Every year, thousands of older and dependent adults suffer from abuse, neglect or exploitation. They are living in their own homes, apartments and with their families. Most of them are suffering in silence. And the facts are alarming!

Adult Protective Services (APS) receives calls every day concerning possible abuse of elderly or dependent adults in our community. In 2003, Contra Costa County's APS responded to an average of 152 reports of abuse per month.

Consider these facts:

	In 1990, 110 allegations of abuse were made to Contra Costa County's APS. In 2001, the number of allegations reached 1316, a twelvefold increase in over 12 years.
	In 2003, APS averaged 290 active cases per month.
	In Contra Costa County, the fastest growing segment of the population is the 85+ age group. Over the next ten years, the 65+ age group is expected to increase 37%; the 85+ segment is predicted to skyrocket by 55%.

Experts estimate, however, that at least four times as many incidents are unreported as those that are reported and substantiated.

Why does abuse go unreported?

Often people don't know when or where to go for help. In other cases, denial, fear or shame keeps abuse a secret. The only real shame is not reporting a case of possible abuse, neglect or exploitation.

Adult Protective Services provides assistance 24-hours a day to elderly and dependent individuals who are victims of physical, emotional or financial harm or abuse. Call toll free: (877) 839-4347.

What is abuse?

What happens when a report is made?

Who are mandated reporters?

State Form for Reporting Abuse - SOC 341