California Elder Abuse Prevention Foundation
Advancing elder abuse awareness across California
Bringing greater attention to elder abuse prevention, and to the safety and dignity of older adults throughout the state.
The Foundation
Noticing sooner, and knowing what to do next
Older adults deserve safety and dignity. Both depend on someone noticing when something is wrong, and on knowing where to turn once they do.
The Foundation works to bring elder abuse prevention into clearer view across California. That means plain information for families and caregivers, and steady attention to how older adults are treated in their homes and in care settings.
Know the signs
Has something changed, and does the explanation fit?
There is rarely one single sign. More often it is a pattern, or a change from how someone normally is. A bruise with a plausible explanation is just a bruise. A pattern of injuries with explanations that keep shifting is worth a closer look.
In how they seem
- New fearfulness, or pulling away from friends and family
- Someone who will not leave them alone with visitors
- A change in mood that nobody can account for
In their money
- Withdrawals or transfers nobody can explain
- A new person suddenly involved in money decisions
- Pressure to sign documents, or unpaid bills despite enough income
In their care
- Unmet needs for food, medicine, or clean clothes
- Medical problems that go untreated
- Living conditions that have become unsafe
None of these prove that abuse is happening. Many have ordinary explanations — bruising from blood thinners, weight loss from illness, withdrawal from depression or hearing loss. They mean it is worth asking a question. It is not your job to be certain before you call.
Why awareness matters
For every incident of abuse reported to authorities, nearly 24 additional cases remain undetected.
National Center on Elder Abuse, Research, Statistics and Data, citing Storey (2020).
That gap is why the work matters. Most cases come to light because somebody close by noticed a change and asked about it.
If something doesn’t seem right
You do not need proof, and you do not need to be certain. Which number to call depends on where the person lives.
They live at home
Adult Protective Services takes reports about older adults living in the community, day or night.
Statewide, 24 hours
They live in a care facility
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman handles concerns about nursing homes and assisted living.
California CRISISline
Someone is in danger now
If there is immediate risk of harm, call emergency services first and report afterwards.
Emergency
In the community
Notes on the Foundation’s community involvement across California, newest first.
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Foundation leadership speaks publicly on elder abuse risks
Steven C. Peck spoke publicly on August 7, 2026 about the risks facing a growing older population, and about recognizing warning signs earlier.
Foundation leadership
Steven C. Peck, Esq.
Steven Peck founded the Peck Law Group. His work centers on elder abuse and on neglect in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.
Adam J. Peck, Esq.
Adam Peck is a principal at the Peck Law Group. He represents older adults and dependent adults harmed in long-term care facilities.
Keeping elder abuse awareness visible
The safety and dignity of older adults deserve steady attention, not occasional notice. The Foundation keeps one place where awareness efforts and community involvement throughout California stay in plain sight.
