Mandatory Reporting for Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse

Mandated Reporters

Anyone can report abuse; however, state law requires that any individual who is an elder or dependent adult care custodian MUST report any suspected abuse. A care custodian is a person providing any level or type of care to disabled adults and/or the elderly.

• Elderly are persons 65 years or older.
• Dependent adults are persons between the ages of 18 and 64 who have physical or mental limitations that restrict their ability to carry out normal activities of daily living or to protect their rights.

What to Report

Any mandated reporter is required to report any reasonable suspicion of:

• Physical Abuse
• Financial Abuse
• Abandonment
• Isolation
• Abduction
• Neglect/Self-Neglect
• Mental Suffering

Identity Process

• The identity of reporting parties is protected and kept confidential.
• "Mandated Reporters" must identify themselves when reporting.
• Failure to report may result in a fine of up to $1,000 and/or imprisonment up to six months in county jail.
• If the abuse results in death or great bodily harm, the penalty may increase up to $5,000 and/or up to one year in county jail.

Where to Report

• Adult Protective Services – All incidents outside of long term care facilities that includes acute care hospitals, call (831) 454-4101 or toll free 1-(866) 580-HELP (4357).
• Ombudsman – For incidents in long term care facilities call (831) 429-1913 or (831) 688-8833.
• Law Enforcement Agency -  For emergency, call 911.
• A mandated reporter may be asked to fill out a Report of Suspected Abuse Form which will be provided to them.