News

By guest author Debra Hines, Adult Protective Services – Clermont County

It’s an unfortunate thing: elder abuse is more common than ever. Each year, the number of reported incidents rises, having tripled over the last decade. In Clermont County, exploitation is now the second-most common issue, following self-neglect.

Last year in Clermont County alone, 703 elder abuse cases were referred to Adult Protective Services (APS). To make matters worse, we know just one in 10 cases of abuse are actually reported.

Fortunately, there is Community Advocacy and Protection for Seniors (C.A.P.S.) – a collaboration of community agencies who partner with APS to collectively address gaps in service for older adults who are abused, neglected and exploited. Member agencies meet monthly to learn, share resources and offer support for vulnerable older adults.

At C.A.P.S, our mission is to prevent, recognize and eliminate abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older adults. We have a shared belief in the personal safety, financial security and emotional well-being of older adults.

Organizations part of C.A.P.S. include hospitals, nursing homes, home health agencies, and financial institutions, local EMS/Fire and law enforcement. Also included are  

• Clermont County Prosecutor’s office
• Clermont’s Ohio Probate Court
• Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD)
• Clermont County Mental Health and Recovery Board
• Agencies that work with older adults in any capacity (i.e. Council on Aging, ProSeniors, Alzheimer’s Association)

Here’s an example of APS collaborating with C.A.P.S. to help someone through struggles at home:

An older adult with mental illness was living with her adult child with developmental disabilities.  The home was deemed unsafe because of hoarding and an insect infestation. Through multiple agencies, including Clermont County Prosecutor’s Office, Board of DD, Probate Court, Mobile Crisis and local EMS, the home was cleaned and services and supports were put in place – enabling this family to stay together.

How can you help?
If you work with Adult Protective Services or with older adults in any capacity and are interested in being a part of this collaborative group, please contact me. I look forward to working with you!

Debra Hines | APS Investigator/I-Team Leader | 513-536-4095 | [email protected]

Ms. Hines works with Adult Protective Services as an Investigator and also works as a  Probate Court Investigator in serving Guardianship Notices. Through her work and passion, she aims to raise awareness of elder abuse and make Clermont County a safer place for older adults.