Protection from Abuse and Neglect for Older Adults

Local Older Adult Abuse Hotline 412-350-6905 or 1-800-344-4319 or
Statewide Older Adult Abuse Hotline: 1-800-490-8505 

Protective Services investigates reports of abuse, neglect (including self-neglect), abandonment and financial exploitation involving older adults (60 years of age or older). It also provides assistance to alleviate the risk of harm. To anonymously report a concern, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, call the Area Agency on Aging Elder Abuse Hotline at 412-350-6905 or 1-800-344-4319. A state hotline is also available at 1-800-490-8505.

If you have concerns about the quality of care an older person is receiving from a facility or a caregiver, please call the DHS Area Agency on Aging at 412 350-5460 for guidance.   

Any person who suspects that an older adult is being abused, neglected, exploited or abandoned may file a report 24 hours a day. Abuse reports can be made on behalf of an older adult who lives in a personal residence or a care facility such as a nursing home, personal care home, hospital, etc. Reporters may remain anonymous and have legal protection from retaliation, discrimination and civil or criminal prosecution.

Every report of abuse is investigated by an Area Agency on Aging Protective Services caseworker to determine if the reported victim needs to be protected from abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment. Once the incident has been identified as protective and it has been determined that service is needed, the Area Agency on Aging will do a full evaluation of the victim’s needs and develop a care plan to reduce risk. Victims have the right to have all information concerning their case treated confidentially.

Signs of elder abuse – Although these signs do not always mean an older adults is being abused, it is important to be aware that elder abuse can occur at anytime to anyone over 60 years of age.

• Injuries – Bruises or broken bones
• Weight loss – May be due to stress or lack of food
• Dementia – May be blamed on “old age” when the real cause is malnutrition or drug interactions or side effects.
• Isolation – Seldom if ever leaves his/her residence or receives visitors
• Unusual behavior related to money – Withdrawing large sums from a bank account without apparent reason
• Unwarranted legal proceedings – Signing over his or her home to a relative 

 Protective Services Summary Sheet