Once elder abuse is reported it undergoes an investigation. According to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, an Adult protective services caseworker will first determine if enough information exists to open an investigation. The caseworker will then determine if the available information indicates a case in which the subject of the alleged abuse is at risk for "immediate or irreparable physical harm or death." Emergency and nonemergency cases have different timelines for investigation.
The National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) explains that “If the situation meets criteria for abuse, neglect or exploitation, an APS – or, Adult Protective Services worker - will initiate face-to-face contact with the adult needing assistance.” Adult Protective Services are then able to take action along with the courts and organizations serving older adults.
The Ohio Department of Job and Family Services Adult Protective Services implemented a database in 2019 to capture reports of elder abuse in all 88 counties (The Record Herald, 2019). This will greatly improve the state's ability to analyze data statewide and assess needs.
