kaiser Permanente makes things a bit easier for everyone living there.
