Adult Protective Services looks out for seniors
For the most part, everyone knows that SRS (Social and Rehabilitative Services) looks out for the interests of children, but many are surprised to hear they also offer protective services for adults.
"Anyone over the age of 18 qualifies for adult protective services," explained Marlo Mason, an SRS representative from El Dorado.
An explanation of what exactly comprises adult protective services was one of the topics discussed during Marion County's observance Thursday of Senior Law Day.
Approximately 22 senior citizens attended the event held from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the courtroom of the Marion County Courthouse.
Sponsored by the Eighth Judicial District, the special day not only included the SRS discussion, but also information from representatives of Marion County Home Health, and presentations by lawyers discussing a variety of subjects of interest to senior citizens.
Hillsboro attorney John Johnson served as facilitator for the day's events.
In discussing adult protective services, Mason said SRS examines four specific areas: abuse, neglect, exploitation, and fiduciary abuse.
Mason said senior abuse takes many forms — some cases are examples of obviously blatant abuse where injuries are inflicted, while other forms — like emotional abuse — are more subtle.
"In many cases, these occur when the caregiver — usually a child — becomes too stressed and all of a sudden they're not able to do everything," Mason said. "Sometimes, all they need is help and support."
Mason said anyone can make a report if they suspect an individual is being exploited in any way.
"Certain people are required by law to make reports, but anyone can make a report," she said. "I'd rather have a report than nothing at all if there's abuse going on."
In collecting information about a case, Mason said she may ask the reporting party is there is anything dangerous about any particular situation.
"We usually go alone and we'd like to know if they have been threatening or if they have a dog the size of Godzilla," Mason said as audience members laughed. "If so, we'll usually take a member of law enforcement with us."
Anyone wanting to report a situation should call SRS and ask to speak to an intake worker. "They want to know as much detail as you can possibly give," Mason said.
In a worst case scenario, where SRS investigates and discovers that whatever is reported is true, the person who is doing the abuse, causing the neglect, or whatever, will be sent a letter.
"That person then has 30 days in which to appeal our decision," Mason said. "But the appeal process can take up to two years and they can appeal all the way to the Supreme Court."
On the other hand, if the situation is determined to be unconfirmed or a potential risk, it's quite likely that Mason cannot release any information.
"In that case I might ask you to keep a watch out," she said. "If you see it happening again, let me know."
And sometimes, a reporting party might have just witnessed a one time event.
Kathy Holland, SRS primary worker for Marion and 10 other counties, said that people are quite confident when it comes to reporting instances of child neglect; however, it's another story when it comes to adults.
"People seem to be unsure," Holland said. "But if you have a concern, call it in."
