Adult Abuse in Iowa
Iowa has a three-part system for handling adult abuse. The response can change based on the adult's abilities and living arrangements. Check the “How to Report” section below for details.
Dependent adult abuse refers to the mistreatment of a person eighteen years of age or older who cannot protect their own interests or cannot perform or obtain necessary services to meet essential human needs due to a physical or mental condition that necessitates assistance from another, or as defined by departmental rule. The Department of Health and Human Services assesses dependent adult abuse in community settings. They also investigate these cases. Dependent adult abuse refers to abuse of anyone 18 or older who can't protect their own interests or is unable to themselves. This may be due to a physical or mental condition that requires help from others. It also follows specific rules set by the department.
The Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing assesses dependent adult abuse in a facility setting when the perpetrator is a staff member.
Elder Abuse refers to harm done to someone aged 60 or older. It can include abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation. In 2022, a law in Iowa was passed to criminalize elder abuse and enhance existing penalties. If you or someone you know has been a victim of elder abuse, please make a report to law enforcement.
For more help, contact an Elder Rights Specialist at your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). They can connect you to community services that provide resources to reduce or stop abuse, neglect, or exploitation. The AAAs offer services for Elder Abuse Prevention and Awareness. They focus on preventing, detecting, and reporting elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation. They also give older Iowans options to improve their lifestyle and stay safe at home.
How to Report
- If you think an older adult is being mistreated, call the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services Dependent Adult Abuse at 1-800-362-2178. They are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
- If you think there is dependent adult abuse in a health facility or program, call the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing Complaint Hotline at 1-877-686-0027. You can also email hfd_complaint@dia.iowa.gov.
- If you worry about your care, quality of life, or rights as a resident, reach out. You can also call on behalf of a loved one in Iowa's long-term care facilities. Contact the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1-866-236-1430.
- For a central spot to find Iowa’s resources on long-term independent living, contact LifeLong Links online or call 1-866-468-7887.
Know the Signs of Elder Abuse
Some adults may be at higher risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Types of elder abuse include:
- Physical abuse
- Emotional abuse
- Sexual abuse
- Financial abuse or exploitation
- Neglect
- Self-Neglect
Gather What You'll Need to Report Adult Abuse
Here’s what you need to know for a report on suspected dependent adult abuse:
- Name and address of the alleged victim.
- A description of the alleged mistreatment and the situation: what did you observe?
- What is the nature and extent of the injury?
- Who is the alleged perpetrator, name and address if possible?
- Does the alleged perpetrator have access to the alleged victim?
- Any other information that you feel is relevant.
- Other information that will be helpful to provide when making the report includes:
- What prompted the call today? Did something happen?
- How is the adult being mistreated? When did you last see the adult?
- Does the adult have any medical or physical conditions that impair the adult's ability to provide for day-to-day needs?
- Does the adult have a diagnosed mental illness or show signs of a mental illness?
- Does the adult have any problems with memory, decision making, or understanding how to care for him/herself?
- Does the adult have any developmental, intellectual, or cognitive disability that is impairing the ability for self-care?
- Has there been any decline in the adult's ability to adequately do cooking, shopping, using available transportation, managing medications, or mobility?
- Is the adult working with any service providers to address his/her needs? Any friends or family that are supportive?
- Have any actions been taken yet that address your concerns?
Related Agency - Iowa Health and Human Services
Address:
Lucas State Office Building
321 East 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319
General - Toll Free Phone (800) 972-2017
Rent Reimbursement: 515-420-6077