In general, financial elder abuse involves any type of theft or embezzlement from a
senior citizen. Such thefts are one of the most destructive forms of abuse because elders are generally
unable to recoup their losses and may lose their ability to live independently or even die from
resulting depression. The theft may be perpetrated by anyone from a stranger to a friend, caretaker
or a family member.
Despite the enhanced criminal penalties that may be imposed for this crime, some
unscrupulous individuals remain undeterred and continue to prey upon vulnerable seniors. Unfortunately,
long prison sentences will not restore a victim's stolen life savings. The early detection and
prevention of elder abuse is a community responsibility.
Signs of possible financial elder abuse include:
- Isolating the elder by limiting contact with friends and other family members.
- The exercise of excessive control or sway over an elder.
- Sudden changes in the elder's banking practice.
- Abrupt changes in a will or financial documents.
- Unexplained disappearance of valuable possessions.
- Substandard care being provided or bills going unpaid despite adequate financial resources.
- Statements by the elder about suspected financial exploitation
Members of the public are urged to report suspected elder abuse to law enforcement
and/or Adult Protective Services so that steps may be taken to assure the senior's assets are protected
and not looted. If you suspect that someone you know may be a victim of financial elder abuse, call the
24 hour Elder Abuse Hotline at (415) 507-2774 or your local police department.
Tips to Prevent Financial Elder Abuse
You may also wish to visit Elder Financial Protection Network (EFPN).
