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About Truewood by Merrill, First Hill
At Truewood by Merrill, First Hill, you will enjoy all of the available services and care you need but can remain as independent as you like. Our residents enjoy all the local activities and entertainment that Seattle has to offer. Our community is positioned perfectly for residents to take advantage of local events.
Every day is an opportunity filled endless choices for our senior residents to enrich their lives. Residents can pursue favorite activities or pursue new ones. We have regularly scheduled events every month as well clubs and a social dining setting. Our goal is to always foster an atmosphere that fills our residents with inspiration and to live their lives to the fullest. Our staff is warm and friendly and is here to serve our seniors among the beautiful surroundings of our community.
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Living and Care
Independent Living
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Independent Living offers active, healthy seniors in Seattle a vibrant lifestyle in their golden years. Featuring age-restricted residences, worry-free living, and an array of social events and activities. With Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Independent Living, you can enrich your retirement by engaging in your favorite hobbies and interests.
Assisted Living
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Assisted Living offers Seattle seniors a vibrant community that respects independence while providing needed care. Personal assistance, community features, and trained staff presence ensure comprehensive care. At Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Assisted Living, you can rest assured your loved one is receiving quality care and support.
Memory Care
At Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Memory Care in Seattle, seniors with Alzheimer's and dementia receive specialized and compassionate care. Custom care routines, a comfortable, but protected environment, and cognitive-enhancing programs help residents daily. Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Memory Care offers significant quality of life improvement for loved ones dealing with dementia, giving their families comfort.
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Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Amenities & Services
Residents have access to Walking Paths - indoor, Special Dining Programs, Specialized Training for Caregivers, Reminiscence therapy, Computer room, Outside patio garden, Barber Shop, Meeting room, Free high speed internet, Billiards lounge, Main Street Common Areas, Library, Atrium, Fireplaces in common areas, Game room, TV Lounge, Free cable satellite tv, Beauty Salon, Butterfly garden / Hummingbird garden, Piano / Organ, Free Wi-Fi, Raised gardening beds, Movie Room / Theater, Jacuzzi, Religious Services: Catholic, Visiting Chaplain, Grocery shopping service, Laundry service / dry-cleaning, Housekeeping provided, Activities Onsite, Outdoor Common Areas, Devotional Services Onsite, Vegetarian, Activities Offsite, Beautician Onsite, Indoor Common Areas, Meals Provided, Devotional Services Offsite and other facility comforts so seniors feel right at home. Our fully-trained staff is always friendly and available to help seniors feel right at home.
Our facility has Property Convenient to Busline, Complimentary Transportation, Resident Parking Available, Professional chef, Special Diets: Low / No Sugar, International cuisine, Special Diets: Low / No sodium, Vegan options, Room service, Special Diets: Gluten-free, Private dining room, Restaurant style dining, Guest meals, Anytime Dining, Aging in Place, Full Tubs, Hospice Available, Wheelchair Accessible Showers, Respite Offered and other ways we keep seniors active and healthy. Our staff works really hard to keep our aging residents active and independent, keeping everyone feeling young and healthy.
Residents enjoy of a full schedule of social, educational and entertaining activities. Our structured program helps all residents maintain a high quality of life. Many of our activities encourage members to socialize and develop friendships with other residents. We make sure the activities are fun and entertaining.
Want to learn more about what our senior living community can offer you? Call (800) 755-1458 for more information.
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Location
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill
1421 Minor Ave, Seattle, WA 98101
Pricing & Availability
(800) 755-1458Available Living Options
- Assisted Living
- Independent Living
- Memory Care
Contact Us to Get Pricing & Schedule Tours
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Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price for Truewood by Merrill, First Hill?
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill determines pricing for independent living, assisted living, and memory care based on care type, staffing, and support level required. Costs may also be affected by services like personal care, daily activities, and wellness monitoring. Call (800) 755-1458 for customized quotes and tailored pricing.
Does Truewood by Merrill, First Hill accept Medicare or Medicaid?
Medicare does not fund independent living, assisted living, or memory care as these services are considered housing and non-medical support. Medicare may cover necessary medical services like physical therapy or doctor visits when prescribed. Medicaid may assist with memory care or assisted living costs through state-specific programs, but it does not generally cover independent living. Call (800) 755-1458 for an accurate assessment and expert advice.
What living and care is available at Truewood by Merrill, First Hill?
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services to support seniors at various stages of life. Independent living promotes an active, maintenance-free lifestyle, assisted living provides personalized support with daily tasks, and memory care offers specialized assistance in a secure and nurturing environment.
