Immediate Help & Crisis Support
If you believe a loved one is being harmed, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Below are trusted organizations and local resources that can help you report abuse, access support, and understand your options. If you believe you may have a legal case, contact us directly — your consultation is free and confidential.
Call 911
If an older adult is in immediate danger, call 911 first.
National Elder Abuse Hotline
Call or text 1-833-372-8311 — free, confidential support and guidance from trained specialists.
State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Crisis Line
For abuse or concerns involving residents of nursing homes or assisted living facilities, call the 24-hour crisis line:
1-800-231-4024.
California Adult Protective Services (APS)
Call 1-833-401-0832 (enter your zip code when prompted) to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elder or dependent adult living outside a care facility. Available 24/7.
LOCAL SANTA CRUZ COUNTY RESOURCES
Santa Cruz County Adult Protective Services
The County of Santa Cruz Human Services Department APS investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation of elders and dependent adults living in the community.
1-833-401-0832
santacruzhumanservices.org
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Santa Cruz & San Benito Counties Senior Network Services administers the local ombudsman program, which advocates for residents of nursing homes, skilled nursing facilities, and residential care facilities. Free and confidential.
(831) 429-1913
ombudsman@seniornetworkservices.org
seniornetworkservices.org
Senior Legal Services (Santa Cruz)
Free legal advice and representation for adults age 60 and older in Santa Cruz and San Benito Counties. Handles elder abuse, Social Security, Medicare, Medi-Cal, housing, and consumer cases.
(831) 426-8824 317
Soquel Avenue, Santa Cruz, CA 95062
seniorlegal.org
211 Santa Cruz County
A free, confidential service connecting Santa Cruz County residents to health and social services, including elder abuse reporting, senior services, and legal aid referrals.
Dial 211
211santacruzcounty.org
Seniors Council of Santa Cruz & San Benito Counties
Provides senior services, information, and community resources throughout the region.
(831) 688-0400
234 Santa Cruz Avenue, Aptos, CA 95003
seniorscouncil.org
Meals on Wheels — Community Bridges
Delivers daily meals to homebound adults in Santa Cruz County.
(831) 464-3180
communitybridges.org
Alzheimer’s Association — Santa Cruz
Local office offering resource referrals, care consultations, support groups, and caregiver education for those affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia.
(831) 464-9982 | 1-800-272-3900
550 Water Street, Building L-2, Santa Cruz, CA 95060
alz.org
STATEWIDE & NATIONAL RESOURCES
California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CANHR)
A leading advocacy organization fighting for the rights of nursing home and long-term care residents in California.
canhr.org
National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA)
Educational resources, research, and reporting guidance on all forms of elder abuse.
ncea.acl.gov
Eldercare Locator
A U.S. government service that connects older adults and caregivers to local services nationwide.
1-800-677-1116
eldercare.acl.gov
Family Caregiver Alliance
Resources, education, and support for family members caring for an older adult or loved one with a chronic condition. caregiver.org
Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
Elder Financial Exploitation Resources and reporting guidance for victims of financial fraud and exploitation.
consumerfinance.gov/consumer-tools/fraud
Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Report Fraud Report scams, identity theft, and financial exploitation at the federal level.
reportfraud.ftc.gov
Not Sure If You Have a Case? Let Us Help You Find Out.
Sometimes the hardest part is knowing where to start. We're here to listen and give you an honest assessment — at no cost and with no obligation.If you’ve reviewed these resources and believe a loved one may have been harmed by abuse, neglect, or exploitation, contact Forbes-Roberts Law for a free confidential consultation. We serve families throughout California and are ready to help you understand your options.