What is the role of Adult Protective Services (APS) in elder abuse cases?

The role of Adult Protective Services (APS) in elder abuse cases is centered on providing intervention services to safeguard vulnerable adults. APS is tasked with investigating reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older individuals, and their primary goal is to ensure the safety and well-being of these individuals.

When APS intervenes, they assess the situation, offer support, and connect elders with necessary resources like healthcare, social services, or legal assistance. Their focus is on the protection of elders and facilitating an environment where they can thrive free from harm.

In contrast, investigating home thefts in senior communities, providing financial aid to victims, and offering legal advice are not directly within the primary scope of APS. While they may engage with or collaborate with other organizations that handle these matters, APS primarily functions in the realm of safeguarding at-risk elderly adults from harm and ensuring their rights and needs are met through intervention.