Are there rooms available at Truewood by Merrill, First Hill?
Units at Truewood by Merrill, First Hill change in availability daily. Call (800) 755-1458 to talk with a senior living advisor for current openings. Full occupancy of all units creates an opportunity to join the organized waiting list.
Can I take a tour of Truewood by Merrill, First Hill?
Yes, tours of Truewood by Merrill, First Hill can be arranged. Contact the community by phone or through the contact form to schedule your visit and learn more about the available services and amenities.
Does Truewood by Merrill, First Hill have good reviews?
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill is rated 4.8, reflecting very positive reviews. Customers commended the independent living, assisted living, and memory care, noting the exceptional services, clean facilities, and supportive staff.
Reviews Truewood by Merrill, First Hill
August 2026
August 2026
The Executive Chef Sami not only makes great food options but she goes way beyond just her area of responsibility. While my mom has only been at Union Grand for a few weeks, in that short time Sami has personally made herself available to my mom, came up and visited her and has been there to support me as well. She is such an important person to this community. She has this magical personality and is able to connect with folks. She even got my son to play in the community band during his visit with his grandma, and that was quite a feat! Union Grand, do what you can to hang onto this very special person!
April 2026
My dad moved in at the end of May and all is going well. From the first tour with the manager, Patrick, and the second tour with Andrew, both of them offered us a warm reception and valuable information. On move-in day everybody on the staff came to my dad and welcomed him. It felt really nice. Such a difficult time for him, so the friendly environment made a difference. Now that we’re a few weeks, he’s happy with his apartment and really enjoys the dining room and food. We’ve been pleased with all the services as we visit several times a week and it’s always seemed very active and upbeat. I’m happy we chose this home.
February 2026
Very clean and spacious public areas. Excellent attention to my vegetarian principles. Extremely friendly staff. Super neighborhood if you like First Hill/Capitol Hill as much as I do.
February 2026
My 99 Year Old Mom and I were looking for an Ideal community and Found it in Truewood by Merrill Gardens in First Hill Seattle. Many of the staff members have worked there 10+ years. Mom is treated warmly and with respect. Her Studio is Bright and full of light from large windows facing east. With advanced care she is well taken care of which is a great comfort for me and my Family. I would rate it 5 stars for Cleanliness, overall ambience, attentive staff and delicious dining. There are numerous activities whether stationary or active. And live Music on Thursdays and Fridays, their version of happy hour. It’s a well rounded place. I highly recommend to all families looking to place their loved ones in a safe, enriching environment.
June 2025
Welcoming, happy and diverse ~ this is what I feel when I walk in the doors! the staff all seem to love working here, and the residents appear to really feel at home and enjoying their community!
May 2025
Great location, fun warm and happy. Greenery flowers.Jennifer was gracious and knowledgable and informative.
May 2025
Truewood is a gem of a community in downtown Seattle. Close to first rate doctor clinics, hospitals and entertainment. It is very cozy inside and the residents are always busy with activities, making new friends and enjoy the delicious meals. Jennifer and team will make you feel very welcomed!
May 2025
Truewood, Merrill Gardens is a wonderfully, unique gem of a Retirement community on Capitol Hill in Seattle. The clients I've assisted in finding retirement communities who've chosen Truewood have loved it! It's a good value in the area, offering great amenities, friendly residents and caring staff.
May 2025
Stepping into Truewood by Merrill, First Hill I was struck by the warmth and familiarity the staff had with each resident they came across. I had the privilege of facilitating a two day arts workshop with SilverKite Community Arts® at Truewood and felt the community spirit of the folks that call this residence home. We worked on an arts workshop that focused on community and it was clear that the residents feel they have a strong, inclusive environment at Truewood. There are so many talented and interesting residents at this location and the staff knew them and their stories well and celebrated their unique offerings to make this community strong. The staff also went out of their way to make all participants in the workshop and guests to their residence feel welcome and considered. And Jennifer Nolan has a gift of making you feel like family and that is extended to the community that she works within.
May 2025
Truewood by Merrill is a fantastic senior community in the heart of it all on Capitol Hill. Their apartments are beautiful and the staff is topnotch. Everyone is just so friendly!
May 2025
We toured in January and were blown away by the friendly staff. The attention we got made us feel so special. What really impressed us was how a housekeeper who didn’t know us struck up conversation on an elevator. She was one of many who made us feel welcome.
