Investigation and assessment of the adult's needs and risk of harm.

Advocacy and case management services including arranging for medical and mental health assessments, applying for benefits (public assistance), and assuring coordinated delivery of services.

Finding alternative living arrangements.

Financial management services, including serving as representative payee.

Homemaker and housekeeper services, within specified limits.

Crisis interventions, such as securing access orders, involuntary protective service orders, and orders of protection.

Counseling for a victimized adult and his/her family.

Long-term legal interventions, such as pursuing guardianship.

Referrals from professionals, community agencies, or other concerned persons are essential to ensure that vulnerable adults are protected.

Abused or neglected adults are often reluctant to seek help for themselves. Unless others call, these adults will remain at risk.

Social Services Law provides immunity from civil liability to persons who, in good faith, make a referral concerning an adult whom they believe may need protective services.

APS usually cannot provide services to a client who refuses them, since adults have a right to make their own decisions.

APS will intervene, however, if a person is at risk and unable to understand the potential harm and consequences.

A mental health assessment and court intervention are required for involuntary services.

Every effort is made to keep individuals in the community, or in the least restrictive environment.

APS collaborates with other community agencies that can provide needed services, such as health and mental health services, programs for the aging population, law enforcement, legal agencies, and the courts.