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 Agingโs 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 Agingโs Center for Elderly Suicide Prevention and Grief-Related Services, and is accredited by the American Association of Suicidology.
This program serving the community is funded by the following:
Friendship Line
Center for Elder Suicide Prevention and Grief Services
March is Disability Awareness Month, a time to recognize the importance of inclusion, accessibility, and advocacy for people of all abilities.
At IOA, we believe that everyone deserves dignity, respect, and support to live life to the fullest. Letโs work together to build a more accessible world.
#DisabilityAwarenessMonth #InclusionMatters #IOACares
Being a caregiver is rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming. Whether youโre caring for a parent, spouse, or loved one, small changes can make a big difference in both your life and theirs. Here are 5 essential tips every caregiver should know! ๐
โ Prioritize Self-Care: You canโt pour from an empty cup. Make time for rest, healthy meals, and stress management.
โ Seek Support: You are not alone. Connect with other caregivers, join a support group, or reach out for professional help.
โ Encourage Independence: Let your loved one do what they can. Small tasks help maintain dignity and confidence.
โ Plan for the Unexpected: Have a backup plan for emergencies, and keep important documents easily accessible.
โ Celebrate the Small Wins: Every smile, every moment of connection, every step forward counts.
Caregivers, whatโs one tip youโve found most helpful? Share below!
#CaregiverSupport #AgingWithDignity #SelfCareForCaregivers #InstituteOnAging
๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฒ๐ด๐ถ๐๐ฒ๐ฟ ๐ง๐ถ๐ฝ: ๐ฆ๐๐ฝ๐ฝ๐ผ๐ฟ๐๐ถ๐ป๐ด ๐๐ต๐ฒ ๐๐ป๐๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ป๐ฎ๐น ๐๐น๐ผ๐ฐ๐ธ ๐ถ๐ป ๐๐ฒ๐บ๐ฒ๐ป๐๐ถ๐ฎ ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ฒ
Did you know that dementia can disrupt a personโs internal clock, or circadian rhythm? This can affect sleep, energy levels, and daily routinesโbut as a caregiver, you can help reset and maintain that rhythm.
Alexandra Kaplan, IOAโs Lead Caregiver Coach, shares simple ways to help:
โ๏ธ Morning: Open blinds, turn on lights, and play energizing music.
โ๏ธ Evening: Dim lights, play calming music, and offer relaxing activities like tea.
โ๏ธ Throughout the day: Keep a consistent routine with activities that bring purpose and meaning.
How do you help your loved one maintain a daily rhythm? Share in the comments!
#CaregiverTips #DementiaCare #CircadianRhythm #CaregiverSupport #IOACares
The Hidden Toll of Caregiving: Lessons from Gene Hackmanโs Wifeโs Journey ๐
The emotional, physical, and financial strain of caregiving is often overlooked, yet it affects so many. The story of Gene Hackmanโs late wife, Betsy Arakawa, brings attention to the hidden struggles caregivers face every day.
Raising awareness and ensuring caregivers have the resources and support they need is more important than ever.
๐ก Read moreโlink in bio.
#CaregiverSupport #TheHiddenToll #AgingWithDignity
Institute on Aging (IOA) CONNECT is your direct line to us and the starting point for help with your concerns about the needs of older adults and adults with disabilities. IOA CONNECT links you with our services, as well as community services available. Reach out to connect with us.
Phone:ย (415) 750 – 4111 | Fax: (415) 750 – 5338
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