Merrill Gardens at Rockridge
$5,100 – $8,695/mo
Starting price
Memory Care
Care types
Studio, 1 Bedroom, 2 Bedroom, Shared, Private
Room options
Yes
Wheelchair access
About Merrill Gardens at Rockridge
Merrill Gardens at Rockridge in Oakland’s Shafter neighborhood combines modern comfort with thoughtful care tailored to seniors’ evolving needs. Spacious, light-filled apartments offer stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and Bay Area hills. The community supports independent living, assisted living, and specialized memory care with 24-hour staffing and personalized care plans. Residents benefit from diverse amenities including a rooftop patio, theater, library, fitness room, and pet-friendly spaces. The inviting social calendar features activities, movie nights, and outings, while dining is elevated with restaurant-style meals prepared by professional chefs. Transportation and housekeeping services add convenience, making daily life easier and more engaging.
Our Care Approach
The community emphasizes individualized care that adapts to residents’ changing needs across independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Staff are trained to support physical, intellectual, and emotional well-being, using programs like Montessori-inspired memory care. Medical and medication management are available 24/7, reflecting a comprehensive and responsive care philosophy.
Family Experience
Families report positive interactions with attentive and informed staff who provide clear communication and helpful guidance during tours and beyond. While some note excellent care and welcoming attitudes, others mention occasional issues with front desk staff. Overall, families feel the community supports their loved ones well and appreciate the transparency about pricing and services.
Care & Services
Services and care programs available at Merrill Gardens at Rockridge.
Medical Care Services
24-hour nursing supervision, medication management, health monitoring, and support for chronic conditions are provided.
Personal Care Services
Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility, and daily living activities is available to residents as needed.
Specialized Care
Memory care services include a Montessori-based Inspire Connection Program designed to support residents with dementia in a safe, engaging environment.
Interested in learning more about the care options?
Living Environment
Cleanliness & Maintenance
The facility is described as modern, well-maintained, and clean, with bright common areas and apartments featuring abundant natural light.
Atmosphere & Community Feel
Residents enjoy a lively, activity-filled environment with many social and intellectual engagement opportunities, fostering friendships and community connection.
Safety & Security
Merrill Gardens provides 24-hour staffing, emergency alert systems, and secure access, ensuring a safe living environment for all residents.
Amenities
Reviews
Based on 19 reviews
Reviews highlight a bright, activity-rich environment with knowledgeable, caring staff, especially praised in memory care. Families appreciate the well-maintained, modern facilities and the welcoming atmosphere. Some concerns include unfriendly front desk staff and parking difficulties. Overall, residents and families feel confident in the quality of medical care and supportive services provided.
- Knowledgeable and caring staff, especially in the Garden House memory care
- Beautiful, modern facilities with lots of natural light and great views
- Engaging activities and thoughtful dining options
- Unfriendly and rude front desk staff reported
- Parking is difficult and limited
- Some families cautious about pricing increases
Marie Melodia
A activity filled community- with a bright and cheery atmosphere with lots to do! Very welcoming and knowledgeable staff- especially in the Garden House ! Thank you for the great space for our loved ones!
Raymond Sze
We were very impressed with the warmth and caring of Kristine Nachand and her entire staff. The facilities are beautiful, the food looks delectable (including the chocolate chocolate chips we got to take home), and it’s clear a lot of thought has gone into creating an environment where seniors can thrive physically, intellectually, and emotionally.
cautious optimist
Well run independent living. Hard parking.
7 more residents rated this community with an average of 5.0 stars
Families love this community. See if it’s the right fit for you.
Pricing
$5,100 – $8,695/mo
Pricing varies by room type, care level, and services selected.
Available Room Types
Value Consideration
Pricing ranges from $5,100 to $8,695 monthly, which aligns with the local market and includes meals, housekeeping, transportation, and activities. While some families find the cost reasonable for the quality and range of services, others express caution about annual rent increases of 5-10%. The community’s extensive amenities and care offerings support its value proposition.
Location & Neighborhood
About the Area
Located in Oakland’s Shafter neighborhood near Rockridge, the community benefits from proximity to medical centers like Kaiser Permanente and local pharmacies. The area offers a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants, along with parks and walking paths that encourage outdoor activities. This setting provides residents with convenient access to essential services and leisure options.
Nearby Attractions
- Kaiser Permanente Medical Center
- Local cafes and restaurants in Rockridge
- Parks and walking trails nearby
Public Transportation
- Local bus routes serving the Rockridge area
- Nearby Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) stations
Questions & Answers
Community Updates
Latest News
2025-10-04T17:00:59.000Z
Discover the vibrant lifestyle waiting for you at Merrill Gardens at Rockridge! 🌟 Explore all that our community has to offer and see why so many choose to call us home. Click the link to watch our short tour and experience the charm firsthand:
2025-10-01T17:09:11.000Z
Retirement is a major milestone. This is a time of excitement, exploration, and freedom. However, it can also come with a few unexpected challenges. One prevalent issue that some seniors experience is the shrinking of social groups. Many don’t see their friends and colleagues as often which can lead to loneliness. How can you expand your social network and make new friends in retirement? A good number of active older adults are opting to move to senior living communities for an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Watch this video to learn about the social benefits of a senior living community:
2025-09-28T17:01:32.000Z
Our Inspire Connection Program embodies what is important to you and your loved one. We are committed to people, place, and purpose. Using a Montessori approach designed for memory care, residents can engage in community roles, routines, and activities, bringing a sense of belonging and well-being. Do you have questions about the Montessori approach to memory care? Watch this video to learn more:
2025-09-26T20:41:53.000Z
Leaving a longtime home can feel overwhelming—but it can also open the door to a new beginning filled with connection, comfort, and support. 💛 In our latest blog, guest blogger Eric Johnson shares how his mom making the move to senior living is not just about leaving a home, but about finding a new one. 👉 Read more here:
2025-09-11T17:02:19.000Z
Today, on 9/11, we take the time to remember the 3,000 people who lost their lives 24 years ago. We will never forget.
2025-09-01T17:03:13.000Z
Happy Labor Day! Thank you to all our incredibly hard working team members for your dedication, compassion, and expertise. We’re so grateful for everything you do to make our community a place where everyone feels like family. Enjoy your well-deserved day of recognition! 😊
2025-08-28T17:01:21.000Z
Touring a senior living community helps you see daily life, meet caring team members, and find the perfect fit for you or your loved one. Want to know what questions to ask during your visit? Check out our latest blog for helpful tips! 📖✨ Click here to read more:
2025-08-20T20:14:32.000Z
How can you expand your social network and make new friends in retirement? Many older adults are opting to move to senior living communities for an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Check out this one-minute video to learn the social benefits of senior living:
2025-08-15T18:40:21.000Z
Did you know nearly 40% of seniors aren’t drinking enough water? 💧 Keep your body running smoothly with our simple hydration hacks for older adults: store water nearby, snack on hydrating fruits, or set helpful reminders. Learn more in our latest blog:
2025-07-31T21:30:46.000Z
Thinking about moving to a senior living community? Our latest blog shares what to expect—more peace of mind, engaging activities, and a supportive environment. ✨ Discover how your next chapter can be vibrant and stress-free by clicking here:
Ready to learn more about Merrill Gardens at Rockridge?
Get your free personalized path or schedule a visit today.