Adult Protective Services, or APS, is a division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS). APS works to protect the most vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. We are here to make their lives better and protect their dignity.
Protect from Abuse
Abuse is almost always about power and control over another person. Abuse can be verbal, emotional, physical, or sexual. When APS receives a report of abuse, we will investigate and respond based on the seriousness of the threat to the person's safety.
Protect from Neglect
Neglect comes in many forms. Neglect may be self-inflicted or come at the hands of a caregiver or family member. APS will assess the situation and provide resources that promote a safe and healthy home environment.
Protect from Financial Exploitation
Financial exploitation is using or attempting to use the money, property, or identity of vulnerable adults for personal gain or benefit without their informed consent. We work with financial institutions to investigate cases and ensure our clients' assets are protected and secure.
We help the most vulnerable adults—those who are 65 or older and those 18 to 64 with mental, physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities that substantially impair their ability to live independently or care for or protect themselves. These adults are at a higher risk for abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation because they rely on others. APS works with community partners to protect our clients and provide resources that help them have safer, healthier lives.
Yes. Not only is it the right thing to do, but it's the law. If you think a vulnerable adult is being abused, neglected, or financially exploited, Texas law requires you to report it to DFPS. These reports are protected by law. If someone fails to report a suspected case, he or she may face a misdemeanor or felony charge.
If you suspect an older adult or adult with a disability is being abused, neglected, or financially exploited and need to file a report, call 1-800-252-5400.
APS investigates and helps stop abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation as quickly as possible to keep vulnerable adults safe. When we receive a report of alleged abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation, we investigate the situation. When necessary, we partner with law enforcement, medical and financial professionals, and other community partners to arrange for shelter, medical care, and more.
We approach all clients with compassion and respect and strive to give them the best possible support and resources. However, APS cannot force services on an adult who does not want them, nor can we force an adult to leave his or her home unless there is an emergency situation that threatens the adult's life or safety and he or she lacks the capacity to make decisions.
This material is funded in part by a grant from the Administration for Community Living (ACL), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by, ACL/HHS, or the U.S. Government.