May 2025
As someone who coordinates care for individuals both in their homes and in communities, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting countless senior living communities over the years”but Truewood by Merrill truly stands out as something special. It’s one of the few places I confidently and enthusiastically recommend to the families we serve. From the moment you walk in, there’s a warmth and energy that’s impossible to miss. Paige’s friendly greeting always makes me feel like I’m part of the Truewood family, and it’s clear that same welcome is extended to every resident and guest. Jennifer, the incredible move-in specialist, goes above and beyond to make any move seamless, easy and even fun - helping create a supportive, joyful environment from day one, whether it's for independent living, assisted living or memory care. What sets Truewood apart is the unbeatable combination of value, location, engaging activities, and delicious food (yes, I’ve had the pleasure!). I consistently see residents smiling, socializing, and participating in thoughtfully planned events”it’s a community where people truly thrive. Honestly, Truewood by Merrill is not just a place I refer to others”it’s a place I could see myself happily living someday. It’s that good.
May 2025
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill is a one of a kind gem. The staff and residents have created a warm, welcoming, and inclusive home. The location is peaceful. The surrounding streets are lined with establishes trees providing shade and a beautiful fall display of color. It's a very walkable neighborhood. The building is clean, and comfortable with views of the Seattle skyline. The culinary team prepares world class meals fit for the most discerning palate. This community is a fantastic value. The Community Relations Director, Jennifer is a wonderful person who cares deeply about her residence wellbeing. She goes above and beyond to make everyone feel like a part of the family.
May 2025
Thsi place is fantastic. Why? The staff is worth thier weight in gold! The Administration is terrific in setting the tone for life here. We feel welcomeed and part of a vibrant and caring community. The staff really listens to resdients requests or suggestion.One day I said no body lanow ughs here and the next thing I knew is that we now have a comedy happy hour! It is he staffs that make thi s pplace so precious and caring.. And, the leadership really pays attentiion to the resdidetns and are responisve to the residnets if hty have ideas or suggestons. As a reiddent I feel very included as a part of a vibrant commuity and well cared for. kathleen O'Connor, past president Residence
March 2025
February 2025
I have lived here for six years. I'm in independent living and enjoy the staff and the other residents that live here. The food is great with lots of variety. It's clean, well-maintained and the staff is very responsive.
January 2025
We spent several weeks evaluating assisted living options for my 95 year old mother. Truewood had a reputation for staff that stuck around and cared about the residents. We found that to be absolutely true. What nobody told us was that this is really a compassionate community. Jennifer embodied that compassion from the first phone call. She was very clear and helpful about the how to go about making a good choice for our mother. What amazed me though was how she responded when things got tough. As move in day approached, our mom fell ill, and it was terminal. Even though my mother was not moving in, Jennifer was a rock in helping us through the even harder choices we had to make in the final days. We are grateful to her and the entire Truewood family.
January 2025
I wasn't planning a move but I was so enchanted and relieved at the ease at which I could make this move by all the staff and especially Jennifer - I am so glad I decided to do it!
October 2024
Firstly, I need to say went a different route for my father, but the fact that I’m writing this review should give you some high level indication of how impressed I am with Truewood. The staff: Jennifer and the rest of the team have an immense level of respect for their job, and an undeniable amount of genuine care for the residents at Truewood, in addition to the prospects who come through the door. It’s the kind of relationship making that is almost unheard of these days, and I felt like family in an instant. Jennifer gave me a tour, I got to watch her and other staff members interact with the residents and it just warmed my heart. Another staff member and I had a great discussion about her longevity at Truewood (some dozen + years) and how she believed in paying it forward and passing on great care for others. I have visited MANY care facilities and I can easily tell youa good deal of places don’t care in the same way they do here. Now, you’re probably wondering why we didn’t decide to go there. It came down to another location being a closer fit for my commute to see dad, making it easier for me to get to him more often. I’d recommend Truewood to anyone and everyone. Good care matters!
June 2024
June 2024
This place is a gem. All of the staff are extremely personable and professional, with a strong desire to support each resident where they are at, leveraging staff expertise and experience along with appropriate doses of humor to come up with the right level of care for each resident. At the same time, staff work closely with family caregivers to understand resident needs and create an engaging and wonderful community experience for the residents. Never a dull moment at Truewood! So many excellent folks looking out for the residents. Couldn't have asked for a better place for my mom - Thanks Truewood!
June 2024
A warm, welcoming, and inviting environment with excellent attention to their residents' well-being and satisfaction. It's a great community.
June 2024
Truewood has welcomed me with open arms! The support and follow through during a difficult transition cannot be emphasized enough. My sincere gratitude and appreciation. Truewood is more than a facility; it is a secure, friendly community of great staff and diverse resident s. .
