Adult Protective Services responds on an emergency basis to new reports of immediate life threats as well as to crises that occur in active APS cases. APS staff often coordinate the involvement of other agencies in addressing emergency situations. APS works closely with law enforcement, paramedics, public health nursing and physicians to develop a plan to ensure the safety and well being of abuse victims.

Examples where APS may be called on to assist include:

• A bed-ridden individual whose basic needs are being severly neglected by a caregiver.
• An elderly victim of domestic violence who is emotionally traumatized.
• A person whose health or safety is put at risk due to sudden changes in circumstances.

For victims of abuse and neglect, in an emergency, APS social workers are able to provide an array of supportive as well as tangible resources.

For example:

• Food assistance.
• Help obtaining prescription medications.
• Access to emergency health care.
• Assistance and support to obtain restraining orders or emergency protective orders.
• Support to victims in making use of police services.
• Assistance in obtaining necessary items to ensure health and safety such as home appliances, blankets and clothing.

To make a report of abuse and/or neglect, or discuss your concerns, call:

(408) 975-4900 or 1-800-414-2002