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1. What is adult abuse?

Adult abuse is the mistreatment of an impaired adult, age 18 or older, who may be dependent on someone else for basic needs. Further explanation can be found on the Definitions page.

2. What are some signs of adult abuse?

Some signs that abuse may be taking place are unexplained injuries, sudden decrease of financial resources and sudden changes in mood or behavior. Further explanation can be found on the Abuse & Neglect page.

3. What can I do to stop adult abuse?

Report suspected abuse to Adult Protective Services. By law, reports always remain anonymous.

4. What does Adult Protective Services do?

Adult Protective Services (APS) has the legal responsibility to investigate alleged abuse, neglect or exploitation of impaired adults, age 18 and older who live in the community.

5. What programs are available to assist the elderly and/or disabled adults who are in danger of abuse or exploitation?

Adult protective services are available to adults 18 or older, who are at risk of abuse or neglect. Options and services vary with the needs and willingness of the adult but can include:

• Arranging for medical care
• Coordination with law enforcement and other agencies
• Assistance finding alternative living arrangements
• Financial management services and referrals
• Homemaker and housekeeper services within specified limits
• Crisis interventions, such as restraining orders
• Long-term legal interventions, such as guardianship and protective placement.

6. How do I make a referral if I believe an adult is at risk of abuse or neglect?

Call Adult Protective Services at 262-605-6646 or 800-472-8008, which will investigate reports of adult and elder abuse.

7. What happens when I make a referral? Who responds?

APS will initiate an investigation in response to referrals. Services will be provided that reduce the risk to the adult and which support the adult's ability to stay in the community for as long as possible.

8. What if the elderly or impaired adult refuses help?

Competent adults have the right to exercise free choice in deciding whether to accept services. If an adult appears to be capable of understanding the risks and chooses to stay in an abusive or neglectful situation this can be a difficult decision for others to understand. APS will offer services and try to convince the adult to accept help.

9. Don't see your question here?

Please call the Kenosha County Elder Abuse Helpline at 262-605-6646 or 262-657-7188 (evening and weekend emergencies only).