June 15th is Elder Abuse Awareness Day. At Serving Seniors, we see every day why this work matters. Elder abuse takes many forms: financial exploitation, neglect, physical harm, emotional abuse, and housing instability. For older adults living on fixed incomes, even small increases in rent, loss of a caregiver, or unexpected medical bills can push them into situations where abuse becomes more likely.
Housing insecurity is one of the strongest predictors of elder abuse. When an older adult is at risk of losing their home, or has already lost it, they are more vulnerable to coercion, financial manipulation, and unsafe living arrangements. This is why homelessness prevention like shallow rental subsidies are not just a housing strategy, but an elder abuse prevention strategy.
Unhoused seniors in shelters face higher rates of neglect and exploitation. Strengthening protections for older adults in shelters is essential, one of the most effective steps we can take is to expand services and programs for age-friendly shelters so older adults can receive the care that they need.
This month, we honor the resilience of older adults and recommit to building a community where every person can age with dignity, safety, and respect. We invite our partners, policymakers, and supporters to join us in expanding prevention efforts — because no older adult should face abuse, neglect, or homelessness.
If you or someone you know is concerned about elder abuse, these local resources can help:
- Adult Protective Services (APS): 24/7 reporting line for suspected abuse or neglect
- San Diego District Attorney’s Elder Abuse Unit: investigation and prosecution of elder abuse cases
- Long Term Care Ombudsman Program: support for residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities
- Legal Aid Society of San Diego: free legal assistance for issues including financial exploitation, eviction defense, and benefits access
- San Diego Family Justice Center: services for older adults experiencing interpersonal or family violence
- Serving Seniors case management & housing stability programs: support for older adults facing housing instability, financial exploitation, or safety concerns
