1002 Responsibility, Functions and Duties of Adult Protective Services

Georgia State Seal

Georgia Division of Aging Services
Adult Protective Services Manual

Chapter:

1000 Introduction and Purpose

Effective Date:

Section Title:

Responsibility, Functions and Duties of Adult Protective Services

Reviewed or Updated in:

MT 2019-04

Section Number:

1002

Previous Update:

Summary Statement

A systematic process has been established to define the responsibilities, functions and duties of APS starting with the initial receipt of a report alleging abuse, neglect or exploitation (A/N/E) to the method of providing services.

Basic Considerations

The Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services, Adult Protective Services is responsible for:

  • Providing a mechanism by which reports of abuse, neglect, and exploitation of adults with disabilities and elder persons not living in long-term care facilities may be made;

  • Receiving and investigating all reports in a timely and thorough manner;

  • Assessing an adult’s capacity to understand the situation and evaluating the degree of danger and continued risk present;

  • Providing protective services to adults with disabilities and elder persons, directly or arranging for the services needed, to prevent or alleviate further maltreatment (abuse, neglect or exploitation);

  • Honoring an individual’s right to self-determination and using the least restrictive alternative in the provision of protective services;

  • Maintaining records pertaining to Adult Protective Services;

  • Coordinating with other agencies, conducting public awareness activities on the issues of adult and elder abuse; and maximizing community resources for APS clients;

  • Coordinating and cooperating with the Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) and other agencies and services whose efforts are directed at protecting adults from A/N/E; and

  • Petitioning for the appointment of a guardian and/or conservator or other court ordered services when there is risk to life and the client lacks decision-making capacity.