National Adult Protective Services Association

Overview

The National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) is a nonprofit organization established in 1989, with a mission to strengthen the capacity of Adult Protective Services (APS) at the national, state, and local levels. NAPSA focuses on recognizing, reporting, and responding to the needs of elderly individuals and adults with disabilities who are victims of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. It aims to prevent such mistreatment whenever possible.

Objectives

NAPSA's primary objectives include providing a forum for APS programs across the United States to share information and best practices. The organization works to improve the quality of services for vulnerable adults through education, advocacy, and collaboration with various stakeholders.

Activities

• Education and Advocacy: NAPSA increases national awareness of elder and vulnerable adult mistreatment through educational programs and advocacy efforts, including congressional testimony.
• Research and Partnerships: It partners with diverse organizations to enhance research and policy related to APS. NAPSA conducts national research on topics like APS training, services for self-neglecting adults, and data collection.
• Conferences and Summits: The organization hosts annual conferences and summits, featuring experts in APS and related disciplines. These events focus on cutting-edge issues such as financial exploitation.
• Code of Ethics: NAPSA maintains a Code of Ethics that guides the practice of APS workers.

History

Since its inception, NAPSA has grown significantly, expanding from a handful of APS administrators to over 500 professionals in APS and allied fields. It has been instrumental in advocating for federal APS legislation and funding.

Impact

NAPSA's work has contributed significantly to the development of APS programs nationwide. Its partnership with the National Center on Elder Abuse and its role in establishing the National APS Resource Center have been instrumental in advancing the field of APS.

See Also

• Adult Protective Services (APS): Government agencies that investigate and intervene in cases of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of vulnerable adults.
• National Center on Elder Abuse: A resource for preventing elder abuse and neglect.
• International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse: A global network aimed at preventing elder abuse.