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Amenities
Healthcare services
Activities of daily living assistance
Assistance with bathing
Assistance with dressing
Assistance with transfers
Coordination with health care providers
Hospice waiver
Medication management
Mental wellness program
Healthcare staffing
12-16 hour nursing
24-hour call system
24-hour supervision
Meals and dining
Diabetes diet
Meal preparation and service
Restaurant-style dining
Special dietary restrictions
Room
Air-conditioning
Cable
Fully furnished
Housekeeping and linen services
Kitchenettes
Private bathrooms
Telephone
Wifi
Memory care community services
Dementia waiver
Mild cognitive impairment
Specialized memory care programming
Transportation
Community operated transportation
Transportation arrangement
Transportation arrangement (medical)
Transportation arrangement (non-medical)
Transportation to doctors appointments
Common areas
Beauty salon
Computer center
Dining room
Fitness room
Gaming room
Garden
Outdoor space
Small library
Wellness center
Community services
Concierge services
Fitness programs
Move-in coordination
Activities
Community-sponsored activities
Planned day trips
Resident-run activities
Scheduled daily activities
Reviews
4.17·(124)
Overall rating
5
4
3
2
1
Care
3.8
Staff
4.2
Meals
3.5
Amenities
4.0
Value
2.5
Pros
Warm, respectful staff who build personal connections with residents
Compassionate, responsive support for residents and families
Clean, attractive, and generally well-maintained apartments and common areas
Spacious apartment options with kitchen amenities and accessible bathrooms
Engaging activities, outings, and social programs
Strong activity leadership and a welcoming community atmosphere
Attentive dining service and meals that many residents enjoy
Covered parking and a range of on-site amenities
Support across independent and assisted living, with a dedicated memory-care area
Cons
Staff turnover and periodic staffing shortages
Inconsistent care continuity, staff training, and service follow-through
Variable meal quality and limited menu variety
High costs and additional fees as care needs increase
Uneven activity staffing and limited evening programming
Limits on dementia placement and higher-acuity medical support
Communication and administrative follow-through gaps
Urban setting with limited walkable errands, traffic exposure, and challenging garage access
Some institutional-feeling interior areas and modest outdoor grounds
Summary of reviews
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen receives frequent praise for its friendly, respectful staff and the personal attention residents receive. Families describe staff who learn residents’ names, respond helpfully, and make move-ins and transitions easier. At the same time, experiences with care consistency are mixed. Repeated concerns include staff turnover, periods of short staffing, and the need for stronger onboarding and follow-through. Several families describe positive leadership or improvements after management changes, while others report that staffing and management changes affected service reliability. One family account raised concerns about elopement safeguards and delayed family notification after an overnight departure; prospective families may wish to ask specifically about supervision plans and emergency communication.
The community offers independent and assisted living, along with the Garden House memory-care area. Many residents and families report satisfaction with the support provided, but accounts also indicate that the community may not suit people needing intensive medical care or extensive hands-on assistance. Families considering dementia care should clarify placement criteria, how changing needs are assessed, and what services are included versus billed separately. Communication about care plans, medication coordination, and administrative tasks has also been inconsistent in some accounts.
Dining feedback varies considerably. Some residents and visitors praise the food, its nutritional quality, accommodating service, and attention to dietary needs. Others describe meals as repetitive or inconsistent in quality, temperature, and presentation, with limited choices at times. Activity offerings are often viewed as a strength: reviews mention creative programs, exercise classes, entertainment, outings, and an active social calendar. However, some families have seen programming reduced during staffing changes or have wanted more activities in memory care and during evenings.
The building is commonly described as clean, attractive, and well maintained, with bright apartments, multiple floor plans, kitchen amenities, and bathrooms designed for accessibility. Residents and visitors also value amenities such as lounges, a library, fitness areas, and covered parking. Impressions of the layout and atmosphere differ: some find the community home-like and welcoming, while others describe certain areas as institutional or less inviting. The urban location provides access to nearby shops and cafes for some, but others cite traffic, limited pedestrian access to everyday errands, parking logistics, or distance from family as drawbacks.
Cost is a recurring consideration. Reviewers describe the base price as high, with additional charges when residents need more assistance, and some note annual increases. Overall, the strongest fit appears to be for people who value a well-appointed community, social programming, and a friendly environment and whose care needs align with the services offered. Prospective residents and families should confirm current staffing, meal options, activity schedules, memory-care policies, emergency procedures, and the full cost of anticipated care.
