A Safer, Stronger L.A.: How the County is Protecting Older Adults and People with Disabilities

In honor of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department hosted a virtual event aimed at informing the public and service providers about the wide array of programs available to support older adults and individuals with disabilities.

The webinar opened with welcoming remarks from the department’s director, Dr. Laura Trejo. She emphasized the importance of recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day as a vital moment to shine a light on elder abuse, calling it both a public health and human rights issue.

“Here in Los Angeles County, we believe that dignity doesn’t retire,” Dr. Trejo said. “That’s why our department is committed to raising awareness, expanding resources, and empowering all of us in our communities to recognize and prevent elder abuse.” She encouraged everyone to join the countywide efforts by wearing purple on June 15th to help spread the message that elder abuse is preventable and that we all have a role to play.

The event featured leaders from multiple branches within the department, who provided an overview of key initiatives addressing safety, access, and well-being. Topics ranged from protective services and caregiver support to wandering prevention and transportation assistance.

Cinthie Lopez Paz, representing the Disability Services and Supports Branch, spoke about L.A. Found, a countywide program designed to assist families and caregivers of individuals with cognitive conditions who are at risk of wandering. She highlighted how the program combines technology, inter-agency coordination, and public education to prevent crises and keep vulnerable individuals safe. Lopez Paz also discussed the New Freedom Transportation program (NFT) tailored for older adults and people with disabilities, helping to remove mobility barriers that often contribute to social isolation.

In addition to safety and access, the department emphasized the importance of timely information and referral services. Through its Information & Assistance team, the department connects residents to community-based services, responds to constituent needs from the Board of Supervisors, and engages the public at outreach events.

The webinar also spotlighted the work of the Los Angeles County Commission on Disabilities (LACCOD), which serves as an advisory body to the Board of Supervisors and County departments, advocating for equity, inclusion, and independence to ensure that the needs and rights of individuals with disabilities are recognized and supported.

Dr. Patrick Anyawoke of Adult Protective Services (APS) shared best practices for identifying and reporting suspected elder abuse or self-neglect. He encouraged attendees, especially mandated reporters, to act on concerns early—even in complex cases where issues like poverty or autonomy may complicate the picture. APS accepts reports through its web portal or by phone via the County’s 2-1-1 hotline.

Nutrition and caregiver support programs were also discussed, including home-delivered meals, congregate dining options, and resources to help family caregivers access respite services and educational support. These services, available across both the City and County of Los Angeles, are part of the broader mission to support aging in place and improve quality of life.

The webinar concluded with a recognition of the department’s social workers and frontline staff for their ongoing efforts in addressing and preventing abuse across the county.

“We hope today’s discussion helped raise awareness about elder abuse and informed you about how the county is working to prevent it,” Lopez Paz said in closing. “We deeply appreciate the work of our social workers who are out there every day, supporting those in need.” Watch the recording here.

For more information about the County’s aging and disability programs, please visit ad.lacounty.gov or call 1-800-510-2020.