When an elderly loved one, neighbor, or friend stops answering calls or acting as they normally do, it can be a cause for serious alarm. The proper course of action depends on the perceived urgency of the situation. Understanding the different resources available—from emergency responders to social services—ensures you can take the most appropriate and effective step to help.
When to Call Emergency Services (911)
In situations where there is reason to believe the elderly person is in immediate danger, calling 911 is the correct and most urgent course of action. Dispatchers prioritize calls that involve imminent risk, such as a medical emergency or a potential intruder. Immediate danger could be suggested by things like a sudden silence during a phone call, evidence of a fall through a window, or explicit threats made by the individual. When you call, provide the dispatcher with as much information as possible, including the person's full name, address, and any known medical conditions.
What to Tell the Dispatcher
- The address of the individual: Crucial for a quick response.
- Your name and relationship to the person: This helps provide context.
- The reason for your concern: Describe the specific signs or events that prompted your call.
- Any relevant health details: Mention conditions like mobility issues, dementia, or a history of heart problems.
- If they have pets: This may be a concern for first responders.
Contacting Local Police (Non-Emergency Line)
For situations that are concerning but do not appear to be an immediate, life-threatening emergency, the non-emergency line for the local police department is the right number to call. This might be appropriate if a person you typically speak with daily has not answered their phone for a couple of days, and there are no other signs of distress. A police officer will be dispatched to the residence to perform a welfare check, sometimes knocking on the door and speaking with the individual to ensure their safety. If you don't know the local number, a quick internet search for "[city name] police department non-emergency line" will provide the correct contact.
Contacting Adult Protective Services (APS)
If your concerns are centered around potential neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation, and not an immediate medical crisis, contacting Adult Protective Services (APS) is the most appropriate step. APS is a social services agency designed to protect and support vulnerable adults. They can conduct an investigation and connect the individual with resources to improve their living situation. Reports to APS can often be made anonymously and can be a good option if you are worried about financial abuse, inadequate living conditions, or other chronic issues.
Reporting to APS vs. Police
| Feature | Police (Non-Emergency) | Adult Protective Services (APS) |
|---|---|---|
| Best For | Checking on a person who is suddenly unresponsive, possibly due to a medical event or fall. | Investigating long-term patterns of neglect, self-neglect, or financial exploitation. |
| Response Time | Typically within a few hours, depending on call volume and priority. | Varies by jurisdiction; generally not for immediate, crisis-level concerns. |
| Intervention Type | Immediate, physical presence to confirm safety and summon medical help if needed. | Investigation and case management, connecting the individual with long-term support services. |
| Confidentiality | In most cases, the identity of the caller is kept confidential. | Reports can often be made anonymously to protect the caller. |
| Reason for Concern | Sudden lack of contact, unusual behavior, or signs of recent distress. | Signs of unkempt living conditions, unusual financial activity, or significant changes in health status. |
Contacting a Senior Check-In Service or Local Agency
Many communities and organizations offer non-governmental options for wellness checks, which can sometimes be a less intrusive alternative to involving law enforcement. These can be formal programs offered through local Area Agencies on Aging or informal networks of volunteers. Some areas have programs that place daily automated or human calls to check on seniors living alone.
Example Check-In Services:
- Local Area Agency on Aging: These agencies can often provide guidance or resources for seniors and their families.
- Senior Well Check Programs: Some local sheriff's offices or senior centers operate non-emergency programs that offer daily check-in calls.
- Community Senior Centers: Many community centers offer resources and services for older adults.
- 211: A nationwide resource that can connect you with local health and human services.
Important Considerations Before You Call
Before you pick up the phone, consider the following:
- Attempt Direct Contact First: Have you tried calling their landline and cell phone? Have you checked with a close neighbor or family member? Sometimes a simple oversight, like a dead phone battery, is the cause of the silence.
- Assess the Urgency: Is this a one-time missed call, or part of a pattern of concerning behavior? An immediate crisis requires 911, while long-term issues require APS or social services.
- Gather Necessary Information: Have the person's name, address, and an explanation of your concerns ready before you call.
- Be Aware of Potential for Conflict: For individuals with mental health issues or negative past experiences with law enforcement, the presence of police can be distressing. In some areas, alternative response teams are available for mental health crises.
Conclusion
Knowing who do I call for a wellness check on an elderly person is about choosing the right resource for the specific situation. For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, dial 911. For non-urgent welfare concerns, the local police non-emergency line is appropriate. In cases of neglect or exploitation, Adult Protective Services is the designated agency. Additionally, local senior resource centers and check-in programs offer valuable, non-emergency options. By assessing the situation and choosing the correct channel, you can help ensure the safety and well-being of a vulnerable senior in need. For more comprehensive information, the National Council on Aging offers a wealth of resources on elder safety and wellness.
