Frequently asked questions regarding recognizing and reporting abuse, neglect and exploitation.
If you believe your loved one is being abused, neglected, or exploited, make an APS report here.
If the problem could be resolved with mediation or conversations with your provider’s management, the Ombudsman can help with that process.
Not if you don’t want them to. You have the option to remain anonymous.
Get in touch with your local department of social services here.
If you’ve filed a report with your local department of social services and have concerns with how it was handled, you can share your concern here and our team will look into it.
The APS Dashboard shows how local social services departments are doing in helping protect vulnerable adults.
Even if you just have a bad feeling about a situation but can’t verify details, our Adult Protective Services professionals are trained to investigate and make the appropriate determinations once a report is filed.
Learn more about potential signs of abuse, neglect and exploitation.
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- Your local social services department will evaluate the report for validity.
- Valid reports are investigated and a disposition made within 45 days (though longer investigation time is permitted if needed).
- If abuse, neglect, or exploitation is occurring, or the adult is at risk, services may be offered, which the adult may refuse or accept.
Please note, APS cannot sanction facilities or providers, and cannot control whether law enforcement opens a criminal investigation. Investigations are confidential — the local department may not be able to provide updates.