Truewood by Merrill, New Bern

Truewood by Merrill, New Bern sits as a single-story senior living community that offers a range of care options including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, so folks can choose what fits their needs best, and with its family-owned background, there's a bit more of a connected feel to the place. Residents can live in private studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom apartments, and the floor plans span a good range of sizes, from 168 sq. ft. up to 680 sq. ft., which means people have a choice for how much space they want or need, and when help is needed, staff provides 24-hour support along with weekly housekeeping and scheduled transportation for appointments or shopping. The community welcomes pets, and with outdoor features like a shuffleboard and horseshoe court, a putting green, gardens, sidewalks, fountains, and colorful trees, there are simple ways to spend time outside or take a stroll for some fresh air. The clubhouse, cafe/bistro, computer room, library, beauty salon, barber shop, gym, and theater all give places to gather or do activities, and the calendar stays full with events meant to be social, educational, or just plain fun, so folks can shop, dine, enjoy parks, or play games without having to travel far.

The Truewood Dining Program is run by a culinary team and gives residents restaurant-style, cooked-to-order meals that are fresh, healthy, and able to fit different diets, and there's a private dining room for special occasions or quieter meals. People who need help with daily tasks get that from the assisted living services, with staff ready to assist with things like bathing, dressing, or medication, and for those living with dementia or Alzheimer's, the Inspire Connection Memory Care program brings specialized care using a Montessori approach, which helps people feel they belong and gives structure so they can be engaged, safe, and as independent as possible. The memory care area is enclosed for safety, set up to lessen confusion, and offers programs like reminiscence therapy. Residents can use a call system for emergencies, and apartments include wheelchair accessible showers, so mobility is taken into account.

Truewood by Merrill, New Bern focuses on letting folks keep their independence as much as possible, but they adjust as needs change and can provide a higher level of care if health situations shift, with their licenses HAL-025-040 and HAL-025-041 backing that up. The atmosphere aims for comfort and confidence, with a community spirit shown through group activities, community events, and supportive staff with professional training. There's parking for residents, and transportation can be arranged for getting to stores, golf, or appointments. The whole place is designed to help people keep up friendships, maintain choice, and find purpose, so while it's not fancy or overly luxurious, it is practical, straightforward, and hopes to give seniors and their families a sense of security and peace of mind.

Truewood by Merrill, New Bern 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.