SAFE: Special Advocates for Elders

To support and advocate for the dignity, autonomy and safety of elder under or facing guardianship.

SAFE believes in treating elders with dignity and respect. Its volunteer advocates protect the interests of vulnerable elders in the guardianship process.

SAFE began in 1998 through a diverse group of people who were working with the elderly in Washoe County concerned with the way elders were being treated in the guardianship process. All too often elderly people were being swept up by the guardianship system because it was an expedient way to deal with someone who appeared to be unable to care for him or herself or who was not receiving proper care from another. By obtaining a court ordered guardianship, third parties were able to remove the elder from his or her home, take away his or her civil rights, control his or her money and make virtually every decision for the elder under guardianship. In many cases, the founders of SAFE observed that the elder was not any better off than before being under guardianship, and, in some cases, might be considered worse off. They were often virtually abandoned in substandard group living situations with no control over their money, their possessions or their medical care.

Since the founding of SAFE, its volunteer advocates have been recognized as a critical part of the guardianship process. SAFE has received nationwide attention. The American Bar Association’s Commission on Law and Aging recognized the SAFE program as a “Promising Practice Example,” one of just twelve programs nationwide to be so honored. Guardianship Judge David A. Hardy has said, “I cannot do the job I envision without SAFE.”

SAFE Open House: You’ll have a chance to observe the types of guardianship cases we work with and visit the SAFE offices for a brief introductory video. We will answer all of your questions about the elders we serve, the program, and the role of our volunteer advocates. This event is designed to show you what we do and why it’s so important. You will see how much these seniors need the help of SAFE advocates who protect them during the most vulnerable time of their lives.

SAFE Advocate Training: Comprehensive training which includes Medical & Social Issues related to aging; Communication with and relating to elders, especially those affected by Alzheimer’s & other forms of dementia; Developing investigative & communication skills; Orientation to guardianship & assorted legal issues; Exposure to community resources for seniors; and use of Advocate Training Manual along with interactive class sessions and presentations

Are you concerned and angry about vulnerable seniors being taken advantage of and wondered how you could help? Have you cared for your own family member as he or she aged and struggled with a loss of independence? Other seniors in a similar situation can use your help.  

SAFE, Special Advocates for Elders, offers people the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable elders who are under or facing guardianship. 

Seniors at Risk: When seniors have diminished mental capacity brought on by dementia, aging, injury, and other general losses and are no longer capable of functioning as independently as they have, they may need a guardian appointed by the court who is empowered to make decisions for them. Because of the seniors’ diminished capacity, they remain inherently vulnerable and are at risk of financial exploitation and general neglect. A guardianship judge may also appoint a SAFE advocate as an additional safeguard.  

Your Role as a SAFE Advocate: SAFE recruits, trains, and supports volunteer advocates to form one-on-one relationships with their assigned elder so that they can offer support, investigate the care they receive, assess their needs, and speak directly for their interests. SAFE exists to help protect vulnerable elders--A SAFE advocate works to protect the interests of the senior and to maintain his or her dignity, safety, and autonomy to the extent possible.