Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services (APS)

Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services (APS) is a key agency dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable adults, including the elderly and dependent adults, from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. APS plays a vital role in ensuring that these individuals receive the protection and care they need, particularly when they cannot advocate for themselves due to physical or cognitive limitations.

Mission and Services of APS

The primary mission of APS is to protect older adults (65 years and older) and dependent adults (ages 18-64 who have physical or mental limitations) who are unable to meet their own needs or who are at risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. APS provides a range of services, including:

1. Investigation of Abuse and Neglect Reports: APS investigates allegations of abuse, neglect, and exploitation involving vulnerable adults. These investigations are handled with sensitivity and confidentiality, ensuring that the rights and dignity of the individuals involved are preserved.
2. Crisis Intervention: APS offers emergency services to protect at-risk adults from immediate harm. This can include arranging for emergency shelter, medical care, or other urgent needs.
3. Case Management: APS provides ongoing case management to help at-risk adults access necessary resources and services, such as housing, medical care, and legal assistance. This may involve coordinating with other agencies and service providers to create a comprehensive care plan.
4. Advocacy: APS advocates on behalf of vulnerable adults to ensure their rights are protected and that they receive the care and support they need. This can include working with law enforcement, legal professionals, and healthcare providers to address the specific needs of the individual.
5. Education and Prevention: APS also focuses on educating the public and professionals about the signs of abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Through outreach and training, APS aims to prevent abuse before it occurs by raising awareness and promoting early intervention.

Reporting Abuse to APS

Anyone who suspects that an older adult or dependent adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited can report their concerns to APS. Reports can be made anonymously, and all reports are taken seriously, with a thorough investigation conducted to determine the validity of the claims.

To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation, individuals can contact APS through the following methods:

• Phone: Call the 24-hour hotline at (877) 477-3646. This number is also used for the Elder Abuse Hotline, making it a central resource for all reports of adult abuse in Los Angeles County.
• Online: Reports can be submitted online through the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) website. The online form allows for detailed reporting and can be done anonymously.

What Happens After a Report is Made?

Once a report is received, APS will:

1. Conduct an Investigation: A social worker will investigate the situation by interviewing the vulnerable adult, the alleged perpetrator, and any other relevant parties. They will assess the individual’s living conditions, physical and mental health, and overall well-being.
2. Determine the Need for Services: Based on the investigation, APS will determine if the individual needs protective services and what type of assistance is required. This could include medical care, relocation to a safer environment, or legal intervention.
3. Develop a Care Plan: If services are needed, APS will develop a care plan tailored to the individual’s needs. This plan may involve coordinating with other agencies, family members, and service providers to ensure the individual’s safety and well-being.
4. Follow-Up: APS will monitor the case to ensure that the individual continues to receive the necessary care and that the risk of abuse or neglect is minimized.

Collaboration with Other Agencies

APS often collaborates with other agencies, including law enforcement, healthcare providers, legal professionals, and community organizations, to provide comprehensive support to vulnerable adults. This multi-disciplinary approach ensures that all aspects of the individual’s needs are addressed, from medical care to legal protection.

Conclusion

Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services (APS) is a critical resource for protecting vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and exploitation. By providing investigation, crisis intervention, case management, and advocacy, APS plays a central role in ensuring the safety and well-being of some of the county’s most at-risk residents. If you suspect that an adult is being mistreated, do not hesitate to contact APS at (877) 477-3646. Your report could be the key to protecting someone from harm and ensuring they receive the care they need.