SUCCESS STORIES

Transforming Lives

Celebrating successes as we work to serve vulnerable adults and hold perpetrators accountable.

Photo by Derek Wachter Westport, WA

We received a self-neglect referral for an individual who was depressed, refusing care and showing signs of potentially infected wounds. APS met with the individual and the person agreed to receive in-home services. The APS investigator helped facilitate an urgent referral.

However, the individual moved to an unknown address before being assessed. The APS investigator utilized database resources and found a potential address for the person.

The investigator conducted a home visit and noticed that the person was in medical danger. The investigator immediately called 911 and the person was transported to the hospital. The individual was diagnosed with severe wounds that required intensive medical treatment.

The investigator’s diligence helped get the person necessary resources to heal.

REGION 2: TEAMWORK FOR PROTECTION

We received a report alleging the physical abuse of an individual with developmental disabilities. The concerns were against the individual’s parent. APS worked with the individual and requested emergent medical attention.

The individual was transported to the hospital and APS ensured that the person would not be discharged from the hospital or have contact with the parent until legal processes were in place to ensure the individual’s ongoing safety.

This case required collaboration between APS teammates and is a great example of how working together to find solutions can help best serve vulnerable adults.

REGION 3: CREATING SAFE ENVIRONMENTS

We received a report alleging the self-neglect of an elderly person who was increasingly forgetful. The person was displaying new, uncommon behaviors and was becoming violent. The person’s family didn’t know how to manage the new behaviors and needed assistance.

The family attempted to work with specialists and support programs, but were unsuccessful. The person’s agitation continued, which resulted in numerous outbursts, injuries and a hospital admittance.

APS worked with the family to discuss options for supportive services and provided educational materials to help the family understand the individual’s challenges. APS provided guidance and emotional support to the family when they needed to navigate the mental health court system and helped them develop plans to best care for the individual.

The family is grateful for the patience and assistance from APS. They are grateful to receive help to create a safe and successful plan for their loved one.