What is YANA?

We want our elderly, disabled and shut-in residents to know they are never alone. The You Are Not Alone (YANA) program is a free service for people who live within the jurisdiction of the San Diego County Sheriff's Department. It offers peace of mind and a sense of security for those who enjoy their independence but have no friends or family to check on them regularly. People in the YANA program are able to take care of their own day-to-day needs, but recognize that a medical crisis could render them helpless. The YANA program has been credited with saving the lives of many elderly adults who live alone and have fallen or become sick.

YANA Brochure

How to Enroll

The enrollment process is easy- call your local Sheriff's station or substation for more information and/or bring the YANA Enrollment Request Form to your local Sheriff's station or substation. 

How It Works

• Calls are made Monday through Friday before 10:00am
• A daily log is kept to verify that contact was made and to note any special requests or information such as doctor visits 
• If a YANA participant does not answer after three attempts, Sheriff's Senior Volunteer Patrol members will go to the participant's home to make sure they are not sick, injured or in need of help
• If Senior Volunteers Patrol members see a problem or still cannot make contact, a deputy is called to the scene and emergency medical assistance may be summoned.
• Each YANA member gets a weekly personal visit from Sheriff’s Senior Volunteer Patrol members. This brings a personal touch to the program. For some participants, the visits are the only social contacts they have. During the visit, volunteers check the YANA members well being. They also stay aware for basic signs of abuse whether financial, physical or even self-inflicted through general neglect or lack of resources. If needed, referrals are made to the County of San Diego’s Aging and Independence Services, as well as Adult Protective Services.
• Some Sheriff’s Stations and Substations offer birthday, Easter and holiday season visits with gift baskets.