As our loved ones age, they become more vulnerable to various forms of exploitation, including financial elder abuse. It’s a heartbreaking reality that affects countless seniors and their loved ones every year. At Piscataqua Savings Bank, we believe in empowering our community to recognize the signs of financial elder abuse and taking action to prevent it. In this blog post, we’ll delve into what financial elder abuse entails, how to identify its signs, methods for prevention, and steps to take if you suspect abuse.
Understanding Financial Elder Abuse
Financial elder abuse refers to the illegal or improper use of an elderly person’s funds, property, or assets. This type of abuse can take various forms, including:
Fraud: Deceptive practices aimed at obtaining money or property from seniors, such as fake investment schemes or lottery scams.
Exploitation: Unauthorized or improper use of an elder’s funds, assets, or property by a caregiver, family member, or acquaintance.
Identity Theft: Stealing personal information to access bank accounts, credit cards, or other financial resources.
Coercion: Pressuring or manipulating an elder into giving away money or assets against their will.
Spotting the Signs of Abuse
Recognizing the signs of financial elder abuse is crucial for intervention. Some common indicators include:
Unexplained Financial Transactions: Sudden or unexplained withdrawals, transfers, or changes in account ownership.
Isolation: Seniors who suddenly become isolated from friends and family, particularly if they previously had an active social life.
Unpaid Bills: Regular bills going unpaid despite the elder having sufficient funds.
Significant Changes in Estate Planning: Abrupt changes to wills, trusts, or power of attorney documents, especially if the elder seems unaware or confused about these changes.
Unnecessary Purchases or Investments: Seniors making unnecessary purchases or investments suggested by new acquaintances or caregivers.
Fear or Anxiety: Displaying fear or anxiety when discussing financial matters or interactions with certain individuals.
Unexplained Missing Possessions: Valuable items disappearing from the elder’s home without explanation.
Take Preventative Action
Preventing financial elder abuse requires proactive measures from both seniors and their loved ones:
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself and your loved ones about the various forms of financial elder abuse and how to recognize them.
- Establish Trusted Contacts: Designate trusted family members or friends to monitor financial transactions and act as advocates for the senior.
- Regularly Monitor Accounts: Keep a close eye on bank statements, credit card bills, and other financial documents for any unusual activity.
- Guard Personal Information: Avoid sharing sensitive personal information, such as Social Security numbers or account details, with unfamiliar individuals or over the phone.
- Update Legal Documents: Review and update legal documents, such as wills and powers of attorney, regularly to reflect current wishes and circumstances.
What to Do If You Suspect Abuse
If you suspect that a senior is experiencing financial elder abuse, it’s crucial to take immediate action:
- Document Your Concerns: Keep detailed records of any suspicious financial transactions or behavior, including dates, amounts, and individuals involved.
- Report to Authorities: Contact local law enforcement, Adult Protective Services, or the National Center on Elder Abuse to report your suspicions and seek assistance.
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an attorney specializing in elder law to understand your legal options and how to protect the elder’s interests.
- Offer Support: Offer emotional support and reassurance to the elder, emphasizing that they are not alone and that help is available.
- Review Financial Accounts: Work with the elder to review and secure their financial accounts, changing passwords and contact information if necessary.
Financial elder abuse is a reprehensible crime that targets some of the most vulnerable members of our society. By familiarizing ourselves with the signs of abuse, taking preventive measures, and knowing how to respond if abuse is suspected, we can help protect our seniors and ensure their financial well-being. At Piscataqua Savings Bank, we’re committed to raising awareness about this important issue and supporting efforts to combat financial elder abuse in our community. Together, we can make a difference and safeguard the financial security of our elders for generations to come.