How do I report elder abuse or neglect in Richmond, Virginia?
Call Virginia's toll-free Adult Protective Services hotline at (888) 832-3858, which answers 24 hours a day, use the APS online reporting portal for non-emergencies, or contact the local Department of Social Services where the adult lives; reports can be anonymous.
Reports can be anonymous and can be filed three ways: the APS online reporting portal (for non-emergencies), the local department of social services directly, or the statewide hotline. Every APS investigation is conducted by the local department of social services.
If someone is in immediate danger, call 911 first.
| Adult Protective Services | Long-term care ombudsman | |
|---|---|---|
| Covers | Adults at home or in facilities | Residents of assisted living and nursing homes |
| Does | Investigates abuse, neglect, exploitation | Advocates and resolves complaints |
| Who runs it locally | Local Department of Social Services | The Span Center or Crater District AAA |
Who does Adult Protective Services cover in Virginia?
Virginia APS covers adults 60 or older and adults 18 to 59 who are incapacitated, whether they live at home, with family or in a licensed facility, when there is reason to suspect abuse, neglect, self-neglect or financial exploitation.
Self-neglect is a large share of calls: an older person living alone who can no longer manage food, medications or bills. APS can open an investigation and connect services even when no other person is at fault.
Financial exploitation -- a new 'friend' added to bank accounts, unexplained withdrawals, pressure to sign a power of attorney -- is also within APS's reach.
Which local agency investigates an APS report in the Richmond area?
Every Virginia APS investigation is carried out by the local Department of Social Services for the place the adult lives -- for example Richmond, Henrico, Hanover or the combined Chesterfield-Colonial Heights department -- while the statewide program and online portal are run by the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services.
If the concern involves a licensed assisted living facility, also tell VDSS licensing so it can review compliance, and consider asking the long-term care ombudsman to help the resident.
What happens after an Adult Protective Services report in Virginia?
The local Department of Social Services reviews the report, and if it meets the criteria a worker investigates, usually including a visit to the adult, then determines whether the adult needs protective services and, if so, works with the adult to arrange them.
An adult who has capacity can refuse services, but APS can still connect resources and follow up. Reporters acting in good faith are protected, and many professionals are mandated reporters under Virginia law.
If you report a concern about someone living in an assisted living facility, mention the facility's name so the case can be coordinated with VDSS licensing, and consider telling the long-term care ombudsman as well.
Last verified: October 2026
Source: DARS: File an APS report
