Utah Adult Protective Services outlines elder-abuse warning signs and reporting process

Megan Schmidt, training manager for Adult Protective Services at the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, told an elder-justice conference that identifying and reporting abuse of older adults requires both awareness of specific warning signs and timely reporting to the state agency.

Schmidt said her office investigates physical abuse, emotional abuse, caretaker neglect, self‑neglect and financial exploitation and urged community members and professionals to act when they suspect harm. "Financial exploitation…is our number one and our fastest growing in the state of Utah," she said, noting people with cognitive decline, physical limitations or recent bereavement are at particular risk.

Context: why it matters

Schmidt cited national demographic projections that the population aged 65 and older will rise sharply over coming decades, increasing caregiving needs and the potential for unmet care. She framed prevention as community work: education, social connection and caregiver supports reduce isolation and vulnerability.

What to watch for

Schmidt listed concrete red flags for different…