I moved my mom here and I'm very pleased. The staff are helpful, responsive and compassionate, and management is professional and communicative. The facility feels clean, safe and comfortable with spacious, well-equipped apartments, great common areas, engaging activities and solid dining - move-in was smooth and ongoing contact has been excellent. I highly recommend this welcoming, home-like community.
Loved one of resident
Jul 2026
Pricing
Prices shown are estimates and subject to change. Contact your senior living advisor for current pricing.
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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
4.13·(118)
Overall rating
5
4
3
2
1
Care
3.8
Staff
4.2
Meals
3.5
Amenities
4.0
Value
2.5
Pros
Engaged, well-staffed activity program
Compassionate caregiving and nursing presence
Clean, modern, well-maintained building
Spacious contemporary apartments with full kitchens
Memory care unit with specialized programming
On-site amenities: dining room, library, fitness, salon, game rooms
Chef-driven meals with dietary accommodations
Accessible, mobility-friendly apartment design
Underground/covered parking
Open communication and family engagement practices
Staff cross-training and clinical oversight (RNs/LVNs)
Flexible transitions from independent to assisted living
Welcoming common areas and social spaces
Housekeeping, laundry, and maintenance services
Active community outings and day trips
Cons
High staff turnover and intermittent staffing shortages
Inconsistent dining quality and limited menu variety
Elevated cost structure and periodic rate increases
Front-desk and safety-oversight gaps
Management instability during leadership transitions
Inconsistent clinical coordination and medication-management processes
Maintenance and infrastructure reliability issues (e.g., elevators, power)
Sanitation and odor concerns in specific areas
Limited evening programming and reduced activity coverage when understaffed
Limited suitability for residents with higher medical/complex-care needs
Small outdoor grounds and limited walkability to nearby shops
Institutional-feeling long corridors in portions of the building
Summary of reviews
Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen presents as a modern, well-maintained senior community with a clear emphasis on social programming, comfortable apartments, and a visible clinical presence. Reviewers frequently highlight a strong activity program led by an energetic activities director, a variety of on-site amenities (dining room, library, fitness room, salon, and game/puzzle spaces), and thoughtfully equipped apartments with full kitchens and accessible bathrooms. Memory care is available on-site and several families reported specialized programming and attentive staff in that unit.
Care and staffing are described as caring and family-oriented in many accounts: caregivers and licensed nursing personnel (RNs/LVNs) are noted as engaged, with some evidence of cross-training and recent proactive hires to strengthen clinical oversight. At the same time, a persistent pattern of staffing turnover and intermittent shortages is evident. These staffing issues have operational impacts—activity schedules have been scaled back at times, families have described the need to supplement care privately, and there are isolated concerns about front-desk coverage and timely family notification following incidents. Clinical coordination and medication-management practices were flagged in a number of accounts as inconsistent and worth clarifying with management during a tour.
Dining receives mixed evaluations. Many residents and visitors praise the chef-driven, nutritious meals and the facility's willingness to accommodate dietary needs; however, others describe variability in quality, limited menu variety, repetitive lunch/dinner offerings, and occasional presentation shortcomings. Staffing changes in the kitchen were cited as a factor in inconsistency. Prospective residents should taste the food and review typical menu cycles when evaluating fit.
The activities program is a central strength: daytime programming, chair exercise, outings, and in-house events are commonly cited as creating a strong social environment. That said, reviewers noted fewer evening options and periodic reductions in outings or special events when staffing is constrained. The community fosters social connection for residents who prefer group programming, though some described the community as quieter and less suited to very active or younger independent residents.
Facilities and operations are generally positive: the building is described as new, clean, and attractively furnished with good common spaces and covered parking. Accessibility features such as roll-in showers and handrails are present in many units. Notable operational weaknesses include occasional maintenance and infrastructure reliability issues (e.g., elevator or power interruptions), localized sanitation or odor concerns, and an exterior/site layout that offers limited grounds and is not highly walkable to nearby shops. Several reviewers also commented on portions of the interior—long, darker corridors—that can feel institutional rather than home-like.
Management and cost are mixed themes. Multiple accounts point to active corrective steps by management (new hires, interim leadership, and operational changes) and strong family communication in many cases; conversely, frequent leadership transitions, front-desk training gaps, billing or invoicing lapses, and concerns about security oversight were also described. Price and periodic rate increases are a consistent consideration—many families find the community higher cost relative to alternatives, and affordability may be a limiting factor.
Overall, Merrill Gardens at Willow Glen is likely to appeal to families prioritizing an active daytime program, modern and accessible living spaces, and an engaged caregiving team with on-site clinical staff and memory-care options. Prospective residents should confirm current staffing levels and leadership stability, sample meals, review safety and emergency procedures (including elevator/backup power contingencies), and discuss specific clinical or medication-management needs prior to move-in to ensure the community’s current operational profile matches their care and budget expectations.
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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 44 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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