All of us, as responsible citizens, must help to prevent and stop abuse, neglect, abandonment, and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults by reporting suspected abuse to the appropriate authorities. Some professionals are required by law to report suspected abuse. If you are a. . . You must report immediately if you have reasonable cause to believe that a vulnerable adult is being harmed. You do not need proof of that harm.
Abuse is a willful action or inaction that causes harm.
Abandonment is leaving the vulnerable adult without means of caring for self. Neglect is the failure of someone to safely care for a vulnerable adult to maintain health and safety. Self-neglect is the failure of the vulnerable adult to maintain his or her own health and safety. Financial exploitation occurs when someone takes financial advantage of a vulnerable adult. Reporting If you think someone may be in danger or needs urgent help, call 911 or your local law enforcement immediately.