February 5, 2023
The holiday season stirs up favorite memories and makes thankfulness top of mind. As we gather in groups big or small throughout the coming weeks, the universal theme of gratitude is something everyone is thinking about.
Here at The Admiral at the Lake, we have much to be thankful for, especially when it comes to the incredible – and diverse – people who call our community home. Keep reading to learn more about how we’re making diversity a pillar of senior housing, and hear from some of the individuals who make our community the inclusive and welcoming place it is.
The diverse ways we celebrate the holiday season
A cornerstone of our community is the welcoming attitude of our team and residents. Diversity in senior living is a priority, and that means recognizing and celebrating all holidays. Our goal is to make people feel safe and able to share different traditions. We honor all types of winter holiday celebrations, from Christmas and Hanukkah to Kwanzaa and more.
Celebrating inclusivity all year long
The winter holidays are just one part of how we celebrate diversity year-round. This past June, residents and staff at The Admiral marched in the Pride Parade and operated a booth at Pride Fest to celebrate together and connect with other LGBT seniors.
Resident Ken Irvine shares he’s enjoyed the freedom to embrace his identity and connect with other LGBT people in part because of the staff’s efforts to create an accepting community.
“No one is hung up on whether you’re gay or not gay, and I’ve met other people who share my viewpoints,” Irvine says. “So I’m a happy camper here.”
An ongoing commitment to a diverse and inclusive community
The Admiral at the Lake staff has completed the SAGECare training program, which focuses on creating fully LGBTQ-inclusive services in the senior living community. This helps us ensure a diverse and inclusive environment at all times.
According to staff member Britney Vipham, “We want you to come as you are. You don’t have to pretend to be something you’re not. All we want is kind folks who want to get to know one another and get involved.”
What our residents are saying
Don’t take our word for it – here’s some recent feedback from a few of our residents about our senior living community.
“What attracted me here first was the people. I knew one couple who lived here who invited me for dinner. When I came, I found a dining room full of people talking to each other and having a great time – the vibe was very good.” – Toni
“I have lived here for eight years and have always felt warm, secure and happy. The residents are a wonderful group, and the staff responds well to such a mixed group. Everyone seems to work together to support our community that we call home.” – Kate
“The Admiral has a wide range of residents who have a lot of different interests. Several are interested in art, among other things. There are many ways here to get new information and meet new people.” – Jan
A place every senior can call home.
With a focus on diversity and inclusion, The Admiral at the Lake goes beyond a fulfilling independent lifestyle to provide long-term care for today’s seniors in the city of Chicago. Our Life Plan Community offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Support and Skilled Nursing. Contact us to learn more about life on the lake and the diverse individuals who call our community home.