Useful Information
SOCIAL SERVICES                 

If you become concerned about the physical or mental health of a neighbor, you can call Leisure World Social Services. In turn, they may be able to assist the neighbor and/or the family. All information provided to Social Services is confidential.

In general, Social Services are a valuable resource for a variety of problems faced by Leisure World residents and most of the services are free. For instance, did you know that:

• Social Services can help temporarily incapacitated residents, such as those coming out of the hospital, in locating medical equipment (Fish desk), home health aides, adult day care, meals on wheels, or transportation to medical services.
   
• Social Services can assist widows and widowers in finding resources to deal with the death of a spouse. These can range from obtaining assistance with paperwork such as paying bills or taxes, to obtaining help in overcoming grief or depression.
   
• Social Services can advise residents concerning such issues as the need for powers of attorney and advance directives (e.g., instructions to hospital staff) and can point residents to professionals who can further assist them in such matters.
   
• Social Services can also assist residents in finding appropriate medical specialists, or help them communicate with their physicians. The Social Services staff periodically visits and inspects area nursing homes and assisted living facilities and can aid residents in identifying suitable accommodations in such facilities for themselves or a relative.
   
• Social Services can interact with the families of residents. Family members should be told that this service exists in Leisure World and that they can consult with the staff about available assistance resources if they become worried about the physical or emotional wellbeing of a resident family member.

Social Services is staffed by three highly trained, accredited and licensed social workers. They are located in the Leisure World Medical Center building and can be reached by calling 301-598-1581. Social Services staff can also make "house calls" if a resident is unable to visit the offices.