What is a Vulnerable Adult ?

Many people think that only the elderly are subject to abuse or provided protection by the law. Any adult who has a physical or mental condition which substantially impairs the person from adequately providing for his or her own care may be considered “vulnerable” and may have special protections under the law. If you suspect that someone who is vulnerable has been abused or neglected, reach out to law enforcement and the Department of Social Services (See more information below.)

Protecting Vulnerable Adults from Abuse or Neglect

Department of Social Services (DSS) is part of our state’s public safety system. DSS’ Adult Protective Services (APS) Program is part of our state’s public safety system and is responsible for protecting vulnerable adults from abuse, neglect and exploitation by their caretakers. APS investigates and provides temporary assistance until risks are minimized and services are secured. When it is in the best interest of the vulnerable adult, APS works to keep the adult in their home with supportive services. Adult Protective Services assist vulnerable and elder adults to stop and prevent abuse, neglect, or exploitation.

Need to report abuse or neglect?

Anyone can make a report about suspected abuse.

To report a potential case of the abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult, you should immediately contact law enforcement in the area where the abuse or neglect occurred.

Depending on whether or not you feel there is imminent danger, you may call 911 or the main number for the law enforcement agency where the abuse occurred. If you are unsure where the abuse occured, call your local law enforcement agency and they should be able to help steer you in the right direction. You may also report a potential case of abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult, by immediately contacting the county DSS office where the vulnerable adult resides. Intake staff of these agencies will assist in making the report and assess the information provided to determine if an investigation is necessary. Law enforcement and DSS are required to “cross-report” but you should question each agency to ensure that this has been done.

Call: (803) 898-7318
To Report online 
CLICK HERE > https://dss.sc.gov/abuseneglect/report-abuse-and-neglect-of-a-vulnerable-adult/

To visit the DSS - SC Department of Social Services
CLICK HERE > https://dss.sc.gov/abuseneglect/report-abuse-and-neglect-of-a-vulnerable-adult/

For more information on National Support on Caregiving, please view the links below. 

To Visit the website for South Carolina Adult Protective Services
CLICK HERE > https://www.caregiver.org/south-carolina-adult-protective-services-aps-and-elder-abuse-hotline

To visit the national website for National Caregiver Alliance - National Center on Caregiving
CLICK HERE > https://www.caregiver.org/