Frequently Asked Questions

May I bring an automobile?
Yes. Residents have complete freedom to come and go and may use their own automobiles. Merryvale provides local transportation; but, cab service, family and friends can be utilized as well.

What about my furniture?
Residents may bring their furniture/furnishings and decorate their suites to their particular tastes. Bedding, linens, standard light bulbs, tissue, toilet paper, soap and shower liners are provided. Furniture may be rented for convenience with short-term stays.

Are there laundry facilities?
Merryvale staff clean resident's laundry, both personal clothing and linens. Clustered suites have assigned laundry days. Residents put their laundry in baskets outside of their rooms for pickup. Staff wash, dry and iron as requested by the residents. A 24-48 hour return is guaranteed.

May I take my own medications?
Yes. The resident, physician and family member may be a part of this decision. Options include self-medication or with/under staff supervision. If staff monitors medications, they are required to be pre-packaged or "bubble packed" and labeled by pharmacist. Staff is well trained and follows a medication protocol that provides documentation and quality control. This system ensures proper medication support.

Could I stay for only a few days?
Yes. Merryvale offers flexibility for the senior. Seniors may come for a respite stay of a few days, for a short-term stay of weeks to months or for a long-term stay.

What if I need skilled therapy?
The resident's physician can order skilled services through a preferred home health agency. Nursing, physical, occupational, speech and respiratory therapy can be provided to the resident at Merryvale. Generally, these services are Medicare reimbursed.

Do I have to sign a contract?
No. A Resident Agreement is signed that includes full disclosure regarding all care, services, fees and guidelines. Residency is on a month-to-month agreement. If a resident leaves by choice, a 30-day written notice is required.

Are all services included in the monthly fee?
Yes. Basic service includes three delicious meals each day, basic assistance with activities of daily living, housekeeping, laundry, transportation, utilities (except cable TV and private phone), 24-hour watchful oversight by well-trained resident attendants, and a full activities program.

Does Merryvale utilize a specified physician?
No. Each resident utilizes the physician of their choice. We provide "Doctor Days" transportation to local physicians on Tuesday and Wednesday of each week. A family member is encouraged to go with the resident, if supervision is needed. A local podiatrist visits Merryvale on a quarterly basis to evaluate and trim nails. A dentist also visits the facility every six months and performs on-site treatment.

May my daughter or grandchildren have lunch with me?
Yes. We encourage family members to visit and share a meal with residents. A 24-hour reservation is requested. A minimal fee for breakfast, lunch and dinner meals is charged. For larger groups, we encourage a meeting with our Food Services Director to arrange special occasions, menus, seating, etc.

How is Merryvale licensed?
Merryvale is licensed by the Georgia Department of Community Health and is surveyed on an annual basis. We consistently receive excellent scores on our reviews. For the results of our last survey, please visit the www.dch.georgia.gov website.

Are special diets available for residents with diabetes or other special needs?
Yes. Special diets such as no added salt, low cholesterol, diabetic or others are available as needed and/or ordered by a physician.

What about shopping?
The Activities Director takes residents shopping bi-weekly. The local post office, banks and retail stores may be included in these trips.

What about church services?
Covington offers a rich diversity of churches and congregations. First Baptist Church of Covington hosts a weekly 10AM Sunday morning church service at Merryvale. Large print Bibles and hymnals are available. Residents may also drive their automobiles or have family/friends take them to local services, if preferred. Daily devotionals and weekly Bible studies are also provided.

What is "Aging in Place?"
This is a concept and service that allows and encourages a senior to remain in assisted living even when physical and emotional changes occur. A Level of Care assessment tool is utilized to measure care needs and interventions. Additional fees may be charged as the resident's needs change.

What happens if I become seriously ill?
An acute injury or illness would be addressed by calling 911. An emergency room visit or hospitalization might be necessary. If short-term rehabilitation is needed, the Discharge Planner at the hospital would work with the resident to select a specific, skilled facility. Merryvale's Executive Director or Resident Services Director would monitor the resident's progress and facilitate a return to Merryvale as soon as possible.

How will I pay for assisted living services?
Private pay, Long-Term Care Insurance, or VA Benefits.