Elderly woman smiling in her wheelchair and receiving assistance from another person

Adult Protective Services

Adult Protective Services provides crucial interventions to protect older and dependent adults from abuse and neglect. This program ensures that all adults have the right to safety and respect, maintaining their civil and constitutional rights while securing their well-being in the community. If you see neglect, call (209) 468-3780



 



The Adult Protective Services (APS) program in San Joaquin County is dedicated to safeguarding vulnerable adults and
older adults by providing critical emergency interventions. APS investigates allegations of abuse and neglect, actively
intervenes as necessary, and delivers educational resources and community support to protect the well-being of older
adults and dependent adults living in the community.

Know the Signs

Financial Exploitation

  • Unusual financial activity (e.g. large bank withdrawal or use of ATMs or credit cards not normally used)
  • Missing checks or missing bank statements/records
  • Address or names have been changed on accounts
  • Purchases made without the individual's knowledge or consent
  • Newly authorized signatures on accounts or forged signatures
  • Evidence that the person fell victim to a scam
  • Missing belongings
  • Change to a financial power of attorney
  • Change of ownership of bank accounts or the deed to a physical property such as a home

Physical or Sexual Abuse

  • Bruising
  • Unexplained bruising
  • Strangulation
  • Fractures
  • Burns
  • Bed sores
  • Over or under medicating the victim
  • Not wearing appropriate clothing to the weather (such as long sleeves when hot)
  • Controlling access to or the movements of an individual

Self Neglect

  • Isn't going to the doctor
  • Isn't taking medication as needed
  • Doesn't have food, inadequate nutrition
  • Lives in unsafe housing conditions such as lack of heat, electricity or running water
  • Has poor personal hygiene
  • Lacks/won't allow needed care

Services and Principles

APS services are available to all, irrespective of income, to ensure that those in danger receive timely help to address and mitigate abuse.

Adults have inherent rights to safety, autonomy, and respect for their civil and constitutional freedoms, such as managing finances, entering contracts, and personal decision-making.



Who qualifies for APS?

An "Elder" is defined as anyone 60 years of age or older.
A "Dependent Adult" is anyone aged 18 to 59 who faces physical or mental limitations that impair their ability to perform daily activities or protect their rights.
This includes individuals with physical or developmental disabilities and those whose capabilities are diminished due to age.


Types of Abuse Addressed

  • Physical Abuse: Signs include bruising, burns, malnutrition, and other injuries.
  • Sexual Abuse: Involves any nonconsensual sexual contact, particularly relevant where mental impairment prevents consent.
  • Financial Abuse: Involves the improper use of an elder's funds or assets by caregivers or others.
  • Emotional Abuse: Includes actions that cause severe emotional distress like fear, depression, or confusion.
  • Neglect/Self-Neglect: This occurs when caregivers fail to meet the needs of the elder or dependent adult or when individuals fail to care for themselves.


Reporting and Response

To report suspected abuse, contact the San Joaquin County APS Hotline, available 24/7 at (209) 468-3780 or download and complete our Report of Suspected Elder and Dependent Abuse (SOC 341) and either fax it to; 209-932-2641, or mail to; San Joaquin County Human Services Agency, PO Box 201056, Stockton CA 95201.
Upon receiving a report, trained APS professionals assess the situation and determine the response urgency, ranging from immediate action to a response within ten days if there is no immediate danger.