Adult Protective Services (APS)
DSAS is the mandated provider of adult protective services in Cuyahoga County. The intent of the adult protective services is to protect and assist adults 60+ who may be victims of abuse, neglect, self-neglect and/or financial exploitation. APS is mandated by the Ohio Revisied Code (Section 5101.60 and 5101.71). Allegation of abuse concerning vulneralbe adults 18+ are investigated on a voluntary basis.
Click here for 2009 statistics on elder abuse from the
Department of Senior and Adult Services.
Services Provide by APS:
- Investigation of adult abuse allegations by an APS social services worker
- Same day response in cases of emergency
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Once a case is substantiated, social services workers provide case management, including referrals to community services, such as home support, temporary shelter, meals, medical care, financial counseling and more.
Calls to the Elder Abuse Hotline at (216) 420-6700
are accepted 7 days a week, including holidays.
What to Report
- Your name and phone number if you are comfortable doing so. Anonymous reports are also accepted.
- Name, address, and phone number of the person who is, or your think may be, a victim of abuse .
- Why you think the older adult may be, or is at risk.
What will Happen
- An APS social services worker will make a face to face home visit to investigate the allegation.
- If there is a need for protective services, an APS worker will work with the adult victim and others (family, friends, volunteers, and professionals) to assist the adult and reduce or eliminate the danger.
- If the adult victim is capable, he/she will be encouraged to accept the care or services offered by the Department of Senior & Adult Services, and/or referral to other community agencies. Whenever possible, Adult Protective Services staff will assist the adult to remain in his/her home or community.
- Some adults may refuse help. Legally, services cannot be forced on an adult, except as specified by law.
- Legal action is taken only after all other appropriate solutions have been explored.
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The information contained in these pages was valid at the time of publication. The County of Cuyahoga reserves the right to make changes at any time and without notices, and assumes no liability for damages as a result of errors, omissions or discrepancies.
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