Adult Protective Services: Supporting safety, independence and dignity

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*Adult Protective Services responds to reports of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation while helping older and dependent adults remain safe and connected to the support they need.*

Older adults and individuals living with disabilities should never have to face life’s challenges alone. The San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services – Public Guardian’s (DAAS-PG) Adult Protective Services (APS) program is committed to helping older adults and dependent adults remain safe, independent and connected to the support they need.

Many people think APS only responds to cases of physical abuse or neglect caused by another person. While protecting adults from abuse, neglect, financial exploitation and other forms of mistreatment is an important part of APS’s mission, the program also helps individuals who may be struggling to care for themselves due to physical, cognitive, behavioral health or other disabling conditions.

APS serves adults aged 60 and older, as well as dependent adults ages 18 to 59 who have physical or behavioral conditions that limit their ability to care for themselves. Services are available regardless of income and are provided at no cost.

One of the most misunderstood situations APS addresses is self-neglect. Self-neglect occurs when an individual is unable to meet their own basic needs, placing their health or safety at risk. This may include difficulty obtaining food, managing medications, maintaining personal hygiene, keeping utilities connected, seeking needed medical care or living in unsafe conditions. Self-neglect is often the result of illness, disability, cognitive decline or other circumstances, not simply a personal choice. APS works alongside individuals to identify their needs, connect them with community resources and develop solutions that help them remain as safe and independent as possible while respecting their right to make their own decisions.

APS professionals respond to reports of suspected abuse, neglect, self-neglect, financial exploitation and other situations where an older or dependent adult may be at risk. After assessing each situation, APS may provide case management, advocacy, referrals to community resources, emergency assistance, counseling, housing resources, or coordinate services with healthcare providers, law enforcement and other community partners to help improve the individual’s safety and well-being.

Raising awareness is an important step in preventing elder and dependent adult abuse. Everyone has a role in recognizing the warning signs of abuse, neglect and self-neglect and in helping build communities where older adults and individuals with disabilities can live with dignity, respect and security.

If you are concerned about the safety or well-being of an older adult or dependent adult, don’t wait. A simple phone call could connect someone with the help they need. To report suspected abuse, neglect, self-neglect, financial exploitation or unsafe living conditions, contact the APS hotline at 877-565-2020, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year.

To learn more about APS and other services offered by DAAS-PG, please visit the newly redesigned DAAS-PG website.

Additional County Update News – July 16, 2026