Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Home MenuPVE-CARES
In 2004, the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department designed a program called PVE-CARES (Care, Assistance, Resources, Education, and Socials) to address the rise in crimes against seniors, often referred to as elder abuse.
With the support of a dedicated group of community volunteers, the Police Department developed a reference file of residents age 65 and older. The purpose of this initiative is to conduct outreach visits to better understand individual needs and, when appropriate, connect residents with existing support services.
PVE-CARES serves as a referral hub between law enforcement and community organizations while promoting safety, dignity, well-being, and education to help seniors avoid becoming victims of elder abuse.
“By 2025, 1 out of every 4 Americans will be 65 years of age or older.”
When people think of abuse, they often think only of physical harm. However, California Penal Code Section 368 defines elder abuse more broadly and includes emotional harm, neglect that may endanger a person’s health or safety, and financial exploitation such as theft or embezzlement.
“Seniors lose $36.5 billion per year to financial elder abuse.”
Our mission is to provide education, available resources, and social opportunities so members may avoid becoming victims and continue living independently in their own homes for as long as possible.
PVE-CARES Events
PVE-CARES holds educational and social events throughout the year that promote safety awareness, encourage independence, and connect members with trusted community partners.
Events include, but are not limited to:
- Brain Games
- Informative Meetings
- Senior Health & Wellness Fair
- Thanksgiving Meals
- Be a Santa to Seniors
PVE-CARES Services
- Home Key Program: Allows participating members to securely provide the Police Department with a copy of their home key for emergency access only.
- File of Life: A free emergency preparedness tool that helps first responders quickly access vital medical information.
- Referrals: Members may receive referrals to trusted community partners and elder care resources when needs fall outside the services offered by PVE-CARES.
- Newsletter: Members receive updates about events, programs, and helpful information throughout the year.
Please note: the Conversation Companion/Social Call form is not included at this time.
Want to Help? Be a PVE-CARES Volunteer
Volunteers are caring community members who want to make a meaningful difference, build connections, and give back. Volunteer opportunities may include community events, direct engagement and companionship, and professional or administrative support.
Applications may be submitted online or in person to the Palos Verdes Estates Police Department. Once an application is submitted, a member of the volunteer team will follow up regarding next steps.
File of Life
If you are registered with PVE-CARES but have not received a File of Life packet, please contact the coordinator. This tool helps first responders access important medical information quickly when every second counts.
Contact Information
PVE-CARES / Palos Verdes Estates Police Department
(310) 378-4211
Emergency Preparedness and Community Outreach Coordinator
Kristen Jo
- Peninsula Seniors: (310) 377-3003
- Alzheimer’s Association: (323) 938-3379
- H.E.L.P.: (310) 533-1996
- Palos Verdes Transit: (310) 544-1708
To make access easier, all PVE-CARES forms are available below. Residents may complete forms online or download a printable version to submit in person or by mail.
New Member Registration
For new PVE-CARES members age 65 and older, or dependent adults ages 18–64, to provide contact, emergency, and support information.
Member Update
For current PVE-CARES members who need to update contact information, emergency contacts, spouse information, home visit requests, or program preferences.
Home Key Authorization
Authorize the Police Department to retain a home key for emergency access only, such as a welfare check or emergency response.
Volunteer Application
Apply to support PVE-CARES through events, outreach, companionship, or administrative assistance.
Protect Yourself From Financial Abuse
Financial abuse or exploitation is the illegal or improper use of another individual’s resources for personal profit or gain. It may include scams, theft of money or identity, failure to provide agreed-upon services, refusal to return borrowed money or property, or undue influence.
Do:
- Use direct deposit for checks
- Shred documents containing personal information
- Check your credit report annually
- Review your bank statements for unusual activity
- Keep money, PINs, and passwords secure
- Verify vendors and service providers before hiring
Don’t:
- Become socially isolated
- Respond to suspicious phone, internet, or door-to-door solicitations
- Hire help without checking references
- Sign documents you do not fully understand
Be Aware of Scams
Never give out personal information, especially your Social Security number, to unknown callers or solicitors. Never allow someone onto your property for unplanned work or service. When hiring someone, get multiple bids and verify credentials.
Health Tips
Healthy nutrition, regular exercise, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol, and maintaining social connection can all help support long-term wellness and independence.