Adult Protective Services
Adult Protective Services (APS) is a state mandated program dedicated to maintaining the health and safety of elders and dependent adults subjected to neglect, abuse, or exploitation, or who are unable to protect their own interests.
Sacramento County APS serves resident adults 60 years of age or older and dependent adults ages 18 and 59 who have a combination of a disability and the inability to protect their own interest, or have an inability to carry out normal activities to protect their rights, including, but not limited to, persons who have physical or developmental disabilities, or whose physical or mental abilities have diminished because of age.
APS does not remove adults from their home and place them in protective custody. APS cannot force anyone to receive services and clients are free to decline services at any time.
Anyone can file a report at any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How do I make an elder or dependent adult abuse report?
Verbal Reports: You may make a verbal report to APS by telephone at (916) 874-9377. Urgent reports requiring an immediate response must be made by telephone. For emergencies, call 911.
Online Reports: You may submit a non-emergency report online. Online reports are processed Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm only.
Elder and dependent adult abuse includes:
- Physical abuse (assault/battery, constraint or deprivation, sexual assault, chemical restraint, and over or under medication)
- Neglect (including self-neglect)
- Financial abuse
- Abandonment
- Isolation
- Abduction
- Psychological or verbal abuse.
Signs of Possible Abuse:
- Unexplained bruises or injuries, or the explanation given does not make sense
- Confusion, disorientation, or changes in mental status
- Caregiver is angry, indifferent, or aggressive.
- Missing personal belongings, papers, or credit cards
- Hesitancy to talk openly
- Lacks necessities such as food, water, utilities, medication, or medical care
- Caregiver has a history of substance abuse, criminal behavior, mental illness, or violence
- Unusual bank account activity (e.g., added names, checks made out to cash)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
APS will typically investigate to assess the situation and determine the need for intervention. The APS Social Worker may provide support services or take legal action if necessary.
Yes, APS involvement is usually confidential to protect the privacy and safety of the individuals involved.
Request Sacramento APS Records here. For APS records in another county, please contact the specific county.
APS provides a range of services including assessment, case management, counseling, referrals to community resources, and advocacy on behalf of the elder and dependent adult.
APS services are typically provided at no cost to the individual receiving assistance.
APS often collaborates with law enforcement, healthcare providers, legal services, and community organizations to ensure comprehensive support for elder and dependent.
It’s always better to err on the side of caution and report your concerns to APS. They can assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action.
Individuals have the right to be treated with dignity and respect, to participate in decisions about their care, and to refuse services if they wish.
The APS Hotline (916) 874-9377 is available 24/7 to report abuse and neglect. The online reporting tool is also available 24/7 to report non-emergent instances of abuse and neglect.
You can offer emotional support, help them access resources and services, and advocate for their needs during interactions with APS and other agencies.
Contact Information
Adult Protective Services
Telephone: (916) 874-9377