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Location
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen is located at 1420 Curci Dr, San Jose, CA, 95126.
About Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen sits in San Jose, California, and offers seniors a place to live that feels comfortable and open, with natural light, wood accents, and well-made gathering spaces that are easy to get around. The apartments come in different floor plans, so folks can pick what suits them best, and every place feels inviting and easy to call home. The community has several amenities, such as a salon, a movie theater, and a restaurant-style dining room where chefs prepare nutritious meals. Residents can spend time in the bright courtyard or visit nearby shops, cafes, parks, and even walk along a local creek.
The staff provides care based on what each person needs, whether it's independent living, help with daily activities like bathing and taking medicine, or specialized support for memory issues through the memory care program, Novelle. Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen helps people adjust as their health changes, since skilled care's available on campus for folks who need more support than assisted living can give. Seniors with Alzheimer's or other types of dementia can live in secure spaces built to reduce confusion and keep them safe.
There are special gathering places for social activities, and handy features like Wi-Fi, handicap accessibility, and home care services for those who want companionship or extra non-medical help. The community's won awards for its friendly staff, good food, a variety of activities, and overall care. Merrill Gardens aims for a family feel and tries to balance fun, a flexible lifestyle, and personal independence. It helps residents keep their routines while living near shops, medical care, and nature. There's even a website with a map, directions, and a virtual tour for folks who want a closer look. The place focuses on a simple, vibrant life for seniors, with care options that let people stay in the same community as their needs change.
About Merrill Gardens
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen 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.
People often ask...
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen offers competitive pricing, with rates starting at a cost of $4,600 per month.
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, board and care, and continuing care retirement community.
There are 45 photos of Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen on Mirador.
Yes, Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen allows residents to age in place and adjust their level of care as needed.
The full address for this community is 1420 Curci Dr, San Jose, CA 95126.
No, Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen does not offer respite care.
Respite care in assisted living communities provides temporary, short-term relief for primary caregivers by offering professional care for their loved ones. It allows individuals to stay in an assisted living community for a limited time, giving caregivers a break while ensuring residents receive necessary support and assistance with daily activities.
Safety & Compliance
In California, the Department of Social Services' Community Care Licensing Division licenses residential care facilities for the elderly, conducting inspections and investigating complaints.
License number
435202807
Status
Licensed
Facility type
Residential Care Elderly
Capacity
150 residents
Licensee
MG AT WILLOW GLEN, LP ;SHI-IV MERRILL GP,LLC;ET AL
Investigated a complaint that charges for services were not stated on the admission agreement, and records showed charges aligned with signed level-of-care changes.
24 Mar 2026Inspection
24 Mar 2026Inspection
Conducted an unannounced case management visit to review an amended finding and confirm training on the e-call system. Licensing staff noted that deficiency citations were cleared.
10 Mar 2026Complaint
10 Mar 2026Complaint
Investigated concerns that call buttons were not answered promptly, with reports of delays up to 20 minutes and system issues; the medication-related allegation was unfounded.
Type B87411
25 Feb 2026Complaint
25 Feb 2026Complaint
Investigated allegations that staff did not prevent a resident from developing a pressure injury, did not meet toileting needs, and did not ensure clean bedding, and that staff dispensing medication were not properly trained.
06 Jan 2026Complaint
06 Jan 2026Complaint
Investigated two pest- and odor-related allegations. No corroborated evidence of ants or foul odors affecting residents was found.
04 Dec 2025Inspection
04 Dec 2025Inspection
Found no licensing citations issued; all resident and staff records were complete and up to date.
01 Dec 2025Complaint
01 Dec 2025Complaint
Identified that hospice initiation notification to the Department within five working days was not provided.
Type B87632(d)(2)
01 Dec 2025Complaint
01 Dec 2025Complaint
Found no evidence to support the allegations after reviewing resident records, incident/death reports, and interviewing residents and staff.
26 Nov 2025Inspection
26 Nov 2025Inspection
Observed safety features in place and areas clean and accessible. No deficiencies cited.
08 Oct 2025Inspection
08 Oct 2025Inspection
Investigated a death of a former resident after staff found the person unresponsive and called 911; the cause of death remained unknown and there was no indication of neglect or foul play by staff.
19 Sept 2025Inspection
19 Sept 2025Inspection
Investigated after a death report related to a former resident. Documents were reviewed and interviews conducted, and the case remained open pending further investigation.
06 Aug 2025Complaint
06 Aug 2025Complaint
Investigated an allegation that a staff member did not properly store a resident's insulin pen, carrying it in a pocket after administration. The pen was later found in another resident's room, raising safety concerns.
Type A87465(h)(2)
04 Aug 2025Complaint
04 Aug 2025Complaint
Identified a cockroach infestation in resident rooms with ongoing pest-control efforts noted over several months.
04 Aug 2025Inspection
04 Aug 2025Inspection
Investigated two pest-related complaints and amended their findings; noted no deficiencies cited.
29 Jul 2025Inspection
29 Jul 2025Inspection
Observed resident medications left in a locked office outside the medication area and no destruction log available. The situation required further investigation.
24 Jul 2025Inspection
24 Jul 2025Inspection
Identified a prior Type A deficiency from a complaint investigation involving maintenance and operation; no deficiencies were cited during the follow-up visit.
Type A87303(a)
14 Jul 2025Complaint
14 Jul 2025Complaint
Investigated a complaint about pests and found cockroach activity in a resident's room. Documented ongoing pest-control issues at the location.
Type A87303(a)
14 Jul 2025Complaint
14 Jul 2025Complaint
Identified cockroaches in a resident room; other allegations about ADL assistance, staffing adequacy, odors, and medication error reporting were not supported.
14 Jul 2025Complaint
14 Jul 2025Complaint
Investigated a complaint about pests in a resident's unit and found cockroaches persisted despite regular pest-control services.
11 Jul 2025Complaint
11 Jul 2025Complaint
Investigated allegations that the site was not kept in good repair, served cold or low-quality food, did not assist residents with transportation, treated a resident with disrespect, and had a toilet that was too small.
11 Jul 2025Complaint
11 Jul 2025Complaint
Investigated allegations that a staff member grabbed a resident by the collar, moved them from bed to a wheelchair, and shoved them against a bathroom wall, and that staff verbally abused a resident. The investigation found no preponderance of evidence to prove the violations.
02 Jul 2025Inspection
02 Jul 2025Inspection
Investigated an incident where a resident reported financial theft by unknown individuals on 6/26/2025, reviewed related documentation, and interviewed staff.
27 Jun 2025Complaint
27 Jun 2025Complaint
Found that the allegations that staff did not report a fall, failed to ensure safety, charged for unauthorized services, and administered medication without a physician's order were unfounded.
20 Jun 2025Complaint
20 Jun 2025Complaint
Investigated the allegation that staff threatened eviction; found it unfounded.
06 Jun 2025Complaint
06 Jun 2025Complaint
Investigated an allegation that staff slapped a resident and treated a resident roughly. Interviews with residents, staff, and a review of care notes were conducted.
06 Jun 2025Complaint
06 Jun 2025Complaint
Investigated a complaint alleging residents were not assisted with showers or wheelchair transfers and that medications were not dispensed as prescribed. Findings showed the shower and transfer allegations were unfounded, and the medication allegations were unsubstantiated.
07 May 2025Complaint
07 May 2025Complaint
Identified that a resident received trazodone three times daily despite a prescription to reduce to twice daily, and that rate increases and higher level of care changes were not properly communicated.
Type A87465(a)(4)
Type B1569.655(a)
13 Mar 2025Complaint
13 Mar 2025Complaint
Investigated a complaint alleging staff overcharged a resident for services not received. Found the allegation unfounded.
13 Mar 2025Complaint
13 Mar 2025Complaint
Investigated allegations that residents were not offered an alternative to water, that supervision in memory care dining was lacking, and that continence care for a resident was not provided; these allegations were found unsubstantiated.
04 Dec 2024Inspection
04 Dec 2024Inspection
Identified that five of eight centrally stored medication logs had incorrect prescription numbers.
Type B87465(h)(6)(E)
04 Dec 2024Inspection
04 Dec 2024Inspection
Observed a resident accessed the memory care unit kitchen and consumed another resident's medications from a staff member's tray when the kitchen swing door was not locked. A technical violation was issued.
27 Nov 2024Inspection
27 Nov 2024Inspection
Found no deficiencies cited. Observed safety and care measures such as adequate food supply, functioning bathrooms, and clear outdoor areas.
15 Nov 2024Complaint
15 Nov 2024Complaint
Investigated an allegation that resident services were not provided due to insufficient staff; evidence showed long response times for emergency pendant calls in July 2021.
