Utah law mandates that any person with reason to believe a vulnerable adult is experiencing abuse, neglect, or exploitation must immediately notify Adult Protective Services or local law enforcement, according to the Utah Department of Health and Human Services.
Illegal acts and emergency procedures
The Utah Department of Health and Human Services states that causing harm, attempting to cause harm, or the inappropriate use of physical restraint, medication, or isolation is illegal. In cases of emergency, individuals are instructed to call 911.
How to contact protective services
Adult Protective Services can be reached by telephone Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 1-800-371-7897, or via an online form available 24/7.
Types of abuse and warning signs
The agency identifies several categories of concern, including physical and sexual abuse, emotional and verbal abuse, caretaker neglect, self-neglect, and exploitation. Signs of physical abuse may include unexplained bruising, strangulation, or bed sores, while exploitation involves the unjust use of an adult's funds or assets through deception or intimidation.
