Helping Hand. -- A social worker assists two of the many clients that come into our offices every day. (Photo: C. Kamimura)

Since 1979, services to senior citizens have been a hallmark and a major priority of LTSC. With help from government and foundation grants, as well as generous contributions from the community, LTSC has been able to provide case management services, transportation, and various support groups. Seniors are assisted with help in negotiating with government agencies and interpretation of documents. In addition, our clients are given referrals for in-home services and respite care for older adults and the disabled, as well as for assistance with personal care, housekeeping and meal preparation.

The Nikkei Escort Program began in 1981 as a volunteer effort to provide translation services and transportation to medical and other appointments for seniors and the disabled. Clients are not only provided with transportation but are offered invaluable support and companionship during the long treks to and from appointments.

This participent-driven group has been meeting regularly for the past 20 years. As a testament to the bonds of the group, several long-time members are no longer caregivers of stroke victims but continue to meet and share with the group.

The loss of a spouse is traumatic, as only a widowed person can understand. With over 160 members, the Nikkei Widowed Support Group is a participant-driven group in existence for over 25 years that wishes to reach out and be of assistance. The group meets on the third Sunday of every month at a private home. They also have regular monthly breakfasts and lunches and occasional excursions.

This program was started in 1997 to respond to the needs of senior citizens who are socially isolated due to physical and/or psychological problems. Home-bound or "shut-in" seniors in our community often suffer alone and in silence, their medical problems exacerbated by cultural and language barriers that keep them from obtaining help. Through home visits and telephone calls, trained volunteers have provided emotional support to hundreds of senior citizens in the downtown Los Angeles, San Gabriel Valley, San Fernando Valley and South Bay areas.