How to Make a Referral to Adult Protective Services

Each state provides protection of at-risk elderly or disabled adults through Adult Protective Service (APS) programs. Although these state run programs differ in some respects, they all provide help to elderly or disabled adults who are abused, neglected or being exploited. You can do your part by making a referral to Adult Protective Services when you know about an individual needing help.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Ask yourself who is in need of protection. Regardless of age, learn whether the person has a mental or physical impairment that makes self-care difficult. Often, people who need Adult Protective Services live alone and just need a caseworker to refer them to community based services for help with food, housework or health reasons.
2. Understand what the problem is before making the referral. "Something is just not right" is not enough of a reason for caseworkers to investigate. Look for specific signs of abuse or neglect that you can mention in your referral.
3. Remember that people suffering from a mental impairment are more likely to become financial exploited by others, including family members. Some elderly people feel intimidated by caregivers as well. These are grounds for a referral to Adult Protective Services.
4. Find the referral number for APS through your state or county Department of Human Services office or a law enforcement office. Some states accept Internet referrals as well.
5. Provide as much of the following information to the intake worker as possible: the name, address and phone number of the victim; personal information about the victim, such as age and health problems; the reason for your referral; information regarding any persons who are taking advantage of the victim.
6. Give your name and contact information, if possible. While Adult Protective Service agencies accept anonymous referrals, it helps investigations when the referring party can substantiate incidents. APS workers should keep referrals confidential.

Tips & Warnings

• When the person needing a referral is a member of a specific Native American tribe, check with tribal officials about tribal Adult Protective Service programs.