Friendship Line

Are you feeling lonely, isolated or depressed? Give the Friendship Line a call – because sometimes we all need a friend.

888.670.1360

The Friendship Line is California’s largest warm line, and has never gone unanswered since it was founded in 1973 by Dr. Patrick Arbore. Dr. Arbore’s observation that “connection to others binds us to life” led him to establish the Friendship Line, which provides phone calls that offer emotional support and friendly conversation.

Institute on Aging’s staff and volunteers respond to more than 11,000 inbound and outbound calls per month. The nationally-known Friendship Line is a signature program of Institute on Aging’s Center for Elderly Suicide Prevention and Grief-Related Services, and is accredited by the American Association of Suicidology.

Call us Toll-Free in California: 888.670.1360

For Volunteer or Intern Opportunities, contact Aleks Bartlett at abartlett@ioaging.org

This program serving the community is funded by the following:

  • The California Department of Aging

  • City of San Francisco’s Department of Disability and Aging Services

Program Services

Friendship Line

  • Emotional support in English, Spanish, Cantonese, Mandarin, Tagalog, Vietnamese and Korean
  • Specialized support for adults ages 60 and older, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers

Center for Elder Suicide Prevention and Grief Services

  • Virtual grief and bereavement support groups

Related Resources

🏳️‍🌈 Pride at IOA

Last week, we raised the Pride flag at our headquarters to kick off Pride Month—a visible reminder of our ongoing commitment to inclusivity, dignity, and respect for all.

At IOA, we believe aging with pride means being seen, supported, and celebrated—exactly as you are.

💙 To our LGBTQ+ community: You belong here.

#PrideMonth #InclusiveAging #IOACares #AgingWithPride #LGBTQSupport
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IOA adapts as your loved one’s needs change, including dementia and Alzheimer’s care services that evolve with the journey.

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🎨 Solo Exhibition: Bob Sockolov at @caldwellsnydergallery

We’re proud to share that Bob Sockolov, Institute on Aging’s Honorary Lifetime Director, will be featured in a solo exhibition from June 13–16 at Caldwell Snyder Gallery in San Francisco.

📍 341 Sutter Street, San Francisco
🗓️ Reception: Saturday, June 14 | 4–6 PM

Bob’s work—deeply inspired by the Bay Area’s scenery and skyline—has evolved over decades of self-taught experimentation. This exhibition offers a rare glimpse into his perspective on the city and its transformation.

🧡 All proceeds from artwork sales will benefit Institute on Aging, supporting older adults and caregivers in our community.

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A Place to Thrive—Surrounded by Nature’s Beauty 🌿

At IOA’s Enrichment Center in the Presidio, older adults with dementia find comfort, creativity, and connection among the peaceful landscapes of the Presidio.

Engaging activities, social connections, and a serene environment help residents feel safe, inspired, and at ease.

Learn more—link in bio.

#DementiaCare #EnrichmentCenter #CreativeAging #AgingWithDignity #IOACares