I've been here since Oct. 2024. Staff are friendly and caring. Everyone learns your name within a day and address you by name and not any usual "fake sweet names" reserved for elderly. I have only one complaint and it's a big one. The food is terrible. It is inconsistent as though a bunch of unqualified staff are helping out in kitchen. The mashed potatoes or whatever are too salty, too spicy, to eat? Chef says, "sorry, "they" get carried away sometimes."
For the amount we pay, I don't expect a restaurant meal every day but very close to it. The cheapest frozen cuts of meat are used, the meatloaf, Salisbury steak texture is that of dry cardboard. One time Salisbury steak was served. It was a 4x4 less than 1/4 quarter inch slice of something. Vegetables all seem to be frozen and is always squash and carrots w/onions or broccoli, cauliflower and carrots, either under or over cooked green beans. We must'nt forget the corn!
The menus rarely change, seems to alternate between 2 or 3 standard menus. On weekends there is a lot of hot dogs (chicken), sloppy joes, etc.
My biggest concern other than not enjoying food anymore is the nutritional values. I'm diabetic, never had a problem with keeping in control with diet. However when served a meal of 4 baby back ribs (little actual edible protein) with sides of Mac and Cheese, Potato salad and Corn, keeping diabetes in control becomes a chore. My solution is to prepare as much as possible in my microwave and feed myself. That isn't working. I've been dealing with horrible diabetes symptoms and am in process of working with my doctor to fix it.
Another major problem with my use of the dining room is I'll be fine at start of mealtime, however, they're so short staffed that sometimes it takes almost an hour to get food by that time, I'm in diabetic hell. I don't require special food or services. Just better.
TruWood by Merrill Family needs to loosen their pocketbook and buy better quality, perhaps more qualified kitchen staff, more serving staff and try a little food diversity. Just cause we're old doesn't mean we're stupid. We know when things should be better.
Furthermore, they have a monthly meeting with Chef and facility general manager for residents to air their complaints. I've attended and spoken out. All we get are excuses and platitudes. I'm not the only resident to complain about the food. Admittedly it's better than having to do it yourself, however, it needs to be done consistently well, served quickly, salad should be fresh, soup should be hot. If you're gonna do it do it properly.
Other than the food quality and inconsistency,shortness of staff in kitchen and serving there are no reasons to hesitate to put yourself or family member here. It's a welcoming place with interesting activities. read more