What does the Adult Protective Services (APS) agency handle?

The Adult Protective Services (APS) agency is specifically designed to respond to situations involving the abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults, which is why reporting of abuse or neglect is its primary function. APS investigates reports concerning the mistreatment of adults who may be unable to protect themselves due to age, disability, or other factors.

This agency plays a crucial role in safeguarding the well-being of adults who are at risk, ensuring that they receive the help they need to prevent further harm. Cases may involve financial exploitation, physical abuse, emotional abuse, or self-neglect, and the APS has procedures in place to assess these situations and take appropriate action.

In contrast, while emergency medical services provide immediate medical care, they do not specifically focus on abuse and neglect. The placement of minors in foster care is handled by child protective services rather than APS, as it pertains to children rather than adults. Support services for the elderly may be provided by various organizations, but they do not directly address the legal obligations and protective interventions that APS is charged with. Thus, the core responsibility of the APS revolves around the reporting and handling of abuse or neglect against vulnerable adult populations.