Children

Working with

Adult Protective Services (APS)

Under the authority of the Ohio Revised Code Section 5101.62, the Adult Protective Services (APS) unit is required to investigate reports of elder abuse, neglect (including self-neglect) and exploitation in Hamilton County. A caseworker will evaluate the report, meet with the client and any involved family members and make recommendations for support services as needed. The caseworker will also discuss the recommendations with the client and family members.

You do have rights and responsibilities if an APS worker contacts you regarding a report of suspected elder abuse, neglect, self-neglect or exploitation.

What are my rights?

When working with APS, you have the right to:

· Treatment that is courteous and respectful

· A caseworker who listens to your needs and concerns and works with you.

· Participation in the development of a Service Plan. A Service Plan identifies the services recommended and who will be responsible for providing those services.

· Clear, honest answers to your questions.

· Be told about other organizations that can help you and your family if APS can not help.

· Written notification of the case resolution.

· Be served without discrimination on the basis of age, race, national origin; creed; gender; sexual orientation; lifestyle; or physical, mental or developmental disability.

· File a complaint or grievance if you have a problem or concern that cannot be resolved by your caseworker or the supervisor.

· Ask that services be terminated.

· Meals on Wheels

· Medical treatment

· Money management

· Homemaker services

· Help with housing

· Home health aides

· Transportation

· Mental health counseling and treatment

· Drug or alcohol assessment and treatment

If I have a problem with APS, what should I do?

· If you have a current case and you have a problem or concern with the way your case is being handled:

o Contact the Hamilton County Department of Job and Family Services, Customer Service Office at (513) 946-2466

· If your case has been closed or transferred and you have an issue regarding the outcome of your case:

o Discuss the issue with your caseworker and then your caseworker’s supervisor.

o If you still have a problem or concern, you can request a hearing with the Adult Services Section Chief by:

Ø Sending a letter to:

Hamilton County Department of Job & Family Services

Attn: Section Chief, Integrated Services

222 East Central Pkwy.

Cincinnati, OH 45202

Ø Calling 946-1000 and asking for the section chief of Integrated Services.

o When your case is closed or transferred to another agency, you will receive written notice explaining the outcome. The section chief must receive your request for a hearing within 90 days from the day you receive this notice.

· If you believe you have been discriminated against because of age, creed, lifestyle, gender, national origin, race, sexual orientation, or physical, mental, or developmental disability, contact:

Hamilton County Department of Job & Family Services

Customer Service Office, (513) 946-2466

Other helpful organizations and resources:

· In-home assessment of physical and mental well being by Registered Nurse or Licensed Social Worker

· Nonprofit organization that does home modification repairs and weatherization for low income, elderly and disabled people who reside in their homes

· Free service assists victims of crime through criminal justice system. Escort services to court and help in filing for victim’s compensation

· Professional counseling for homeowners with mortgage difficulties and for potential home buyers