Elder Protection Programs

Special to Seniors Today
Elder abuse refers to any knowing, intentional, or negligent act causing harm or a serious risk of harm to a vulnerable adult. Abuse, neglect, exploitation, or fraud can happen anywhere, anytime, and often affects the most vulnerable members of our community.

The DOEA Elder Abuse Prevention Program supports programs and services to protect elders from abuse in all forms, physical, emotional, and financial. In partnership with the Department of Children and Families Adult Protective Services, DOEA, and the Aging Network work to protect disabled adults or elderly persons from further occurrences of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Services provided may include protective supervision, placement, and in-home and community-based services.
How to Report Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation
The Department works in conjunction with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) Adult Protective Services and the Aging Network to protect disabled adults or elderly persons from further occurrences of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Services provided may include protective supervision, placement, and in-home and community-based services. To report online—go to the DCF website at https://www.my flfamilies.com/service-programs/ abuse-hotline/report-online.shtml

To report by phone—call Florida Abuse Hotline at 1.800.96.ABUSE (1-800.962.2873). Press 2 to report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult. This toll free number is available 24/7. TTY (Telephone Device for the Deaf): 1.800.955.8771. To report via fax, please print and complete the DCF fax reporting form with details and fax to 1.800.914.0004.