Forms may also be obtained from many hospitals, law enforcement agencies, and physicians. Within seven days following your report, the department or the appropriate law enforcement authority will make an investigation, depending on who received the report. After the investigation, a decision will be made as to whether there is a need for protective services. Anyone reporting suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation is presumed to be acting in good faith and is, by law, immune from legal action that might otherwise be incurred or imposed. This immunity extends to all persons making reports and participating in judicial proceedings concerning those reports.
Services vary from case to case, depending on the particular problem and what is needed to solve it.
Homemaker services or day care might enable an adult to remain at home while receiving help with some of the tasks of daily living. If a placement outside the person's home appears to be the best alternative, arrangements might be made for a move to the home of a relative, a licensed nursing home, an approved foster home, or a licensed assisted living facility. If you need answers to other questions about the Adult Protective Services Act, contact the Department of Human Resources in the county where you live. Alabama Department of Human Resources Center for Information Services.