LAKE COUNTY, Calif. –  Did you know that only 5 percent of seniors over 65 are in residential facilities?  

That means that the balance of seniors are still living on their own, in their own homes.

Many of these seniors have no family or family living nearby, belong to no organizations or groups and have few friends because they lack transportation or are unable to get out because of health issues.

There are many reasons why seniors find themselves isolated and alone.

The Friendly Visitor Program of Konocti Senior Support, Inc. is accepting applications for the spring Friendly Visitor Volunteer Training.

This training will provide volunteers with the opportunity to use their life experiences and provide companionship to homebound seniors.

Friendly Visitors meet with seniors they are matched with once a week for at least an hour to chat, play cards or just listen.

Friendly Visitor services are provided to seniors free of charge by the volunteers throughout Lake County.

Volunteer training consists of two days of training from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with lunch provided.

The training covers topics through instruction, discussion and participation in such areas as communication skills, stress reduction, addressing issues of depression and grief and setting healthy boundaries.

Training also provides participants with useful information which can be used in their own lives.

Konocti Senior Support Friendly Visitor training will be provided by Program Director Judy Morgan, and offered in Clearlake on Thursday, May 3, and Thursday, May 10, and in Lakeport on Wednesday, May 9, and Wednesday, May 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A stipend will be provided to cover mileage to and from training.

Help the Friendly Visitors help seniors throughout Lake County; call 707-995-1417 now for your application and more information and details.