APS case managers work with victims of abuse, neglect or exploitation to employ the least restrictive intervention for adults who are in need of support and have the capacity to engage in decisions about their well-being.
If you have been the victim of abuse, exploitation, or neglect, you are not alone. Many people care and can help. Please tell your doctor, a friend, or a family member you trust, or call the Eldercare Locator help line immediately. You can reach the Eldercare Locator by telephone at 1-800-677-1116.
These are generally individuals who are involved with elders and dependent adults. This includes care custodians, health practitioners, law enforcement, paramedics, banks and fire fighters. Reporters must file an abuse report when they observe or suspect abuse.
Warning Signs of Elder Abuse Any unexplained injury, or an injury that doesn't fit with the given explanation. Situations where the elder is not given the opportunity to speak for herself or himself without the presence of the caregiver. Elders who become extremely withdrawn, non-communicative or non-responsive.
An APS caseworker will be assigned to investigate the report, visit the subject, and perform an assessment. A caseworker may be accompanied by local law enforcement. APS will determine if abuse has occurred and send a report to law enforcement.
Physical abuse is defined as any intentional act causing injury or trauma to another person through bodily contact. It is a deliberate act of force that results in harm, injury, or trauma to the victim's body. This can include a range of behaviours from hitting, slapping, and punching to more severe forms of violence.
Signs and indicators Low self-esteem. Feeling that the abuse is their fault when it is not. Physical evidence of violence such as bruising, cuts, broken bones. Verbal abuse and humiliation in front of others. Fear of outside intervention. Damage to home or property. Isolation – not seeing friends and family.