Concerns about an older person’s safety deserve attention, whether the person lives at home, with family, or in a care facility. Abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation can take different forms. The goal is to respond to specific concerns while respecting the person’s dignity and wishes.
Know where to report an urgent concern
If a person is in immediate danger, call 911. The Florida Department of Children and Families then directs callers to the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873. Online reporting should not be used when immediate attention is needed.
Florida law requires any person who knows or has reasonable cause to suspect that a vulnerable adult has been or is being abused, neglected, or exploited to report that knowledge or suspicion immediately to the central abuse hotline. The statute’s vulnerable-adult standard matters; age alone is not the only consideration. You do not need to complete your own investigation before making a required report.
Pay attention to changes and unmet needs
Concerns may arise from unexplained injuries, untreated medical needs, inadequate food or hygiene, fear around a particular person, isolation, missing property, unusual account activity, or bills going unpaid despite available resources.
These observations are not a diagnosis or proof of abuse. Illness, medication effects, and other circumstances can also cause changes. A health care professional should assess medical concerns, while appropriate authorities evaluate reports of suspected abuse or exploitation.
Listen and preserve useful information
Speak privately with the person when safe and appropriate. Ask open questions and listen without blaming or suggesting the answers. Record specific observations, dates, and the person’s own description as accurately as possible.
Keep relevant records that you are lawfully entitled to access. Avoid confronting a suspected abuser in a way that could place the person at greater risk. Respect privacy and do not assume that being a relative gives unlimited authority over medical records or accounts.
Review planning arrangements after immediate needs are addressed
Thoughtful financial and health care documents can identify trusted helpers and define their authority. Appropriate records, communication, and oversight can help make those arrangements more dependable, although no document guarantees protection from misconduct.
Verras Law helps clients with estate planning, trusts, probate, and related planning needs. We generally do not accept new guardianship matters except for existing clients. We do not accept personal injury or medical malpractice matters. For new guardianship matters outside that scope, or when clients need help in those other areas, we can connect them with trusted colleagues. Contacting our office does not replace emergency assistance or a required abuse report.
Contact Verras Law if you would like to review the legal planning arrangements for yourself or a loved one.
Sources: Florida mandatory reporting statute; Florida DCF reporting instructions; Florida adult protective services definitions.
Updated October 26, 2026.