N.Y. Elder Law Section 261
Guidelines for identifying and reporting suspected self neglect, abuse and maltreatment

The director, in conjunction with the commissioner of the department of health and the commissioner of the office of children and family services, shall develop guidelines to assist healthcare providers and others working in healthcare settings to identify suspected self neglect, abuse and maltreatment of an older adult. Such guidelines may be tailored to specific healthcare providers or industries and shall include, but shall not be limited to:

1.

Common signs and symptoms of self neglect, abuse and maltreatment;

2.

Screening questions and tools that can be used during a visit to help detect whether self neglect or abuse and maltreatment may be occurring;

3.

Training materials for distribution to healthcare providers and others working in healthcare settings regarding appropriate interventions and suggestions for discussing the possibility of self neglect, abuse and maltreatment with older adults; and

4.

Information regarding options for reporting suspected cases of self neglect or abuse and maltreatment and available resources for older adult victims.

Source: Section 261 — Guidelines for identifying and reporting suspected self neglect, abuse and maltreatment, https://www.­nysenate.­gov/legislation/laws/ELD/261 (updated Sep. 15, 2017; accessed Feb. 28, 2026).

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Verified:
Feb. 28, 2026

Last modified:
Sep. 15, 2017

§ 261. Guidelines for identifying & reporting suspected self neglect, abuse and maltreatment's source at nysenate​.gov

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