Guide to APS findings
If Adult Protective Services makes a finding against you of abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, misappropriation, or abandonment, you may not be able to work or volunteer with children or vulnerable adults for the rest of your life. Learn your rights and responsibilities when APS investigates you and makes a finding against you, and the process for appealing the finding.
Contents
1. APS basics
If you or someone you know may be the victim of abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment, read about protecting elders and vulnerable adults from abuse and neglect.
Adult Protective Services (APS) is a statewide government agency. It is part of the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS). APS investigators respond to reports of possible abuse, neglect, exploitation, stealing of property, or abandonment of vulnerable adults living at home or in a facility. Vulnerable adults can be any of these:
- 60 years or older and functionally, mentally, or physically unable to care for themselves
- Have a court-appointed guardian
- Have a developmental disability
- Living in a nursing home, adult family home, boarding home, or other facility
- Getting services from home health, hospice, or home care agencies
- Getting services from an individual care provider or a personal aide