The OAPS Act became law in 1988 and establishing a, at that time voluntary, statewide system of reporting and investigating suspected abuse, neglect exploitation, and abandonment of persons 60 years of age or older. Amendments to improve the original act have included mandatory reporting by facilities (Act 13), all paid caregivers (Act 28) and criminal background checks for health care workers in service to older adults (Act 169).
The purpose of the Act is to protect an older adult at risk while responding in the least restrictive way to maintain the older adult's basic rights to self-determination. The Act provides immunity from civil and criminal liability for those reporting suspected abuse or neglect. Montgomery County Aging & Adult Services (MCAAS) and county area agencies on aging across the Commonwealth have the responsibility under the law to investigate and provide protective services as necessary.
Who needs Protective Services?
Adults 60 years or older in the community or in a facility.
A possible victim of abuse, neglect, exploitation or abandonment.
Those who are incapacitated.
Those who lack an advocate.
Those in imminent risk or danger to self or property.
Call the 24 hr Montgomery County Elder Abuse Hotline: 1-800-734-2020
Older adults who meet the guidelines above may be referred through the hotline. This is available 24 hours a day, with Intake staff responding to calls from 8:00am to 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, and on-call staff available after hours to respond to crisis calls for Protective Services.
