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Commissioners proclaim June 15 Elder Abuse Awareness Day; DHS urges reporting and support services
Summary
The board adopted a proclamation recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day; county Department of Human Services staff described adult protection work, and commissioners highlighted county programs that help seniors age in place and guard against exploitation.
The El Paso County Board of County Commissioners adopted a proclamation recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, 2026, emphasizing prevention and reporting of physical, emotional and financial abuse of older adults.
Jacenia Torres, division director for adult family services with the Department of Human Services, introduced Marita Coffey, an adult protective services supervisor, who described daily reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation and urged the public to report suspected cases. "This proclamation not only raises public awareness, but it reinforces the importance of reporting cases of abuse, neglect, and strengthens adult protection services efforts," Coffey said.
Commissioners responded with examples and program references. Vice Chair Lauren Nelson highlighted a county program funded through the El Paso County Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) in partnership with Brothers Redevelopment that helps older residents "age in place" by funding home modifications such as grab bars, ramps and accessible showers. Commissioner Williams and others shared personal stories of financial exploitation and stressed the county’s duty to protect vulnerable adults.
The board voted unanimously to adopt the proclamation. The resolution text included a statement that El Paso County is a state-designated alternative response pilot county, a status the proclamation said supports family-centered and individualized services to strengthen supports for at-risk older adults.
Why it matters: County leaders said recognition and community partnerships can improve detection and prevention of elder abuse and connect seniors to services that maintain independence. DHS staff encouraged residents to contact Adult Protective Services when they suspect abuse; the proclamation and staff remarks signaled ongoing county attention to elder-protection work.
