(KRON) – The holidays can be difficult for people, especially those who may have lost loved ones in their lifetime. The California Department of Aging reminds elderly California residents of the Friendship Line. The Friendship Line, according to the Institute of Aging, is an emotional support phone line for older adults and adults living with disabilities.  According to a video provided by the Institute of Aging, the phone line serves as a “human-to-human connection.” Older individuals who are “lonely and socially isolated” are encouraged to contact the Friendship Line. Fake bankers scam elderly North Bay woman out of $20K The Friendship Line has been operating for more than 50 years and was founded by Dr. Patrick Arbore. Dr. Arbore began his career volunteering at San Francisco Suicide Prevention, where he saw the need for specialized support and intervention in elders, prompting him to found the Center for Elderly Suicide Prevention and Grief-Related Services and Friendship Line. Per the Institute on Aging, staff and volunteers respond to more than 11,000 inbound and outbound Friendship Line calls per month. The friendship hotline phone number is (888) 670-1360.