Is true love real?

In celebration of Valentine’s Day, residents at Sunrise Senior Living in Westmont and Prospect Heights shared their heartfelt advice on love and relationships, offering their perspective on the timeless question: Is true love real and if so, can it last?

Of the 33 residents surveyed, a remarkable 97% believe in the power of true love, including Phil and Marilyn, a couple from Westmont who have been happily married for 73 years.

Phil & Marilyn’s love story

Phil first spotted Marilyn while walking down the street nearly 80 years ago. His heart skipped a beat. Though shy at first, he eventually found the courage to strike up a conversation. After meeting again at a dance, their connection blossomed. “I gave my heart to my wife 73 years ago,” Phil recalls.

A retired Marine, Phil married Marilyn while on a three-day leave from his station in Washington, D.C. Since then, they have stood by each other through thick and thin—celebrating life’s joys and supporting each other through its challenges. Today, their love remains as strong as ever. Every day, Phil takes a short walk to visit Marilyn, who lives in the memory care neighborhood of the same building. Together, they hold hands, share meals, and laugh, cherishing the simple moments that have deepened their bond over decades.

Rich & Barb’s eighth-grade beginnings

Rich and Barb’s love story began when they were just in eighth grade. However, it wasn’t until after high school and while in college that they tied the knot. Reflecting on 55 years together, the couple spoke with Sunrise’s Activity and Volunteer Coordinator Agnes Dziuba. “Their journey through the joyful chaos of parenthood, their shared dreams, and even their differences created an unbreakable bond," Dziuba said. "Their love was tested by life’s ups and downs, yet it endured, thriving in the face of every challenge.”

Survey results
With more than 1,000 combined years of marriage wisdom, these couples and 27 other residents from Sunrise offered valuable insights about what it takes to make love last a lifetime. Here’s what they say:

1. Honesty is the best policy

For 39% of respondents, honesty is the cornerstone of a lasting, happy marriage. Close behind were love (33%), respect (27%), and communication (22%) as essential ingredients for a strong relationship.

2. Put down the phone, pick up the pen

When asked about the most romantic gift they’d ever received, many residents shared that love letters held a special place in their hearts—right after wedding or engagement rings. Other memorable gifts included a toolbox, a kiss on the cheek, the joy of learning they were pregnant, and seeing her husband's excited reaction.

3. Is love at first sight real?

While only 40% of the surveyed residents believe in love at first sight, a resounding 91% of those who do believe it can last a lifetime.

4. Love is ageless

An overwhelming 81% of respondents agree: You’re never too old to fall in love.

5. Dating advice for today’s generation

When asked what advice they’d give their younger selves before getting married, the seniors had some insightful (and sometimes humorous) tips:

• Don’t marry before 26
• Go to college first
• Learn to say “Yes, dear”
• And, most importantly, “check their teeth!”

Sunrise of Prospect Heights is a premier senior living community that offers assisted living, memory care, and short-term stays. A dedicated team of trained professionals provides individualized care and daily support to help residents live as independently as possible for as long as possible in a friendly and engaging community. Assisted living offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom apartments. Studio and companion suites are available in the memory care neighborhood. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call 847-818-1808 or visit the Sunrise of Prospect Heights website.