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Senior News By Marianne Mills

Imagine someone who is in a wheelchair and depends on others to care for her. This individual is vulnerable to harm - from someone taking her money to neglect or complete abandonment, from physical or mental abuse to the unthinkable, sexual assault. Her very life may depend on friends, family members, neighbors, or anonymous citizens caring enough to make certain that she obtains the help she needs.

Fortunately, the State of Alaska has Adult Protective Services, a program that prevents or stops harm from occurring to vulnerable adults. Vulnerable adults, by definition, have a physical or mental impairment or condition that prevents them from protecting themselves or from seeking help from someone else. Vulnerable adults include those 18 years of age or older, not just senior citizens.

Anyone suspecting harm to a vulnerable adult should call the APS toll-free number at 1-(800)-478-9996. Even businesses should report. Persons who make reports are immune from liability and protected by law from retaliation. All reports are confidential and those who report may remain anonymous.

In fact, certain people MUST report by law. Police officers, paid care providers, members of the clergy, social workers, doctors and other health care professionals are among those required to report according to state law. When in doubt, one should report. The problem of harm to vulnerable adults is widespread: "We could have 100 reports a day if everyone started reporting," admits Robert Martin, APS Social Worker.

Self-neglect is one of the most common reports to Alaska's Adult Protective Services. For example, when a neighbor or visitor enters a home that is filthy, they might report to APS. But an interesting principle about Alaska Protective Services is that the freedom of the person to live how they want overrides that of safety as long as the person has the capacity to choose. "Adult Protective Services seeks to achieve simultaneously and in order of importance: freedom, safety, least disruption of life-style and least restrictive care alternative," explains Martin. He views his role as one who protects a person's right to make choices, in addition to protecting their safety.

Nevertheless, concerned acquaintances should contact the APS number if they notice warning signs of self-neglect. Perhaps it is an elder who is no longer able to handle her financial affairs such that checks are bouncing, or she faces evictions or threats of shutting off utility services. APS can assist with arranging for a trusted person to monitor or help with managing finances. Even in the case of court-appointed assistance, the freedom and independent living of an impaired adult is first and foremost.

• Marianne Mills is the program director for Southeast Senior Services, a program of Catholic Community Service. CCS assists all persons regardless of their faith.