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The triggering of APS investigations is primarily based on reports from family or caregivers. This is because family members or caregivers often have the closest proximity to the individual and may observe signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation that others might not see. Their insights are crucial, as they may recognize changes in the individual's behavior, physical condition, or living situation that suggest a problem.

Family and caregivers are usually motivated by concerns for the well-being of the individual, making their reports vital in initiating investigations that can lead to necessary interventions to protect vulnerable adults. They can provide specific details and context surrounding the situation, which can be instrumental in forming a clear picture of the alleged maltreatment, thereby prompting APS to take action.

Other options, while related to the welfare of individuals, typically do not serve as the primary triggers for investigations. Regular welfare checks might identify issues, but they are not usually instigated by complaints or explicit concerns. Self-referrals may happen when individuals reach out for help themselves, but this occurs less frequently and is less common as a trigger. Community health assessments are broader in scope and focus primarily on public health rather than individual cases, thus they do not directly lead to APS investigations.