There are many organizations that are concerned about the abuse, neglect and exploitation of seniors.  It is also important to remember that signs of abuse in a senior may look different than in a younger person and can include emotional, physical or financial abuse.  For more information, you can review http://www.centeronelderabuse.org/Red-Flags-of-Elder-Abuse.asp.

If you believe that you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. 

This may include situations where a frail friend or neighbor has not been seen or heard from in an unusual amount of time and/or you have not been able to reach them.  Law enforcement can perform a wellness check on that individual.

Adult Protective Services

24-hour Toll Free Number: 1-855-444-3911

https://www.michigan.gov/documents/dhs/DHS-Pub-0005_358947_7.pdf

Central intake staff make a determination on whether or not a case is assigned. When harm and vulnerability are present, an investigation will begin immediately if there is imminent risk, and within 72 hours for other situations.

Domestic Violence Hotline via Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)

24-hour Phone Line: 1-866-864-2338.  Text: 1-877-861-0222.  TYY for deaf or hard of hearing: 1-517-898-5533. Chat is also available. Visit the link below.

https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/safety-injury-prev/publicsafety/crimevictims/domestic-violence-hotline?utm_campaign=&utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery

Michigan’s Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-866-VOICEDV – is a free and confidential resource for victims to call, text or chat. No matter the time – day or night – calls, texts, and chats are answered by trained advocates who can provide you with crisis support and connect you with counseling, services, and resources in your area.

EVE, Inc. (End Violent Encounters)

24-hour Crisis Line:  517-372-5572

https://www.eveinc.org/

EVE provides temporary safe housing, meals and personal care items for survivors of domestic violence.  It is in a secure and confidential location.  Call EVE’s crisis line to check shelter availability or to reach the Abuse in Later Life Advocate who works specifically with clients over the age of 55.

State of Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs

1-866-856-0126

https://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-89334_63294_27723_27777_72411—,00.html

The Bureau of Community and Health Systems receives and processes complaints for Adult Foster Care homes and Homes for the Aged.  This can include complaints about abuse and other care issues.

State of Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

If you have a complaint about a licensed long-term care facility, the Long Term Care Ombudsman program can help.  You can ask for free and confidential help to resolve a variety of complaints, not just abuse.

1-866-485-9393

http://mltcop.org/sites/default/files/2017-11/Nursing%20Home%20Complaint%20%282%29.pdf

Legal Services of South Central Michigan/Michigan Elder Justice Initiative.

1-888-783-8190

Legal Services of South Central Michigan works closely with the Michigan Elder Justice Initiative.

www.meji.org

www.lsscm.org

Local Financial Institutions

Many financial institutions have taken steps to reduce the financial exploitation of older adults.  If you suspect someone you know is being taken advantage of financially, you may wish to report it to their bank or credit union.  If they see anything suspicious in the client’s accounts, they may launch their own investigation and/or report it to authorities.

 

Disability Rights Michigan

This organization (formerly Michigan Protection and Advocacy Service) works to ensure that individuals with disabilities are informed, empowered and that their rights are protected.  They can monitor institutions and advocate for those who live in them.

https://www.drmich.org/

(800) 288-5923

Michigan Attorney General

The Michigan Attorney General’s website provides information about consumer protection, avoiding scams, where to report complaints, and links to other resources.

https://www.michigan.gov/ag/0,4534,7-359-97937—,00.html

Federal Trade Commission

Identity Theft affects more people every day.  The Federal Trade Commission has published a step by step recovery plan.  This guide is located at https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/pdf-0009_identitytheft_a_recovery_plan.pdf