Type B87411
15 Nov 2024Complaint
15 Nov 2024Complaint
Investigated an allegation that the resident's call cord was in disrepair; observations and interviews indicated no issue.
15 Nov 2024Complaint
15 Nov 2024Complaint
Investigated the allegation that there were no proper emergency protocols for wheelchair-bound residents; observed evacuation chairs on stairwells at multiple floors.
07 Nov 2024Complaint
07 Nov 2024Complaint
Found that the investigation addressed medication storage and disposal, recordkeeping for centralized meds, a disrepair med-tech room door, failure to report an incident, and updates to residents' medical files along with an alleged incident of a resident being hit by a staff member.
Type B87465(h)(5)
Type B87465(h)(6)
Type B87465(i)
Type B87303(a)
Type B87211(a)(1)
07 Nov 2024Complaint
07 Nov 2024Complaint
Investigated the allegation that staff's children slept in the common area and that plumbing was in disrepair. Found no evidence of children sleeping in common areas and concluded there was not a preponderance of evidence supporting the plumbing issue.
17 Sept 2024Complaint
17 Sept 2024Complaint
Investigated a complaint about care, meals, and charges for services not received. Found that the allegations were unfounded.
17 Sept 2024Inspection
17 Sept 2024Inspection
Found an amended investigation report delivered for a complaint; no citation was issued.
16 Jul 2024Complaint
16 Jul 2024Complaint
Investigated an allegation that staff neglected a resident resulting in the resident's death and an allegation that staff slept while residents were present.
09 Jul 2024Complaint
09 Jul 2024Complaint
Investigated complaints about resident rooms being unsanitary and staff response to call buttons. Found the complaints unsubstantiated.
09 Jun 2023Complaint
09 Jun 2023Complaint
Investigated a complaint that staff did not respond to residents' calls in a timely manner. Records showed numerous call wait times over 45 minutes, with the longest confirmed wait of 2 hours 41 minutes during a period of understaffing.
Type B87411(a)
12 May 2023Inspection
12 May 2023Inspection
Investigated a claim that visitation was disallowed during a February COVID-19 outbreak. Reviewed visitation records, emails, and resident interviews; found no evidence of restrictions in 2023.
29 Nov 2022Complaint
29 Nov 2022Complaint
Investigated an allegation that a staff member caused injury to a resident and found no evidence the injury occurred.
10 Nov 2022Inspection
10 Nov 2022Inspection
Observed adequate PPE, food supplies, and hygiene materials during an unannounced, annual visit. No deficiencies were cited.
20 Oct 2021Inspection
20 Oct 2021Inspection
Observed exits free of hazards, emergency and safety measures in place, and required documentation in order; no deficiencies cited.
03 Sept 2021Inspection
03 Sept 2021Inspection
Observed COVID-19 infection control measures and signage in place. No deficiencies were cited.
21 Jul 2021Inspection
21 Jul 2021Inspection
Identified failure to report a June 2021 COVID-19 positive case to the licensing agency within 24 hours; staff notified only the local health department.
Type B87211(a)(2)
26 May 2021Inspection
26 May 2021Inspection
Observed adherence to infection control and sanitation standards; no deficiencies cited, advisory notes issued.
04 Dec 2020Inspection
04 Dec 2020Inspection
Found COVID-19 mitigation measures in place at the site, with PPE use, hand sanitizing stations, and visible signage and posters. Observed two issues—staff breaks in the dining area without proper social distancing and seating not spaced 6 feet; the general manager stated recommendations would be implemented; no deficiencies cited.
11 Aug 2020Inspection
11 Aug 2020Inspection
Confirmed a concern from the public regarding potential termination of a resident's residency, but no eviction notice was issued due to COVID-19 policies in place.
Type B87211
24 Jan 2020Inspection
24 Jan 2020Inspection
Found no deficiencies during visit and conducted interviews with staff regarding a resident who passed away.
24 Oct 2019Inspection
24 Oct 2019Inspection
Identified resident with dementia who left the facility unassisted due to door not properly secured. Staff received training and reminders put in place to prevent future incidents.
Disclaimer
Mirador Living is not affiliated with the owner or operator(s) of Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen. The information above has not been verified or approved by the owner or operator. For exact information, please contact Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen directly. There is no cost for this service. We are compensated by the community you select.
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