April 2024
Garden House (Memory Care) knows how to handle loved ones in a very caring way, with endless patience and love. Every person who works in the Garden House (Memory Care), and in Truewood, is like family to us because we know they care about our loved one as their own family and that means everything to us. We can sleep at night knowing Mom is safe and loved and with dementia, that is never easy. If it were easy, we would have kept Mom with us and taken care of her and believe me we tried. The staff at Truewood knows their residents by name, and they create a very positive environment for all. Transitioning is never easy, but they gave Mom the time and space to transition with a lot of patience and love. We love visiting, and dining with food prepared by a great executive chef, Sami, who comes out to greet and knows everyone in the dining room. Sami also has the friendliest wait staff. Chef Sami makes Mom feel very special every time and is always checking to see if her meals are enjoyed because she wants to make sure the residents and guests are well nourished. She treats everyone like family. The new beverage machine she installed is amazing and Sami is always making changes to upgrade the dining experience for her family. To see Mom content and loved is proof that they know how to take care of the many challenges that come with caring for someone with dementia. When I made the initial visit, and heard the laughter and joy coming from the residents in the activity room, I breathed a sigh of relief, I thought, this is a good sign, my first impression was good. Once I was given a tour by Jennifer (who is our hero) and got to meet the staff and see the residents, it confirmed my first impression was right, and two years later, that has not changed. There have been promotions made in several key positions (Patrick, Jordan, Chris) but each one of them has continued the exceptional care I saw from day one. The fact they already know the residents and have proven they care for each one as if they were family is of such great comfort to us. I am so happy to write the care has not wavered since the changes. Mom has made good friends there and feels very loved by everyone there. We are so grateful Mom has a home with the Truewood family.
April 2024
For close to 2 years, I've been thankful that my mom is in a safe place, the Garden House at Truewood, where the caregivers know her and treat her like family. There are always flowers blooming when we walk through the patios, and comments and laughter from the residents participating in fun activities. We enjoy taking Mom to the dining room for lunch--the new chef, Sami, is kind and caring, serving a wide range of delicious dishes and fancy holiday banquets. She has upgraded the dining room with an easy-to-use coffee/espresso/hot chocolate machine and more. Her staff gets the food out quickly and sometimes with a song. Also, her kitchen scored 100% on inspection! (2024)
April 2024
After exploring numerous retirement communities, Truewood stood out as the most welcoming and affordable option in Seattle. Jennifer's exceptional dedication shines through her ability to cultivate meaningful relationships with residents, support staff members, and offer valuable insights during tours. Her warmth and expertise instilled in me the assurance that my grandmother would receive top-notch care and comfort at Truewood. I wholeheartedly endorse Truewood by Merrill, First Hill to anyone seeking a supportive community for themselves or a loved one.
January 2024
I beautiful facility and great food
August 2023
When I moved to Seattle I had never lived in a city before. While walking I came across Truewood and toured the property. I rented that day and was very happy I did. I felt so safe and protected. The dining room provided great meals so I didn't need to cook. I am independent but the building gave me a great sense of security and safety. I was among people that cared how I was doing. The staff is friendly and respectful. There's a wonderful sense of acceptance. I made many friends there. I did meet my new husband and since he was too young to live there, I had to move to a 55+ building. I would highly recommend Truewood by Merrill. They have a wonderful quality building with a staff that cares. They offer different levels of care that makes it a good fit for different levels of need. I had an incredible view of the downtown. The rooms are large and beautiful and high quality. Granite counters and designer colors and large windows made me feel very comfortable. Thank you to all the staff for making my time there wonderful. Phillis Price
September 2022
My husband and I moved to Truewood about 8 months ago. He is in memory care and I have a separate apartment. This allows me to visit him often, and it has turned out to be a very good solution for us. I've met many fun and interesting people and am enjoying getting to know Seattle.
August 2022
August 2022
May 2022
Nice spot located right in the center of the City!
November 2021
July 2020
Merrill Gardens, First Hill is a comfortable, inviting place to live. The patios, dining room, and other meeting rooms are enjoyable places to visit with friends and participate in activities.. The staff is helpful and bring a sense of joy to their work and this environment. I have lived here two years and I am glad to call this place home.
January 2020
WE LIVED IN SEATLE AND BAINBRIGE ISLAND. DO YOU HAVE A WAITING LIST? CAN YOU PUT US ON IT. WE ARE NOW IN ARIZONA AND WE WANT TO GET AWAY FROM THE HOT CLIMATE HERE.
