Adult Protective Services are intended to assist adults who are in danger of harm, unable to protect themselves and have no one else to assist them. Each County Department of Job and Family Services (CDJFS) in Ohio, is responsible for receiving and investigating all reports of abuse, neglect and exploitation of the elderly population 60 years of age and older.

Investigation of a report alleging abuse, neglect and exploitation shall be initiated within twenty-four (24) hours after the department receives the report or if any emergency exits; otherwise, an investigation shall be initiated within three working days.

Social, medical, and mental health care professionals are mandated by law to immediately report suspected abuse, neglect, (self-neglect) or exploitation to the CDJFS. Also, required to report are attorneys, peace officers, senior service providers, coroners, clergymen and professional counselors. In addition, any concerned citizens can report such suspected situations to the CDJFS.

The goals of Adult Protective Services are:

1. To prevent, reduce or remedy conditions causing endangerment to adults (who meet specified criteria) through provision of services appropriate to the adults needs.

2. To maximize the adult’s independence and self-direction.

3. To prevent unnecessary institutionalization and to enable the adult to remain in his own home as long as possible by selection of the least restrictive alternative. The least restrictive alternative means the change resulting in the least loss of self-determination that will meet the specified need.