If elder abuse is witnessed outside of hospitals and long-term care facilities, who is the appropriate agency to report it to?

Reporting elder abuse outside hospitals and long-term care facilities is best directed to the county adult protective services agency. This agency is specifically established to investigate reports of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of older adults or dependent adults across various settings, not limited to institutional environments. Their role includes assessing situations, providing resources, and taking protective measures when necessary.

The county adult protective services agency is trained to handle the complexities associated with elder abuse cases, which can often be sensitive and require a nuanced approach. This agency collaborates with law enforcement, healthcare providers, and community organizations to ensure a comprehensive response that prioritizes the safety and well-being of the elder involved.

While other options may have relevant roles in different contexts, they do not specifically focus on elder abuse reporting. For instance, state police handle criminal matters, the Social Services Department may address broader social services issues, and Community Health Centers focus on healthcare provision rather than abuse intervention. Thus, county adult protective services is the appropriate entity for addressing and reporting these specific instances of elder abuse in non-institutional settings.