Larry “Gene” Brent


Larry has been a resident at The Pointe for 14 months. Prior to moving to The Pointe, he had been dealing with several serious health issues and was on many different medications. Due to medication mismanagement his health was suffering even more. Despite at-home care twice a week, Larry’s overall health deteriorated. After a cooking accident that resulted in Larry burning himself, his family convinced him to seek out a supportive living community. 


Larry was born and raised in the Chicago area, but traveled extensively later in life. He served in the US Army and traveled all over Europe and Asia and fought in the Korean War. He was an excellent marksman and received many awards for his performance. As much as he liked traveling and seeing the world, Larry believes that America is the most beautiful country. After serving in the army, he returned to the states and worked as a salesman at an insurance company. This job kept him on the road and caused him to relocate to Michigan, Ohio, Missouri, Texas and Wisconsin. He loved his job and loved being his own boss. Larry also was a DJ at a local radio station in Maywood, IL when he was younger. JET magazine did a story on him that he is very proud of to this day.


Larry was married for 10 years before losing his wife to cancer. Though he never had any children of his own, Larry’s nieces and nephews remember him as being very generous when he would come to visit. The family has always remained close and takes care of each other. They visit often and are very involved in his health care, working closely with his doctors. Since his arrival at The Pointe, Larry’s health has improved considerably. With the help of the food service department, he participates in the meal management service and he no longer needs insulin shots for his diabetes. He has also qualified for glaucoma surgery after having been told by his doctors that he was not an acceptable candidate due to not healing properly from the retina surgery he underwent earlier. Before moving here, his eyes weren’t healing because the drops weren’t being taken as directed. The Pointe’s nursing staff created a regular medication schedule and made sure he adhered to it. Larry, as well as his family, is very excited that he will get the surgery that will help restore his sight. He has also enjoyed the social aspect of living in a supportive living community. “I’ve made so many friends here and I’m glad this is my home.” He went on to say that he really likes the fact that he has all of his meals prepared for him and assistance to keep his home clean. Now that he feels better, he is able to get around more and was one of the first ones to arrive for the Super Bowl party that was held recently for the residents.


Everyone at The Pointe is happy and proud of Larry’s improvement. He and his family have been a great addition to our community.