Human Services Department

Adult Protective Services

What are some examples of abuse, neglect and exploitation?

Examples include but are not limited to:

• Causing intentional pain or injury
• Withholding or failing to provide medication, food or water
• Refusal of a caretaker to get medical treatment for the adult
• Physically restraining the adult as a means of punishment or for the convenience of the caregiver
• Use of the adults money for someone else’s benefit
• Sexual abuse
• Self neglect

Do I have to report situations that I know about?

Some persons are required by law to report suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation. These include: health care workers, social workers, emergency medical services personnel, mental health workers, law enforcement officers, employees of public or private agencies that serve adults and caregivers who receive pay for providing care to adults. All other persons can and should report suspected abuse, neglect or exploitation.

What happens when I make an Adult Protective Services report?

An Adult Protective Services Social worker will make a thorough investigation of the person’s situation to determine if protective services are needed. Our philosophy is to provide the least restrictive intervention necessary to protect the individual and to stabilize and help remedy the situation.

If I give my name when making a report, will it be released to anyone?

As a reporter of a suspected APS situation your name will be kept confidential, unless a court orders the reporter's identity to be revealed.

What happens if the adult does not want a social worker to help them?

All adults have the right to make their own decisions and to live the way they choose. If an adult who is reported to be abused, neglected or exploited does not want to talk to a social worker or does not want services that are offered, that is their right. A social worker can intervene against a person’s will only if a court decides that the person lacks the ability to understand and make their own decisions.

Where are APS investigations conducted?

Investigations are done wherever the adult lives – in their own home, a relative’s home, a group home, assisted living facilities, nursing homes, etc.

To obtain additional information about Adult Protective Services or to request services, please contact the Department of Human Services at 382-2000.