Dependent Adult Abuse Program

Topics:

Programs & Services
Family & Community Services
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About Us

Protecting Vulnerable Adults. Preserving Rights. Promoting Safety.

Iowa HHS' Dependent Adult Abuse Program is a core component of Iowa’s Adult Protective Services (APS) system. APS is not a single agency. Rather, it is a coordinated network of state and local partners working together to protect vulnerable adults through civil and criminal responses.

The Dependent Adult Abuse Program, housed within the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is responsible for receiving and responding to reports of suspected abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation of dependent adults living in the community under Iowa Code Chapter 235B.

Effective protection depends on collaboration. The APS system includes:

  • Law enforcement
  • County attorneys
  • The Iowa Insurance Division
  • The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL)
  • Area Agencies on Aging
  • Elder abuse prevention programs

Together, these partners ensure the safety, rights, and well-being of vulnerable Iowans.

The Dependent Adult Abuse Program operates statewide across five service regions and is committed to using the least restrictive response necessary to ensure safety.

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What We Do

The Dependent Adult Abuse Program:

  • Receives and reviews reports of suspected abuse
  • Determines whether an assessment or investigation is needed
  • Protects the safety and well-being of vulnerable adults
  • Assesses concerns of maltreatment
  • Connects adults and families to community supports and services
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Who We Protect

The Dependent Adult Abuse Program serves adults who:

  • Are 18 years of age or older, and
  • Cannot protect their own interests or meet essential needs due to a physical or mental condition

The Program responds to:

  • Abuse
  • Neglect (including self-neglect)
  • Financial exploitation

Every adult is approached with dignity and respect. Responses vary depending on the adult’s abilities, choices, and living situation.

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How to Report

Emergency

If the vulnerable adult is in immediate danger, call 911.

Report Dependent Adult Abuse

1-800-362-2178
Available 24/7
Anyone may make a report.

Facility Abuse

If abuse is suspected in a licensed facility or program, contact:
 1-877-686-0027
 hfd_complaint@dia.iowa.gov

Online Reporting Form

Long-Term Care Support

State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
 1-866-236-1430

Aging & Disability Resource Center (through Iowa Compass)

For information and referral services, contact the Aging and Disability Resource Center Technical Assistance and Call Center at Iowa Compass online or call 1-800-779-2001 or email information@iowacompass.org  .

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Prevention & Public Awareness

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Data, Statistics & Presentations

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Handbooks & Forms

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