We are one agency with 3 programs: Ombudsman, HICAP and the Elder Justice Initiative.
Ombudsmen are state certified individuals who resolve the problems of residents of nursing homes and residential care facilities for the elderly. They provide an avenue for conflict resolution that may be otherwise unavailable to elderly residents who are victims of neglect and abuse. Ombudsmen representatives strive to ensure dignity, choice and quality of life for all individuals in long term care. Ombudsmen are a vital component of long term care services. They provide a voice for vulnerable seniors who may feel overwhelmed, fearful or ashamed to communicate problems of abuse and neglect, be it physical, sexual, emotional, verbal or financial.
HICAP, the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program, was established by the California Department of Aging in 1984. The program is designed to provide Medicare beneficiaries and persons 60 years of age and older with assistance in dealing with Medicare, HMOs, long-term care insurance, and other health insurance issues. Senior Advocacy Services - HICAP office assists people living or moving to Lake, Mendocino, Marin, Napa, Solano, and Sonoma Counties.
The Elder Justice Initiative strives to ensure seniors are safe and supported in Sonoma County with dignity, honor and respect. The Elder Justice Coalition is a collaboration of Sonoma County organizations unified in the common goal of elder justice.
