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Adult Protective Services — What is it? How does it work? • Adult Protective Services is a state agency, part of the State of Hawaii Department of Human Services. Their mission is to protect vulnerable adults from abuse. Abuse can include physical, psychological or sexual abuse, financial exploitation or neglect by a caregiver, or even self - neglect. • Hawai'i 's law defines a "vulnerable adult" as anyone 18 years or older with a mental, developmental or physical impairment who is also unable to: (a) communicate or make responsible decisions to manage his or her own care or resources; or (b) carry out or arrange for essential activities of daily living; or (c) protect himself or herself from abuse. • When Adult Protective Services receives a call reporting possible abuse, they first determine whether they can accept the report. Reports are accepted if it is determined that (1) the adult is 'vulnerable" under the state definition and (2) abuse has already occurred or is in imminent danger of occurring. • Once Adult Protective Services accepts a report, a further investigation is conducted. Family, friends and any agencies known to be involved, as well as the alleged perpetrator, may be contacted. Short -term helping services may be arranged. If the report does not meet the criteria for an abuse or neglect investigation, APS can often make referrals to other agencies which can arrange for or provide assistance. • Under most circumstances, Adult Protective Services can only act with the consent of the vulnerable adult. This means that even though a vulnerable adult is living in a dangerous or unhealthy situation, if they are mentally capable of making their own decisions, and they don't want help, help cannot be forced on them. Unlike children, adults cannot be "rescued" against their will. ELDER ABUSE — Why? Elders are abused for many reasons: Financial Abusers target elders because they are perceived as wealthier and more trusting than other people, and less likely to report the crime. Caregiver Abusers may become physically or psychologically abusive or neglectful because they are over - whelmed, stressed and exhausted. Caregivers sometimes quit their jobs to care for an elder, which may lead to financial worries, adding to the stress. Sometimes caregivers and family feel entitled to their parents' or grandparents' money, "it's going to be mine eventually anyway, and 1 need it now." Some caregivers or family members have substance abuse problems that cause them to be angry or desperate for money. Caring for elders with dementia can be especially stressful on family and caregivers. Alzheimer's training and caregiver respite can help well - intentioned but abusive caregivers get back on track. i WHATEVER the reasons, Elder Abuse is Never Okay. A FEW FACTS: • Most elder abuse takes place in the victim's home. • Most elder abuse is a combination of financial exploitation and physical abuse • Most abusers are family members and or caregivers. • Elder abuse is vastly under - reported; some estimates are as high as five unreported incidents for every one reported.