In 2017, 1.2 million seniors needed nursing home care; by 2030, that number is expected to grow to 1.9 million. Shockingly, nearly 1 in 10 adults aged 65+ suffer from at least one type of abuse each year. However, only 1 in 24 cases of nursing home abuse is reported, making this statistic an underestimation.
Do you need to report nursing home abuse?
Keep this information close at hand in case you need to report abuse or neglect.
Source: Stop Adult Abuse
Note: Much of this information has come from the Missouri DHSS and Adult Protective Services website.
Adult Protective Services (APS) is a social services program focused on helping elderly adults and adults with disabilities live with dignity and respect by investigating allegations of abuse, neglect, self-neglect, and exploitation.
Who can report abuse?
Anyone who suspects abuse, neglect, or exploitation can make a report. Certain professionals, however, are mandated by law to report. Please note that this report can be made anonymously.
How do I make a report?
Contact APS using the information provided.
Be prepared to provide the following information:
Who can APS serve?
In Missouri, an elderly adult or adult with disabilities must meet these criteria:
Why should I report?
Most seniors and adults with disabilities live independently without assistance. However, some face abuse or neglect and need trained professionals to advocate on their behalf. APS helps by assessing each individual’s unique needs, and then developing a service plan to maintain their safety health, and independence.
What happens after I make a report?
APS will investigate the suspected abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation and connect the individual with support services if the individual wants. (Please note, that APS does not have authority over facilities or law enforcement.)
If you would like to follow up on a report you made to the Adult Abuse and Neglect Hotline regarding an individual residing in the community (including his or her own home), contact the appropriate Adult Protective Services (APS) office in the county where the reported adult resides.
The underreporting of nursing home abuse and/or neglect happens for many reasons, one of which could be the elder person’s ability (or lack of) to talk about what is happening. Family members need to know not only how to identify the signs but also who to report their suspicions to. If possible, when reporting abuse or neglect, try to have anything such as notes about the elder person’s behavior, photos of any injuries, and statements from residents.
If you suspect abuse or neglect, contact a nursing home abuse and neglect lawyer. We will ensure your loved ones receive the care they have a right to.
If your loved one has suffered abuse or neglect in the nursing home, call us at (877) 284-6600.
Should you need a personal injury lawyer in the Kansas City area with expertise in nursing home abuse lawsuits, call Nash & Franciskato at (877) 284-6600. One of our experienced staff will speak with you personally and will provide you with a free, no-obligation review of your case.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on July 21, 2021. It was reviewed on February 19, 2025, for content and accuracy, and re-published.
