ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES
Definitions of Terms | Information and Referrals
Protect a National Treasure | Reporting to APS
Special Circumstances
Protect a National Treasure - Elder Citizens
Everyone has the right to be free from abuse and neglect. However, it does occur in varying degrees of frequency and intensity and comes in a variety of forms: Physical abuse, abandonment, abduction, financial abuse, isolation, neglect and mental suffering.
If you think that you - or an elderly or dependent adult - is being victimized, report it to Adult Protective Services (APS). If it is an emergency, call 911 immediately.
Who are the abusers?
Abusers may include family members, paid caregivers, friends - anyone who may be dependent on the elder for shelter or employment and is experiencing stress or alcohol/drug, financial or emotional problems.
How to identify signs of abuse / neglect
Physical appearance - The victim is untidy, dirty, unshaven or appears to have lost weight. Bruises, burns or other pressure marks may be indicators of abuse.
Environment - The yard is a mess, pets are unattended or the house is dirty or in need of repair.
Changes in Behavior - Confusion, extreme forgetfulness or fearfulness. Withdrawal, depression or need of medical attention may be indicators of problems in the environment.
Financial Condition - Demonstrates extreme confusion about money matters, gives away money or belongings randomly, fails to pay bills or purchase needed food/clothing, is easily persuaded to sign away property or control of assets.
Family History - If the family has a history of substance abuse or generational abuse/neglect, the home situation may be conducive to elder abuse.
Who are the victims?
Anyone age 65 years or older is defined as an elder. Dependent adults are persons who have physical or emotional limitations which restrict their ability to protect themselves and are between the ages of 18 and 64 years old.
What is the law?
Welfare & Institutions (W&I) Code 15630 mandates that any person who has assumed full or intermittent responsibility for the care or custody of an elder or dependent adult, with or without compensation, must report any suspected abuse or neglect as soon as possible and follow up with a written report (Report of Suspected Dependent Adult/Elder Abuse, SOC 341) to APS within two working days. Report forms may be obtained from APS.
Additionally, any concerned person may report adult abuse/neglect and may do so anonymously (W&I Code 15631). APS does not reveal the source of any abuse report. Reporters are often the best collaborators with APS in making a protective intervention and planning to change an undesirable situation.