One of the greatest threats to full inclusion and equity for all ages is elder abuse. Elder abuse can take many forms, including physical, sexual, abandonment, isolation, financial, neglect, self-neglect, and mental suffering. Our growing aging population requires increased planning and coordination to prevent growing abuse.

Each California County has an Adult Protective Services (APS) agency to help elder adults and dependent adults when these adults are unable to meet their own needs, or are victims of abuse, neglect or exploitation. As of January 1, 2022, APS expanded to help elder adults age 60 and older (previously 65 and older). County APS agencies investigate reports of abuse of elders and dependent adults who live in private homes, apartments, hotels or hospitals. Services provided by APS include responding to reports of known or suspected abuse or neglect, conducting an investigation, and arranging for the delivery of services from available community agencies.

This indicator measures APS confirmed allegations of self-neglect by elder adults. For years prior to 2022, the data reflects cases involving adults age 65 and older. For years 2022 and later, the data reflects cases involving adults age 60 and older, consistent with the APS eligibility change.

Check out the Inclusion and Equity, Not Isolation Goal Page to explore dynamic visualizations and view more detailed data related to this topic.

To learn more about our data sources and methodologies, please see the Data Dashboard for Aging - About the Data Technical Guide.

• Adult Protective Services Program
• Elder & Disability Justice Coordinating Council
• UC Irvine Center of Excellence on Elder Abuse & Neglect