If a client discloses that they abused their elderly mother two years ago and you know that APS was informed in the past, what should you do?

• A. Report to Adult Protective Services
• B. Do nothing
• C. Inform the client's family
• D. Seek a court order

Answer: (A)

Mandated reporting applies whenever a clinician learns about abuse or neglect of a vulnerable adult. Even though the client disclosed past abuse and APS was informed before, you still have to report the new information to Adult Protective Services to protect the elder and ensure proper oversight. Confidentiality does not override the duty to report suspected abuse, and reporting is the proper channel to coordinate protection and further investigation.

What to do is contact APS with the details you have—what was disclosed, who is involved, the relationship to the elder, when the abuse occurred, and any known risk factors or ongoing danger. Document the disclosure and the steps you take, and follow your jurisdiction’s reporting procedures. Do not delay reporting in hopes the client will address it themselves, and avoid sharing information with the client’s family in a way that could impede protection.