November 2019
April 2019
I am advising anyone thinking to put their family member at Merril Gardens Firsthill to refrain from doing so.This is a place where caregivers are overworked,cutting care hours for profit.Nurses are useless living everything for caregivers to handle and management team is incompetent and disgruntled to handle situations,elevators are always broken living residents stranded on their floors.Hot water boiler is always out of order.
January 2019
October 2018
***** 5 star rating for Merrill Gardens at First Hill in Seattle. My mother-in-law moved into this senior living community in June 2017 at age 92. The staff takes excellent care of her, and I enjoy having delicious and healthy meals in the dining room. My family reserves the private dining room for special occasions when we have a large group. There are always beautiful flowers to welcome people at the entrance and the front desk staff are extremely friendly and helpful. There are several activities offered daily and it's easy to have their shuttle transport the residents to appointments.
January 2017
So far so good with my Dad. Friendly staff. Food available in dining room 7 am to 7 pm. Room costs lower than other places I looked. A number of activities each day.
November 2016
October 2016
May 2015
October 2013
Great location close to all the major health care providers (VM, Swedish, GH, Polyclinic, HarborView) and very close to the downtown retail core. Minor Avenue (the front door) is a wonderfully small, tree lined street...however the street is quite steep. The size of the facility is perfectly intimate, not large and impersonal like many facilites we toured. Staff is courteous and helpful. Staff ratio to tenants appears to be appropriate.
Rate and Review Truewood by Merrill, First Hill
Community Details
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Amenities and Services
Amenities
- Walking Paths - indoor
- Special Dining Programs
- Specialized Training for Caregivers
- Reminiscence therapy
- Computer room
- Outside patio garden
- Barber Shop
- Meeting room
- Free high speed internet
- Billiards lounge
- Main Street Common Areas
- Library
- Atrium
- Fireplaces in common areas
- Game room
- TV Lounge
- Free cable satellite tv
- Beauty Salon
- Butterfly garden / Hummingbird garden
- Piano / Organ
- Free Wi-Fi
- Raised gardening beds
- Movie Room / Theater
- Jacuzzi
- Religious Services: Catholic
- Visiting Chaplain
- Grocery shopping service
- Laundry service / dry-cleaning
- Housekeeping provided
- Activities Onsite
- Outdoor Common Areas
- Devotional Services Onsite
- Vegetarian
- Activities Offsite
- Beautician Onsite
- Indoor Common Areas
- Meals Provided
- Devotional Services Offsite
Services
- Property Convenient to Busline
- Complimentary Transportation
- Resident Parking Available
- Professional chef
- Special Diets: Low / No Sugar
- International cuisine
- Special Diets: Low / No sodium
- Vegan options
- Room service
- Special Diets: Gluten-free
- Private dining room
- Restaurant style dining
- Guest meals
- Anytime Dining
- Aging in Place
- Full Tubs
- Hospice Available
- Wheelchair Accessible Showers
- Respite Offered
Do you have questions? Speak to a local senior living advisor for free.
(800) 755-1458
Truewood by Merrill, First Hill Housing and Staff
Living Types Available
Staff
- Visiting optometrist
- ADL Assistance
- Dedicated concierge
- On-Site RNs / LPNs
- IADL Assistance
- Medication care managers / Medication Technicians
- Full time activity director
- Nutritionist / Dietician
- Visiting Nurse
- 24-Hour Awake Staff
- Visiting Occupational Therapist
- Nurses on Staff
- Visiting Podiatrist
- Visiting Physical Therapist
- Doctor on Call
- Visiting Dentist
- Visiting Speech Therapist
Not sure what senior living is right for you or your loved ones? Call us today!
(800) 755-1458
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Assisted Living Center is not affiliated with Truewood by Merrill, First Hill and does not guarantee the completeness or accuracy of pricing, photos, living or care available, services or amenities. All phone calls and form submissions are handled by our trusted partner A Place for Mom. Any information regarding Medicare and Medicaid is for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional advice. Please visit Medicare.gov or Medicaid.gov for more information.
Families and their loved ones are encouraged to do the following before deciding on a community.
- Schedule a tour and visit the physical location to make sure community description is accurate.
- Confirm with community manager that living and services required for you or your loved one's unique needs and budget are met.
- Check with state government websites for additional provider licensing and information.
If there is any information that is inaccurate or needs to be updated, please contact Assisted Living Center.
Assisted Living Center uses the term "assisted living" or "personal care" to inform users that a community provides assistance with some Activities of Daily Living (ADL's). It may not meet your state's legal definition required for that level of care.