AD Director Maral Karaccusian Highlights APS and Community Partnerships at VICA Event

Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) Director Maral Karaccusian joined fellow County leaders on June 11, 2026 for the Valley Industry & Commerce Association’s (VICA) annual County Officeholders Breakfast at the Garland Hotel in North Hollywood. The event brought together business, civic, and government leaders to discuss issues shaping the future of L.A. County and the San Fernando Valley.

Karaccusian participated in the L.A. County Department Director Panel alongside directors from the Departments of Homeless Services and Housing (HSH), Public Works (DPW), and Military and Veterans Affairs (MVA). The discussion focused on the importance of public-private partnerships and the role businesses can play in supporting the county’s most vulnerable residents.

During the panel, Karaccusian highlighted the critical work of Adult Protective Services (APS), which investigates reports of elder and dependent adult abuse and neglect.

“Our largest program is APS,” she explained. “If you suspect elder abuse or neglect, we have social workers who come out and investigate.”

Karaccusian noted that APS receives tens of thousands of referrals each year, a number she expects to grow as awareness increases. She encouraged business leaders to learn more about the program and recognize the important role they can play in identifying and reporting concerns.

“It’s really important to educate our business community about what APS does, why we’re here, and the resources available for people in dire need of assistance,” she said.

She also stressed the importance of remaining vigilant against financial exploitation of older and dependent adults.

“How many times have you seen a headline about an older adult or older couple losing hundreds of thousands of dollars to a scam? We should be investigating these instances,” Karaccusian said.

Closing her remarks, she encouraged business leaders to work together to help protect older adults.

“It’s a targeted demographic and a vulnerable population, so I think we have to coalesce around education and information,” she said.

The program also addressed recovery efforts following the Eaton Fire in Altadena. Supervisor Kathryn Barger reflected on the ongoing challenges facing residents and businesses as rebuilding continues.

“When I hear or meet a survivor, I get a little emotional because this is a journey,” Barger said. “Life goes on for people who survived, but every day is a struggle.”

Barger reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the recovery of both homes and businesses, reminding attendees that “it does take a village” to rebuild.

The event also featured discussions with the Los Angeles County Assessor and the Los Angeles County District Attorney on issues affecting the region.