WHAT IS NEGLECT

Nglect is a form of mistreatment by individuals resulting from inadequate attention, especially through carelessness or disregard for the needs of others. If you witness a life-threatening situation involving a senior or adult with disabilities, dial 911.

These are commonly reported types* of neglect received by Adult Protective Services agencies:

Physical neglect: includes failing to attend to a person’s medical, hygienic, nutrition and dietary needs, such as dispensing medications, changing bandages, bathing, grooming, dressing, or failure to provide ample food to maintain health.Emotional neglect: includes causing emotional pain, distress or anguish by ignoring, belittling or infantilizing the needs of adults. This includes neglecting or discounting the emotional well being of others, as well as actions to isolate adults from visits or contact by family and friends.Abandonment: involves deserting the caregiving needs of an individual while neglecting to arrange sufficient care and support for the duration of the absence.Financial neglect: involves disregarding a person’s financial obligations such as failing to pay rent or mortgage, medical insurance or invoices, utility and garbage bills, property taxes and assessments.Self-neglect: involves seniors or adults with disabilities who fail to meet their own essential physical, psychological or social needs, which threatens their health, safety and well-being. This includes failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter and health care for one’s own needs. You can learn more about self-neglect here.

* Definitions of neglect vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Please contact your local APS office for additional information.



What If I’m Not Sure?

What if you just have a “feeling” about a situation but can’t verify the details? APS workers are professional social workers trained to handle just such a situation. Based on your report, the agency will assess the situation and determine how best to respond. Since laws and regulations vary widely across the United States, only your local APS agency can determine the best course of action in any given situation. 

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