Protective Services

Our Protective Services are designed to eliminate or alleviate the alleged abuse of an elder. Protective Services is a legally mandated program. Caseworkers work in conjunction with community agencies providing health, mental health, legal and social services. Elder abuse includes: physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, caretaker neglect, financial exploitation, and self-neglect.

The elder's rights and wishes are always respected.

Who can report elder abuse?

Anyone who has reasonable cause to believe an elder has been abused may make a report of elder abuse. The identity of the reporter is always kept confidential.

Who must report elder abuse?

Physicians, medical interns, dentists, coroners, podiatrists, osteopaths, physician assistants, social workers, nurses, occupational and physical therapists, psychologists, family counselors, firefighters, police and probation officers, emergency medical technicians, executive directors of home health aide and homemaker agencies, case managers, health aides, homemakers, and managers of assisted living residences are all mandated reporters of Elder Abuse.

Reports of abuse in the Massachusetts cities of Everett, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Stoneham, Wakefield, Reading and North Reading can be reported during normal business hours by calling (781) 324-7705.

After normal business hours, or to report abuse anywhere in the state of Massachusetts, call the Elder Abuse Hotline at (800) 922-2275.