Yes, most states allow people to remain anonymous when reporting elder abuse to Adult Protective Services and emergency services. Even if you cannot file an anonymous report, states may offer protections for reporting abuse.
As many as 5 million older adults are abused in the U.S. each year, according to the National Council on Aging.
It is crucial that witnesses report abuse immediately, as failing to report elder abuse can have serious, life-threatening consequences.
The Nursing Home Abuse Center works with experienced nursing home attorneys across the country. If you think your loved one is being mistreated in a nursing home, don’t wait to act.
A skilled attorney can help you report the abuse anonymously and take legal action against the facility on your behalf.
Call us right now at (855) 264-6310 to speak with a caring patient advocate in confidence.
Why Might Someone Want To Report Elder Abuse Anonymously?
There are plenty of reasons why someone might want to report elder abuse anonymously.
Learn why many people choose to report elder abuse without identifying themselves below.
Fear of Retaliation
People who report elder abuse might be afraid of abusers or others punishing them for speaking out. There have been cases of abusers who have reacted with violence after being reported to law enforcement officials.
Within care facilities, many residents do not speak out about nursing home abuse as they may be afraid that the staff will isolate or threaten them.
Professional Reasons
A nursing home or medical facility employee may want to remain anonymous because going public could threaten their job.
However, many states have “whistleblower protection” laws, which safeguard individuals who report abuse and provide resources and support for potential retaliation, whether the report is made anonymously or not.
Additionally, many states have laws that require certain professionals to report concerns about abuse or neglect. Some states even require everyone to report such concerns.
Mandated reporter laws ensure that reports are taken seriously and acted upon quickly, protecting both vulnerable individuals and those who report abuse in good faith.
Reduce Embarrassment
Those suffering from elder abuse or neglect in a nursing home may feel ashamed, making it difficult for them to talk about it. Family members or caregivers may also want to stay out of the public eye.
These feelings may cause an individual not to want to report at all. Reporting anonymously might help alleviate this issue.
Where Can You Report Elder Abuse Anonymously?
If you want to report anonymously, check your state’s related laws to make sure that option is available to you first.
Laws and procedures for reporting elder abuse can vary significantly by state, so it’s important to understand the specific requirements in your area.
A local law enforcement office may be able to tell you if you can report anonymously.
If your loved one experienced abuse in a nursing facility you were relying on to keep them safe, reporting to law enforcement and other advocacy agencies may not feel like enough.
The Nursing Home Abuse Center may be able to connect you with legal options.
Contact us right now to see how we can help.
5 Ways to Report Elder Abuse Anonymously
If you suspect that an older adult is being abused, it is important to report it. Many people prefer to report anonymously to protect themselves from potential retaliation.
Learn more about how to anonymously report elder abuse below.
1. Call Adult Protective Services
You can make an anonymous report to your local APS agency. Most states allow you to provide information without revealing your identity.
APS will investigate the allegations and take necessary actions to protect the elderly individual.
To find your local APS agency, visit the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) website or call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
2. Use an Online Reporting Tool
Many states and local agencies offer online reporting tools that allow you to submit an anonymous report. These tools are designed to ensure your privacy while providing a convenient way to report abuse from the comfort of your home.
Check your state or local government’s website for specific online reporting options. For example, California has an online reporting system for elder abuse that can be accessed through the California Department of Social Services website.
3. Contact Your Local Ombudsman
If elder abuse occurs in a nursing facility, you can report it to your local long-term care ombudsman. These trained professionals advocate for residents of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities.
You can report suspected abuse to a local ombudsman anonymously. They will investigate the claims and work to resolve issues and protect the resident’s rights.
To find your local ombudsman, visit the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center website or call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
4. Reach Out to Law Enforcement
You can report elder abuse to your local police department or sheriff’s office. Many law enforcement agencies allow anonymous tips and will investigate the situation.
Reporting to law enforcement is particularly important if the abuse is severe or life-threatening. Always call 911 in an emergency.
You can call your local non-emergency police number or use services like Crime Stoppers, which often accept anonymous reports by phone or through their website.
5. Call an Elder Abuse Hotline
There are national and state-specific elder abuse hotlines that accept anonymous reports. These hotlines are staffed by professionals who can provide guidance and take the necessary steps to address the abuse.
Calling a hotline ensures that your concerns are heard and acted upon promptly.
The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) provides a list of state hotlines, and the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-7233 can also offer assistance and resources.
When Can You Report Elder Abuse Anonymously?
If a loved one is suffering from elder abuse, you should report it immediately. If they live in a long-term care or assisted living facility, you will likely have several options for reporting nursing home abuse.
The sooner you report elder abuse, the faster protective action can be taken for those suffering. You may or may not be able to file a report without identifying yourself, but taking the first step to report suspected elder abuse may prevent serious injury or illness.
You could also be saving someone’s life and preventing an abuser from continuing their behavior.
Learn More About Elder Abuse And How To Report It
Reporting suspected elder abuse isn’t easy. If you need help, you can contact an advocacy agency, like a nursing home ombudsman or local law enforcement, to help you take the next steps.
If your loved one has suffered from abuse in a nursing facility and you want to pursue other avenues of justice, the Nursing Home Abuse Center may be able to help.
Call us right now at (855) 264-6310 or fill out our form for a free legal case review to see if you may be eligible to seek financial compensation through a lawsuit.
