Abuse Prevention & Legal Assistance

HHS oversees a variety of programs that work to protect the rights of older adults. The following services and resources are available:

  • Legal assistance
  • Abuse prevention and awareness (case management)

Long-term Care Ombudsman

If you or someone you love has been impacted negatively by a long-term care facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living facility, a long-term care ombudsman may assist. Learn about their long-term care ombudsman services and how they can help.

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Elder Abuse Prevention & Awareness (Case Management) 

  • Consultation – Provided to an individual at risk of, or experiencing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. A consultation provides the opportunity to connect the individual to available community resources and services.
  • Assessment & Intervention – Provided to an individual at risk of, or experiencing abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation. An assessment & intervention entails one-on-one discussions to identify what is important to the individual at risk. A service plan is developed identifying services and resources to support the individual’s health and safety.
  • Learn more about guardianships from the Office of Public Guardian

To access services for individuals at risk of, or experiencing elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation, connect with your nearest Iowa Area Agency on Aging.

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Report Adult Abuse

  • For individuals living outside of care facilities, contact:
  • For individuals living in a long-term care facility or assisted living program:
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Legal advice and representation provided by an attorney or a paralegal/law student under the supervision of an attorney.

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