DHS: Vulnerable adult maltreatment reports down during pandemic

Josh Skluzacek

The Minnesota Department of Human Services says allegations of maltreatment happening to vulnerable adults have been down during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Maltreatment is reported through the Minnesota Adult Abuse Reporting Center (MAARC), which is operated by DHS. That data shows reports of suspected maltreatment dropped in the first 10 months of 2020, compared to 2019. Still, about 50,000 vulnerable adult maltreatment reports were made last year.

DHS said data shows a similar decline in child maltreatment complaints during the same period.

"Reports of vulnerable adults experiencing abuse, neglect or financial exploitation decreased in 2020, but that doesn’t mean actual maltreatment is down," DHS Commissioner Jodi Harpstead said. "We believe this trend is pandemic driven."

DHS cited several factors as likely impacting the reduced numbers, such as fewer interactions between vulnerable adults and mandated reporters, particularly face-to-face meetings. Others possibilities include canceled medical appointments due to COVID-19, fewer community services and less interaction with family and caregivers.

Experts urge family and friends of vulnerable adults to be aware of signs of potential maltreatment, such as:

  • Physical changes, like bruises, weight loss or poor hygiene,
  • Emotional changes, such as heightened anxiety, depression or unusual behavior,
  • Uncharacteristic expenses or failure to pay bills and keep appointments.

Anyone who suspects vulnerable adult abuse is urged to call MAARC at 1-844-880-1574. Other resources can be found below.

Minnesota Department of Human Services: MN.gov/dhs/adult-protection.

Senior Linkage Line, which connects older Minnesotans and their caregivers to local services: 1-800-333-2433 or MinnesotaHelp.info.

Disability Hub MN, which helps people with disabilities solve problems, navigate the system and plan for the future: 1-866-333-2466 or DisabilityHubMN.org.

National Center on Elder Abuse, which includes an FAQ about elder abuse on its website.