Adult Protective Services

Abuse remains a growing problem across the country. In Oregon, state and local authorities have re-doubled their efforts to increase the investigation and prosecution of abuse cases involving vulnerable adults. Most Oregon counties have created multi-disciplinary teams to review these cases and discuss legal action with law enforcement agencies. These efforts have increased the number of prosecutions throughout Oregon.

Report suspected cases of abuse
The Adult Protective Services staff of the Oregon Department of Human Services conduct investigations throughout Oregon of alleged abuse and neglect. If you believe abuse or neglect is occurring, immediately contact your DHS or Area Agency on Aging local office. You may also report abuse to DHS at 1-800-232-3020. In an emergency, call 911.

*Also see: mandatory reporting

Adult protective services include:

• Arranging for the immediate protection of the adult.
• Contacting the adult to assess his or her ability to protect his or her own interest and give informed consent.
• Determining the ability of the adult to understand the nature of the protective service and his or her willingness to accept services.
• Coordinating evaluations to determine or verify the adult's physical and mental status, if necessary.
• Assist in arranging for appropriate services and alternative living arrangements.
• Assisting in or arranging the medical, legal or other necessary services to prevent further abuse.
• Providing advocacy to assure the adult's rights and entitlements are protected.

DHS also investigates incidents of abuse involving the elderly and people with disabilities who may be living in a facility or at home. Monetary penalties can be imposed on facility providers who have violated regulations and, in more serious cases, licenses of facilities can be revoked. *Also see: