APS stands for Adult Protective Services. This program is required by the Code of Virginia (22VAC30-100-20). This means each local department of Social Services is required to provide these services.

APS is required by law to receive and investigate reports of suspected or known adult abuse, neglect, and/or exploitation.

APS is not allowed to release who made the report.

If a report is determined to be a valid report, APS is required to make an unannounced face to face visit with the alleged victim within 5 days.

An APS Family Service Worker will probably come to the home unannounced. This may seem intrusive, but it allows the worker to assess the “as-is” situation based on the reported allegations.

The purpose of the investigation is to determine whether the adult alleged to be abuse, neglected, or exploited or at risk of abuse, neglect or exploitation is in need of protective services; and if so, to identify services needed to provide the protection.

We ask questions about support systems, financial resources, medical conditions, recent/current use of public resources, and family involvement. This is designed to gain an understanding and respect of the individual’s formal and informal support systems and potential solutions.

APS has 45 days to conduct the investigation before making a determination if there is a preponderance of evidence that the allegation of abuse, neglect, and/or exploitation occurred. However, this time frame may be extended if the Worker needs additional information to make a determination.

If there is a determination that services are needed, the Worker will obtain consent from the individual to identify potential resources or solutions. A service plan will be created with the individual.

There may be goals listed on the service plan that the individual may not agree to. An adult with capacity has the right to decline some or all the identified services. The Worker is required to document what services were identified and indicate whether they were accepted or declined.

If the Worker suspects an individual lacks the ability to make informed decisions, a mental status evaluation may be requested by a licensed professional familiar with the person’s medical needs, functioning, etc.

Examples of services provided by APS include the following:

• Advocacy
• Educating individuals and families on resources
• Assistance to access other needed services. These services could include, but are not limited to medical care, transportation, housing, in-home care, legal assistance.