What Is Adult Protective Services in Texas and How Do You Report Adult Abuse or Neglect?

Updated

Adult Protective Services (APS) is a program of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) that investigates reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of elderly adults and adults with disabilities, and connects them with protective services. If you believe an adult is being harmed, you can report it to the DFPS Abuse Hotline; you do not need proof, and you can report even if you are not certain. This article explains who qualifies, what APS covers, how to report, what happens afterward, and how to file a complaint if you are dissatisfied.

Who Qualifies for Adult Protective Services in Texas

APS serves adults who are 65 or older, or adults with disabilities, who are being abused, neglected, or exploited. The key condition is that the person must be an elderly adult or an adult with a disability and must be at risk of harm. APS is not a general social services program for all adults — it focuses on protecting adults who are vulnerable because of age or disability.

What APS Covers: Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation

APS investigates three main categories of harm:

  • Abuse — physical, emotional, or sexual harm, including mistreatment by a caregiver or another person.
  • Neglect — failure to provide necessary care, such as food, shelter, medical care, or protection from harm, whether by a caregiver or by the adult's own inability to care for themselves.
  • Exploitation — illegal or improper use of an adult's resources, such as money, property, or benefits, for someone else's profit or gain.

How to Report Adult Abuse, Neglect, or Exploitation in Texas

You can report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an elderly adult or an adult with a disability to DFPS. Reports can be made through the DFPS Abuse Hotline. When you report, provide as much of the following as you can:

  • The adult's name, age, and address
  • A description of the harm or risk you observed
  • The name of the person you believe is responsible, if known
  • Any immediate danger the adult faces
  • Your contact information, if you are willing to provide it

You do not need to be certain that abuse occurred. If you suspect it, report it. DFPS provides guidance on how to report abuse and how to help prevent adult abuse through its Adult Protection section.

What Happens After You Make a Report

After a report is made, DFPS APS evaluates the information and determines whether an investigation is warranted. If APS investigates, the process generally includes:

  1. Intake and screening — APS reviews the report to decide whether it meets the criteria for an investigation.
  2. Investigation — APS looks into the allegations, which may include visiting the adult, interviewing people involved, and gathering information.
  3. Services and protection — If abuse, neglect, or exploitation is confirmed, APS may arrange services to protect the adult, such as medical care, housing assistance, or legal intervention, depending on the adult's needs and willingness to accept help.

APS investigations and services are handled through regional APS offices. If you have an existing case and want to check on it, you can contact DFPS. The agency's website includes contact information and a "File a Complaint" option for each program area.

Recognizing Signs of Adult Abuse and Neglect

Signs that an elderly adult or an adult with a disability may be experiencing abuse, neglect, or exploitation include:

  • Unexplained injuries, bruises, or injuries that don't match the explanation given
  • Poor hygiene, malnutrition, dehydration, or untreated medical conditions
  • Unsafe or unsanitary living conditions
  • Sudden changes in finances, missing money, or unusual bank activity
  • Fear, withdrawal, or reluctance to speak in front of a caregiver
  • A caregiver who refuses to let others see the adult alone

If you notice these signs, report your concerns to the DFPS Abuse Hotline. DFPS also offers information on how to help prevent adult abuse.

How to File a Complaint About APS

If you are dissatisfied with how DFPS Adult Protective Services handled a report or case, you can file a complaint. DFPS provides a "File a Complaint" link under its Adult Protection section and other program areas. Filing a complaint allows you to raise concerns about the response, the investigation, or the services provided.

Key Takeaways

  • APS in Texas protects adults 65 or older and adults with disabilities from abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
  • Report suspected harm to the DFPS Abuse Hotline; you do not need proof or certainty.
  • APS screens reports, investigates when warranted, and arranges protective services.
  • You can file a complaint with DFPS if you are dissatisfied with the APS response.

For the most current reporting numbers, contact details, and program information, visit the DFPS website at dfps.texas.gov and navigate to the Adult Protection section.