Adult Protective Services - Who Are They And How Can They Help?

Elder abuse is not something that should happen, though it occurs every day across the country. In fact, according to Adult Protective Services in California, there were nearly 110,000 reports of abuse across California in the 2006 to 2007 fiscal year.

What is Adult Protective Services? What does the organization do?

Adult Protective Services (APS) is an organization that protects older adults and those with disabilities from neglect, exploitation or abuse. The organization investigates reports that are filed by, or on behalf of, individuals who reside in places such as personal residences, hospitals and health clinics, as long as the accused is not a staff member.

For cases or reports of abuse that occur in a nursing home, residential facility or other long term care facility, they will need to be directed to the appropriate site's Ombudsman's office, which is administered by California's Department of Aging.

APS is designed to protect the elderly or dependent adults, regardless of their personal income levels. If you suspect that your loved one may be a victim of abuse, Adult Protective Services will assign a caseworker to help with the following:

Investigation – Who is the victim? Is there any evidence of abuse, neglect, or exploitation?

Reporting – Upon completing the investigation, the caseworker will begin reporting his or her findings to the appropriate authorities.

APS coordinates regularly with, and requires support from, various government agencies including public health and law enforcement, as well as the public.

How do you report elder abuse?

If you want to report elder abuse, please contact your local APS office by clicking here. You can also report abuse to your local law enforcement agency.

LA County residents can call (877) 477-3646 or (877) 4-R-Seniors. Orange County residents can call (800) 451-5155.

Summary

The elderly and dependent adults have the right to live in a safe environment, without fear of, or becoming a victim of abuse, exploitation or neglect. With that mission in mind, APS will work hard to investigate, report and coordinate services that are available to family members and help them through these difficult times.