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Orange County Board recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, urges reporting
Summary
The Orange County Board of Supervisors recognized World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, highlighted local APS caseloads and financial impacts of elder exploitation, and urged residents to report suspected abuse to the Adult Protective Services hotline.
The Orange County Board of Supervisors on the morning agenda recognized World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and urged residents to report suspected elder abuse.
During the presentation the board's speaker said adults 65 and older now make up more than 15% of Orange County’s population and estimated about 10% experience some form of abuse in a given year. The presenter cited a national estimate of approximately $28.3 billion in annual losses from financial abuse and said Orange County Adult Protective Services (APS) received “over 2,500” reports in 2024. Vice Chair Katrina Foley said Orange County is home to more than 690,000 seniors — roughly 17% of the county — and cited a separate county APS figure for 2024.
The board and county agencies urged residents to use the APS 24-hour hotline when they suspect abuse and to report concerns to law enforcement if there is an immediate threat. Todd Spitzer, the county district attorney, introduced senior deputy Tina Patel and described recent elder-fraud prosecutions, urging community attention to fraud targeting older adults.
The board’s recognition included a review of county services — including in‑home caregiver support, legal aid, and outreach programs — and a message that prevention and reporting can reduce harm to vulnerable adults. The board did not take formal policy action during the presentation; staff reiterated the county’s hotline and referral resources and asked residents to report suspected abuse.
The board moved next to other proclamations on the morning agenda.
