Department of Health and Hospitals,

Office of Aging and Adult Services (OAAS)

Adult Protective Services

Ellen Estevens, Director

The Office of Aging and Adult Services (OAAS), Adult Protective Services (APS) is designated by the Louisiana Department of Hospitals (DHH) as the agency responsible for carrying out the mandate of Louisiana Revised Statute 14:403.2 with regard to adults with disabilities ages 18-59 and emancipated minors who live in unlicensed and non-regulated settings and for managing the protective services programs in DHH administered facilities.

The OAAS, Adult Protective Services serves adults ages 18-59 and emancipated minors who have a mental or physical disability that substantially limits their ability to provide for their own care or protection and who live in the community either independently in their own home or with the help of others or in any other place that is not licensed by a governmental regulatory agency.

APS is responsible for investigating and arranging for services to protect adults with disabilities at risk of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or extortion. APS clients may include people who have mental retardation, mental illness, or substance abuse problems, as well as those with medical problems or physical disabilities.