Adult Protection

The Adult Protective Services program provides protective services (and referrals to community services) to adults who cannot protect or care for themselves. These adults are known as at-risk adults. They are considered to be at risk of mistreatment or self-neglect because:
  • They are unable to protect themselves against abuse, neglect, or exploitation; and / or
  • They are unable to perform or arrange for services that will help them to protect their health and safety. For example, they may be unable to obtain medical treatment, financial assistance, meals, or home health assistance; and / or
  • They lack sufficient understanding or lack the capacity to make or communicate decisions that keep them safe and healthy.

Reporting


To report suspected neglect, or exploitation of an at-risk adult in Summit County during normal working hours, call 970-668-9160. Let the staff person know you would like to make an Adult Protection Referral.

If it is after hours and you need to report an emergency, call 911 or dispatch at 970-668-8600. An on-call Human Services caseworker will be contacted if deemed necessary by law enforcement. If it is not an emergency, please report your concerns the following day between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.

Report Mistreatment or Self-Neglect


All Colorado citizens are encouraged to report suspected mistreatment or self-neglect of an at-risk adult. When making a report to Adult Protective Services (APS), it is helpful to provide as much detailed information as possible about the adult, the adult’s situation, and the alleged perpetrator. Whenever possible, provide the following information:
  • Name, address, and phone number of the at-risk adult
  • Current location, if different from the home address
  • Date of birth or estimated age
  • Medical and / or disabling condition(s)
  • Medical provider(s)
  • Caregiver(s)
  • Names and contact information for any known family members, friends, or neighbors
  • Name and contact information for the person responsible for abuse or neglect (if applicable)

For more information on Adult Protection visit Colorado Department of Human Services.