TO REPORT ABUSE CALL 708-354-1323 (MONDAY – FRIDAY, 8:30AM – 4:30PM), OR 1-866-800-1409 (24 HOURS DAY/7 DAYS A WEEK)
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Abuse of older adults and adults with disabilities is the least recognized form of violence. Our Adult Protective Services program helps vulnerable older adults and adults with disabilities experiencing abuse, neglect or exploitation. Our highly experienced staff investigates reports and works to prevent future abuse.
Adult Protective Services staff investigates the following types of abuse: abandonment, confinement, emotional abuse, financial exploitation, passive neglect, physical abuse, self neglect, sexual abuse and willful deprivation. |
What if an individual has a cognitive impairment?
Our staff is highly trained in working with impaired individuals. If the individual has an cognitive impairment, and the situation is dire and they need a guardian to be appointed, there are situations where we can petition the court for an outside guardian. We do accept intake where the the alleged abuser is the power of attorney or guardian. If needed, our staff can petition the court for guardianship or power of attorney to ensure the client's needs are met.
Our staff is highly trained in working with impaired individuals. If the individual has an cognitive impairment, and the situation is dire and they need a guardian to be appointed, there are situations where we can petition the court for an outside guardian. We do accept intake where the the alleged abuser is the power of attorney or guardian. If needed, our staff can petition the court for guardianship or power of attorney to ensure the client's needs are met.
How to report suspected abuse?
All reports are anonymous, confidential and can be made Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm by calling Aging Care Connections at (708) 354-1323. Reports can also be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling: (866) 800-1409.
What happens after the report?
After the report, an Adult Protective Services staff member assesses the situation and discusses it with the individual in need of services. Next steps are made based on the individual's wishes and goals if the individual is cognitively capable of being a part of the intervention process. The steps might include: obtaining the individual's consent to receive assistance, providing services as needed to keep them safe, and assisting the individual with staying in their own home or finding other living accommodations.
All reports are anonymous, confidential and can be made Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm by calling Aging Care Connections at (708) 354-1323. Reports can also be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling: (866) 800-1409.
What happens after the report?
After the report, an Adult Protective Services staff member assesses the situation and discusses it with the individual in need of services. Next steps are made based on the individual's wishes and goals if the individual is cognitively capable of being a part of the intervention process. The steps might include: obtaining the individual's consent to receive assistance, providing services as needed to keep them safe, and assisting the individual with staying in their own home or finding other living accommodations.
In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Illinois Department of Aging has produced a 6 minute video which defines abuse and provides the viewer with the Adult Protective Services Hotline number for reporting. Click here to view and learn more about this important topic.