NEW YORK-Suspected cases of elder abuse can be reported to the local police, or to an agency of the state's Adult Protective Services (APS).
According to information provided during a recent elder abuse webinar run by the National Federation of Community development CUs, the credit union does not have to know that the abuse is occurring to make a report, it only needs to have a suspicion.
The webinar added that the APS accepts anonymous reports. However, making a report anonymously makes it more difficult for the APS to follow up. APS becomes involved when a report is made that an elder or adult with disabilities is a victim of abuse, neglect or exploitation. APS conducts an investigation to determine whether abuse, neglect or exploitation has occurred and may offer assistance to victims.
When making a report to APS:
* Have as much information as possible regarding suspicions.
* Include as much information as possible regarding the alleged perpetrator.
* Include what changes have been noticed in the elder-physical, emotional or cognitive.
* Make a cross report to law enforcement and advise them a report has been made to APS.
How APS programs are administered vary from state to state. For more information: www.napsa-now.org/get-help/help-in-your-area/
