Many services and programs attempt to reduce the incidence of financial, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse or intimidation of elderly people and dependent adults by members of their families or other caregivers.
Colorado law requires many professional groups to report abuse, neglect, and exploitation to law enforcement when they observe or become aware of the mistreatment. The professionals that fall under this law are considered “mandatory reporters.” This law also has legal penalties for mandatory reporters if they fail to report mistreatment.
Anyone who is concerned about the health and welfare of a senior or at-risk adult can contact a law enforcement agency to request a wellness check.
The following services are available specifically to help answer questions or provide assistance in these situations.
AARP ELDERWATCH
- (800) 222-4444 x2
- 303 E 17th Ave, #510, Denver, CO 80203
- Fights financial exploitation of older Coloradans through education and outreach and by providing information and referrals.
- www.aarp.org
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES, EL PASO COUNTY
- (719) 444-5755
- 1675 W Garden of the Gods Rd, Colorado Springs, CO 80907
- humanservices.elpasoco.com/adult-protective-services/
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES, PARK COUNTY
- (303) 816-5939
- 59865 Hwy 285, Bailey, CO 80421
- www.parkco.us
ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES, TELLER COUNTY
- (719) 687-3335
- (719) 686-5550
- 800 Research Dr, #100, Woodland Park, CO 80863
- www.co.teller.co.us/DHS/ProtectiveSvcs.aspx
AURORA MENTAL HEALTH AND RECOVERY
- (303) 923-2920
- 1537 Alton St, Aurora, CO 80010
- www.apdc.org
COLORADO COALITION FOR ELDER RIGHTS AND ABUSE PREVENTION (CCERAP)
- Contact by email only: info@ccerap.org
- 1575 Sherman St, Denver, CO 80203
- Provides education, training, and links to resources.
- www.ccerap.org
NATIONAL DOMESTIC VIOLENCE HOTLINE
- (800) 799-7233
- TTY (800) 787-3224
- PO Box 90249, Austin, TX 78709
- www.thehotline.org
OMBUDSMAN FOR LONG-TERM CARE, PPACG AAA
- (719) 301-6388
- 14 S Chestnut St, Colorado Springs, CO 80905
- Provides education and consultation about accessing long-term care. Advocates for residents of assisted living and nursing home facilities.
- www.ppacg.org
TESSA
- 24 Hour Safe Line (719) 633-3819
- (719) 633-1462
- 435 Gold Pass Hgts, Colorado Springs, CO 80906
- Confidential services to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.
- www.tessacs.org
VICTIM ADVOCATE PROGRAM, TELLER COUNTY
- (719) 687-9262
- 911 Tamarac Pkwy, Woodland Park, CO 80863
- www.city-woodlandpark.org