Adult Protective Services

Adult Protective Services (APS) covers individuals 18 years of age or older who, due to mental or physical impairments, are unable to meet their own essential needs for food, shelter, clothing, or medical care and have no one available who is willing and able to assist them responsibly. In addition, it assists those that are in need of protection from physical, sexual, or emotional abuse, neglect, financial exploitation, or hazardous conditions. These services are free to all adults in need of them regardless of income. Services are voluntary and adults may reject the services that are offered. In rare cases, the court intervenes.

For more information, visit the New York State Office of Children and Family Services website.

Eligibility

Eighteen years or older with all three of the following characteristics:

  • A mental or physical disability
  • The individual is at risk of harm either by his/her own or others’ actions and
  • The individual has no one willing or able to responsibly assist.

Referral Process

Call 315-366-2211 between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday to make a referral. You may choose to have your call remain confidential or you may remain anonymous.

Alternatively, fax your concerns to 315-366-2658 or write us at:
Adult Protective Services
Madison County Department of Social Services
P.O. Box 637
Wampsville, NY 13163

Be sure to include the name of the individual that you are concerned about, the individual’s address, and what your concern is and how we could reach you for any further information.

NYS Human Services Call Center

NYS Human Services Call Center: 844-697-3505

Services Provided

  • Identifying adults in need of assistance who have no one who is willing and able to help
  • Investigating situations of adults at risk and in life-threatening situations
  • Assessing individuals' circumstances and services needs
  • Providing counseling to individuals, their families, or other responsible persons
  • Arranging alternative living arrangements
  • Assisting in locating services, medical care, day care, and other resources
  • Arranging for guardianship, commitment, or other protective placements
  • Providing assistance in arranging legal services
  • Functioning as guardian, representative payee, or protective payee
  • Providing homemaker services

Rights of an Individual Referred for Protective Services for Adults

Adults have the right to make their own decisions. They may choose to accept or refuse the services APS offers. In cases of extreme risk or diminished capacity to make decisions due to physical or mental disorders, APS may intervene against the person’s will to protect the individual.