Merriam Casa Bella sits on 3.5 acres at 131 Main St in Newton, NJ, where you'll find shaded courtyards, paved walking paths, and neat gardens that give everything a peaceful feel right on the outskirts of Franklin, which seems to suit folks looking for a quieter way of living, and although the building dates back to 1883, it's been modernized over the years so seniors can live comfortably with the support they need, whether they're independent, need assisted living, memory care, or help at home with daily activities. The community's known for a friendly feeling and staff who treat residents with respect and patience, speaking both Filipino and English, and you'll see everyone from more active seniors who get around easily to people who need more support, with rooms offering ground floor access, private baths, Wi-Fi, and air conditioning.
There's a big focus on making daily life easier, so residents get help with bathing, dressing, medication, and chores like housekeeping and laundry, and meals are provided with low sodium or no sugar options, all made with fresh ingredients, which makes it easier for folks who don't want to worry about cooking or shopping. Pets are also welcome, which means people don't have to leave animal companions behind, and smoking's only allowed outside, so it keeps shared spaces and rooms smoke-free for those who'd rather not be around it. For seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia, there's a secure area where trained staff provide care and therapy in a safe environment so there's less risk of confusion or wandering, and respite care is available for those who only need short-term help.
People living here have access to all sorts of activities and gatherings, like games, bingo, arts and crafts, karaoke, live music, and intergenerational programs, plus birthday and holiday parties, barbecues, and trips offsite, all organized by a full-time activity director, and devotional services happen both onsite and offsite for those who want them. Common areas like the library, TV lounge, meeting room, outdoor patios, and an arts and crafts center give residents places to gather or relax alone, and there's a beauty salon too for those who'd like a little pampering every so often. Transportation is available for appointments or outings, and the grounds are always well-kept, which adds to the calm feeling around the place.
Besides the regular assisted living and memory care, Merriam Casa Bella offers nursing home care, home health care, help with diabetes and incontinence, and hospice when needed, plus guidance for long-term care insurance, help for family caregivers, and support for errands like grocery shopping. Residents can expect staff to be available at all hours, and the focus always seems to come back to making life run smoothly with dignity and kindness in a quiet New Jersey setting that has a little bit of history and a lot of practical comforts for seniors.
