If you become concerned, go over and knock on the door. Listen and offer your support. Get help from Adult Protective Services if you are concerned an adult may be self-neglecting. Call 911 if the person needs immediate medical attention or is in danger of immediate harm.
Elder Abuse can take many forms including physical abuse; verbal, emotional or psychological abuse; financial abuse and exploitation; sexual abuse; or caregiver neglect.
In Philadelphia, OAPS is run by the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). Reports may be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week by calling (215) 765-9040. Anyone can make a report, and reports are kept confidential.
How do you find a geriatric social worker who can help? Check with your county or city Area Agency on Aging or your state board of social workers. You can also ask your doctor or other care providers. If you use hospice services, they have their own social workers.
Employees and administrators of nursing homes, personal care homes, domiciliary care homes, adult day care centers and home health care are mandated by Act 13 of 1997 to immediately report any suspected abuse of a recipient of care to the Area Agency on Aging.
The Elder Justice Act defines elder abuse as the knowing infliction of physical or psychological harm or the knowing deprivation of goods or services that are necessary to meet essential needs or to avoid physical or psychological harm. “Elder” means an individual age 60 or older.
Elder Abuse can take many forms including physical abuse; verbal, emotional or psychological abuse; financial abuse and exploitation; sexual abuse; or caregiver neglect.
The PCA Helpline is an information and referral service that connects callers with programs, services, and resources available to Philadelphia residents who are age 60 and over or who are age 18 and over living with disabilities.
A conviction for misdemeanor elder abuse results in up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000. If the abuse victim suffers “serious bodily injury,” the charges become felony charges. Conviction for felony abuse against an elderly person results in up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
Elder Abuse and Neglect. If you or someone you know is elderly, age 60 or older, and are being hurt, you may want to talk to someone about it. You may be a victim of elder abuse that could include physical or emotional abuse, neglect, abandonment, or financial exploitation.