Adult Protective Services
Investigations and Assessments
The Adult Protective Services (APS) Unit receives reports of alleged abuse and neglect of adults-at-risk (ages 18-59) and elder adults (ages 60 and above). When necessary, APS social workers will conduct assessments and investigations to determine if a person is being abused or neglected.
Abuse and Neglect
The State of Wisconsin Adult Protective Services website describes abuse and neglect of adults at risk and elder adults as follows:
Physical abuse is an intentional act that results in physical pain, injury, or impairment. Emotional abuse occurs when a person is yelled at, threatened, or belittled. While it doesn't leave physical marks, it can be devastating to someone's well-being. Sexual abuse is non-consensual sexual contact of any kind.
Unreasonable confinement or restraint refers to the use of physical, chemical, or psychological methods to restrict an individual's freedom of movement or ability to make decisions about their care without a legitimate medical or safety reason.
Neglect includes the refusal or failure to provide a person with life necessities, such as food, water, shelter, personal hygiene, medicine, physical or mental health care, comfort, personal safety, services, or adequate supervision.
Self-neglect occurs when the individual at risk fails to take care of their own basic needs and personal care, which results in significant danger to the person's physical or mental health.
Financial exploitation is the illegal or improper use of funds, assets, or property of an individual, for example, stealing money or possessions, forging a person's signature, or coercing an individual into signing any legal document.
What should I do if I think that a vulnerable adult or elderly person is being abused or neglected?
You can call the Barron County Department of Health and Human Services at (715) 537-5691, between the hours of 8:00am and 4:30pm. Let the receptionist know that you want to make an adult protection report. If there is an emergency occurring, call 911.
What will I be asked if I do make a report?
You will be asked to provide as much information about the vulnerable adult or elderly adult as possible. This will include name, birth date, address, phone number, etc. You will also be asked to describe the alleged abuse or neglect. Reporters are asked to provide their name and contact information. You do not have to provide this information if you choose not to. If the individual you are calling about already receives services and has providers/a case manager, this is helpful information to provide when making a report. Providing information on informal supports (family and friends) for the individual is also helpful.
Will the person know that I made the report?
Wisconsin law does not allow us to release the name of the reporter. However, some people are able to guess as to who may have made a report. The APS worker will not confirm or deny the person’s suspicions as to who has reported.
Will the person be taken out of his/her home?
This is a common fear and misconception that people hold. Each person’s situation is different. The APS social workers consider a person’s wishes to the extent possible, while making a full assessment of the situation. It is not our intent to remove people from their homes.