Yes. County Adult Protective Services investigates suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults regardless of setting, including situations where a family member or informal caregiver is providing inadequate or harmful care in a private home. Reports go to the county DSS where the older adult lives -- for Wake County, that's Wake County Human Services at 919-212-7264.
What to do next
A common misconception is that Adult Protective Services only investigates facility-based abuse or neglect, but in fact the majority of APS cases nationally, and in North Carolina, involve situations in private homes, often involving a family member, spouse, or informally hired caregiver rather than a licensed facility employee. This can make reporting emotionally difficult for family members who may be reporting a sibling, another relative, or even themselves, and county DSS Adult Services staff are trained to handle these sensitive family dynamics as part of their investigation process. An APS investigation into an in-home situation may result in a range of outcomes depending on severity, from connecting the family with in-home support services (such as CAP/DA Medicaid waiver services or respite care) to, in more serious cases, involving law enforcement or pursuing guardianship or protective placement. Reporting a concern doesn't automatically mean removal or law enforcement involvement -- often the goal is connecting the vulnerable adult and their family with appropriate services and support.
Related questions
- How do I report suspected elder abuse or neglect in Wake County?
- Is there one statewide Adult Protective Services hotline for North Carolina, or does it vary by county?
- What is the phone number for Adult Protective Services in Durham County?
- What's the difference between calling Adult Protective Services and calling the state facility complaint line?
- What number do I call to report problems with conditions inside a licensed nursing home or adult care home in North Carolina?
- What are common signs of financial exploitation of a senior that families in the Triangle should watch for?
- What should I do if I think my elderly parent is in immediate physical danger right now?
