Elder Financial Abuse and How to Prevent It

With estimated losses in the billions of dollars per year, elder financial abuse is a significant crime affecting older adults in various communities every day.


It is typical for people to enlist the assistance of others in financial problems as they become older. Many elderly want financial aid from their children, grandkids, friends, and others. However, financial abuse may be perpetrated by family members, neighbors, strangers, and even professionals.


When someone steals or misuses a vulnerable adult's assets for their personal gain, it is known as elder financial exploitation and abuse. It's frequently done without the vulnerable adult's knowledge or agreement, and it might leave them without the financial resources they require.

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, one out of every ten seniors aged 60 and up has been abused. Many adults, on the other hand, are not on the alert for abuse.

The vulnerability of older persons might be increased by cognitive impairment and physical limitations that necessitate assistance with activities of daily living. However, this isn't always the case. Financial exploitation can affect even the most cognitively aware and physically capable senior.

 


It's not unusual for elderly Americans to handle their finances and make their own financial decisions. However, without a financial counselor to supervise transactions and financial decisions, the danger of financial abuse may grow.

Preventing elder financial abuse is the greatest method to stop it from happening in the first place. If you're an elderly person, be aware of financial exploitation and take steps to protect yourself.

Actions to safeguard older Americans can also be identified by family members, carers, community members, and professionals. Take efforts to prepare for reduced capacity, for example. Discuss how seniors would like to handle their money and property if they were unable to do it themselves, for as by establishing a power of attorney or a trust.

The elderly are the most vulnerable, and their families, neighbors, friends, and community members must look after them.

Isolation raises the danger of elder financial exploitation, so having a support system of family and friends can help you from being abused. Keep your eyes peeled and rely on your gut impulses. You could put an end to the mistreatment of an elderly person and prevent the abuser from hurting others.


Weng

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