ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES

This Department also is mandated to investigate referrals involving adults 60 years of age and older who live in the community and who are alleged to be abused, neglected or exploited. The assigned social worker is responsible for meeting with the client to assess the alleged concerns and linking that client to appropriate services within the community, including but not limited to home delivered meals, in-home care, probate court and financial assistance.

Maltreatment of elders may be intentional or unintentional.  Some forms are the result of action or inaction on the part of the older person themselves which leaves them at risk.  Often, older persons neglect themselves by refusing supportive services, not taking their medication, or living in an unsafe or unsanitary environment.  Care givers may abuse, neglect, or exploit those for whom they provide care.