Social Services

The Social Services Department has been serving the Community since 1972. Our mission is to help Laguna Woods Village Residents maintain independence and enhance their quality of life. Social work counselors are available for short-term counseling, crisis intervention, support groups, educational programs, long-term care planning and resource referrals. We take protecting your privacy very seriously. Our services are confidential, meaning that we will not disclose information about you to anyone who is not directly involved in your care without your written or verbal permission, or as required by law.

Contact the Social Services Department at 949-597-4267 if you are:

• Grieving the loss of a loved one
• Caring for an ill or aging relative
• Coping with a life changing diagnosis
• Making long-term care arrangements
• Feeling overwhelmed and stressed
• In need of assistance in your home
• Isolated and in need of a visitor
• Interested in a volunteer opportunity

Our Services

The Social Services Department offers many services to Residents of Laguna Woods Village. For more information, call 949-597-4267.

Assessments

Comprehensive in-home assessments administered by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Master of Social Work (MSW) or a Master of Social Work Intern (MSWI).

Support Groups

We offer a variety of support groups focused on issues such as caregiver support, bereavement, healthy aging, women’s issues, anxiety and mindfulness. These support groups are offered throughout the year.

Educational Seminars

We provide workshops and seminars on timely topics of health and wellness for successful aging throughout the year.

Short- and Long-Term Care Planning

Our social workers assist in developing plans for Residents’ future needs.

Counseling Services

We provide short-term counseling for Residents. Short-term counseling is goal driven and focused on immediate needs; it is usually completed within six to eight sessions. A referral to long-term counseling services will be provided if necessary.                                                      

Resources and Referrals

Our team is able to connect Residents to community programs and services, such as caregiver services, transportation, meal-delivery programs, mental health programs, dementia care programs, social engagement programs and much more. Call for more information. 

Friendly Visitor Program

Our Friendly Visitor Program offers ongoing socialization services to older adults in Laguna Woods Village. Services are provided to Village Residents who are less active to prevent social isolation, maintain independence and enhance their quality of life. 

How We Can Help

• In-home visitations
• Individual service care plan 
• Coordination of care
• Participation and family education 
• Short-term in-home counseling services 
• Referrals to resources

If you want a visitor or know of a neighbor or friend who would like company, please call 949-597-4267.

Volunteer Today! Become a Friendly Visitor

The Friendly Visitor Program is a volunteer program that trains active Village Residents to become companions to less-active Residents. It is designed to help prevent social isolation for Residents who can no longer join clubs and participate in activities. 

Volunteer Requirements

• Must be a Resident of Laguna Woods Village
• Ability to develop a sense of trust, rapport and sensitivity toward older adults
• Demonstrate good active communication skills
• Complete volunteer training and attend monthly meetings
• Be fingerprinted through the Department of Justice
• Commit to a minimum of 60 hours of volunteer service

To inquire about volunteering for the Friendly Visitor Program, call 949-597-4267.