How to report suspected elder abuse right now

Under the Older Adults Protective Services Act (Act 79 of 1987), protective services are available for adults aged 60 and older. These services are managed through 52 Area Agencies on Aging across Pennsylvania. If you suspect an older adult is in imminent danger, dial 911 right away.

For non-emergency situations in Philadelphia, you can report suspected abuse to the Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). Call the PCA 24/7 Helpline at 215-765-9040. If you are calling from outside Philadelphia, use the toll-free number 1-888-482-9060. You do not need hard proof to make a call. Reports are kept confidential, and you are allowed to remain anonymous.

If the older adult lives in a surrounding county, contact their local Area Agency on Aging. Each county maintains its own reporting lines.

Types and common warning signs of elder abuse

Elder abuse takes many forms. It can happen in a person’s home, a relative’s home, or a care facility. Recognizing the signs early can protect your loved one from further harm. Signs of elder abuse are not always obvious. An older adult might hide the abuse out of fear, shame, or a desire to protect the abuser. Pay close attention to sudden shifts in their daily routine.

Physical abuse involves intentional force that causes injury or pain. Signs may include unexplained bruises, burns, or broken bones. You might also notice frequent trips to the hospital for injuries that do not make sense.

Emotional abuse often changes a person’s behavior. An older adult might become unusually withdrawn or depressed. They may act fearful around a specific family member or caregiver.

Financial exploitation involves the illegal or improper use of an older adult’s funds. Watch for sudden changes in bank accounts, missing cash, or newly signed legal documents they do not understand. In cases of financial exploitation, you might notice unpaid bills despite adequate income. The older adult may suddenly transfer property titles or change their will. An abuser might also isolate the person to control their money.

Neglect occurs when a caregiver fails to provide basic needs. Signs include poor hygiene, untreated bedsores, or a lack of proper food and medication. Neglect can also involve a failure to provide safe living conditions. Look for a lack of heat, running water, or electricity. Self-neglect happens when an older adult can no longer care for themselves safely.

Sexual abuse involves any non-consensual sexual contact. Signs can include unexplained infections or injuries.

If you need safe, vetted home care for your loved one, call New Century Home Care at 215-974-0000 or contact us online. Choose “I am a client” and “I need services” on our form. Our office staff speaks English, Russian, and Ukrainian.

Who must report elder abuse in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law requires certain professionals to report suspected elder abuse. Act 13 of 1997 created clear rules for required reporters in Pennsylvania. Facility administrators and employees hold a legal duty to protect the individuals in their care. This rule applies directly to home health care agencies and home care agencies.

If an agency employee has reasonable cause to suspect abuse, they must make an oral report immediately. This report goes to the local Area Agency on Aging. In Philadelphia, the worker would call the PCA Helpline.

When a home care worker makes an oral report to the Area Agency on Aging, the agency begins an investigation. While professionals face legal requirements, anyone can report suspected abuse. Neighbors, friends, and family members should call the local AAA if they notice warning signs.

How home care agencies protect clients

Licensed home care agencies follow state regulations to keep clients safe. Under Pennsylvania home care law (28 Pa. Code Chapter 611), agencies must complete several steps before a direct care worker enters a home. Read our guide to caregiver requirements for more details on these rules.

Agencies must conduct an interview and check at least two satisfactory references. These references must come from a former employer or someone not related to the applicant.

A criminal history report is required at the time of application or within the previous year. If the applicant has lived in Pennsylvania for the past two years, the agency requests a State Police record. If not, the worker needs a federal FBI record and a letter of determination from the PA Department of Aging. Agencies cannot hire anyone with a prohibited conviction.

Sometimes, an agency may hire a worker provisionally while waiting for background check results. This provisional period lasts a maximum of 30 days for two-year PA residents, or 90 days for others. During this time, the agency monitors the worker through random direct observation and client feedback.

Caregivers must also demonstrate competency before working alone with a client. They can meet this rule by holding a valid PA nurse’s license or passing the agency’s competency exam. They can also complete an approved training program.

State law requires training on specific safety topics. Caregivers learn how to recognize and report abuse or neglect. They also train in basic infection control, handling emergencies, and dealing with difficult behaviors.

When caregivers enter the home, they provide specific non-medical services defined by state law. These home care services include personal care, companionship, respite care, and assistance with instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs).

Personal care involves hands-on help with daily tasks. Caregivers assist with bathing, dressing, toileting, and feeding. They also help clients transfer in and out of bed or a chair. Because caregivers work so closely with clients during personal care, they are often the first to notice unexplained bruises or signs of physical abuse.

Companionship services focus on socialization and support. Caregivers help with IADLs like preparing meals, doing light housework, and shopping. During these tasks, a caregiver might notice signs of financial exploitation, such as missing money or unpaid bills.

Respite care provides short-term relief for family caregivers. A professional caregiver steps in when the normal family caregiver needs a break. This service not only supports the family but also introduces a trained professional who can spot signs of caregiver stress or neglect.

Home care workers must undergo screening for active tuberculosis before having any contact with a consumer. This screening must be dated within one year before their start date and updated every 12 months following CDC guidelines.

If a home care agency serves individuals under the age of 18, employees must also complete a ChildLine verification. This checks for any history of child abuse, adding another layer of protection for vulnerable families.

Consumers have the right to be involved in their service planning. Agencies must give at least 10 calendar days’ written notice before terminating services, with few exceptions.

Finally, agencies protect clients from financial exploitation through clear boundaries. No one affiliated with the home care agency may assume power of attorney (POA) or guardianship over a consumer of that agency. If you need to set up a POA for your loved one, review our guide to senior legal documents.

If you need reliable, non-medical home care services in Philadelphia, Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, or Chester counties, we can help. Call New Century Home Care at 215-974-0000 or fill out our online form and select “I am a client” then “I need services”. Find more information in our senior care resources.