Valencia at Cottonwood Heights

Valencia at Cottonwood Heights sits in a quiet, wooded area right by Little Cottonwood Creek, and you can really feel the peacefulness with their gardens and walking paths, especially when you're eating in their creek-side dining area with the sound of the water nearby, and for folks who like being near the action, the Fort Union Shopping district's just down the street within walking distance and there are plenty of restaurants of all types, like pizza, hamburger, Asian and sushi places, plus spots for ice cream, cupcakes, bubble tea, and more, which means residents can get out and enjoy the local flavor when they're up for it. The community is gated and offers controlled, secure access-there's guest parking, too-while inside you'll find 23 private units, a secure memory care wing for those who need it, and rooms that come with emergency call systems, so help comes quickly, and the staff includes nurses who know how to respond right away no matter the time of day or night, and they've been at it for several years so they understand what seniors need. Valencia offers several living options, like independent living, assisted living, nursing care, and memory care, all focusing on personal attention and a comfortable place to call home, and there's even respite care and short-term stay options for families needing a little extra help. They publish their pricing for different room types so you know what to expect right off the bat, and their all-inclusive prices cover things like meals, laundry, housekeeping, maintenance, and even activities, which are plentiful since there's always something happening-from exercise classes and social events to off-site outings and educational programs to help keep your mind sharp, and a library with books and magazines when you want something quieter, plus devotional services for those who want them. Food's prepared by a team with a registered dietitian, and you can have your meals in the dining rooms or delivered to your room if you'd rather, and snacks are always around, while cleaning and laundry get handled by the staff so residents don't have to worry. If you have a pet, check their pet policies because some are allowed, and you don't have to fret about smoking smells because both public and private indoor spaces are non-smoking. The buildings are handicap accessible and there are secured courtyards where you can enjoy the outdoors safely, along with a whirlpool spa for relaxing. Transportation is provided when you need a ride to appointments, shopping, or out for activities, and since the community sits close to St. Marks Hospital, Alta View Hospital, and Intermountain Medical Center, quick medical help is within reach, and they also have therapy services if you need physical or mental health support or even hospice care. Valencia's won some awards before and people-both residents and their families-have said good things in their reviews, noting how helpful and friendly the staff are, but like anywhere, the best thing is to come and see if it fits your needs because they do aim for that mix of independent living and extra support, all in a natural, secure environment.

Valencia at Cottonwood Heights 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.