Ventura County Ombudsman Program

As in many things, being proactive is key to assuring that bad things don't happen or go on for a long period of time. With the elder population being proactive and educated on the most common types of abuse is pivotal.

One of the most common forms of elder abuse is neglect. But did you know that there are two forms of neglect?

Self-Neglect – Refusal or failure to provide himself/herself with adequate food, water, clothing, shelter, personal hygiene, medication (when indicated), and safety precaution.

Neglect by Others – Failure to provide the basic care, or services necessary to maintain the health and safety of an adult: this failure can be active or passive.

If you suspect elder neglect, it's crucial to act promptly in order to help the individual's access to safety. You can do this by reporting to the appropriate authorities.

If the elder is in immediate danger, call your local police department.
Adult Protective Services can provide assistance and safety for the individual.
Area Agency on Aging can help to find resources for both the elder and caregivers. Ombudsman Office can work to support residents in long term care facilities.

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We hope you consider joining us! We have two groups for your convenience.

East County on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays
1-3:00pm at the Goebel Center, 1385 Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks

West County on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays
1-2:30pm - Ombudsman Office, 2021 Sperry Avenue, Suite 35, Ventura

Every year on June 15, World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is commemorated in America and worldwide. Through WEAAD, the aim is to raise awareness about the millions of older adults who experience elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. As many as 1 in 10 older Americans are abused or neglected each year, only 1 in 14 cases of elder abuse ever come to authorities’ attention.

This month we will be providing educational aids on types of Elder Abuse, Signs & Symptoms to be on the lookout for, and How to Respond when you know or suspect elder abuse is happening.

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Did you know? Many chronic conditions once thought to be a natural part of aging can be prevented or managed through healthy habits like regular checkups, good nutrition, and physical activity.

This is quite something! Gary has been volunteering with the VC Ombudsman program for 20 years! He brings valuable insight, professionalism, and genuine care for our residents and his advocacy work each month.

Thank you, Gary for being in invaluable part of our team!

Here's to another 20, right?! 😉

As we honor their memory today, let us pledge that their lives, their sacrifices, their valor shall be justified and remembered for as long as God gives life to this nation.

Ronald Reagan

Championing your health involves being proactive — making healthy choices, staying active, and taking steps to prevent problems before they start.

This May, stay engaged in decisions that support long-term health and independence.

Caring for a loved one with dementia can bring profound emotional challenges. As you witness their gradual decline, you may experience anticipatory grief. This is a unique and often misunderstood form of grief that occurs when someone is physically present but cognitively or emotionally absent.

Our free-of-charge Dementia Grief Support Groups provide a safe, compassionate space where you can share your journey, connect with others facing similar experiences, and find tools to navigate this complex and emotional process.

Join us tomorrow from 1-2:30pm at the Goebel Adult Community Center - 1385 E Janss Rd., Thousand Oaks

Learn More & Let Us Know You're Coming:
ombudsmanventura.org/dementia-grief-support

Championing your health includes self-advocacy — speaking up about your needs, understanding your options, and making informed decisions.

This Older Americans Month, commit to taking charge of your well-being.

Every May, Older Americans Month celebrates the contributions of older adults and reaffirms our commitment to serving them. The 2026 theme, "Champion Your Health,” highlights prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging.

For more information on the Ventura County Ombudsmand program visit ombudsmanventura.org or for more on Older Americans Month ACL.gov/OAM