Protecting our elderly community from financial abuse

Do you have a parent, relative or friend who is elderly? If so, you are probably aware of the media coverage about physical abuse of the elderly. Most people have little information about financial abuse, which can be just as devastating as physical abuse. Following is a list of indicators that may be signs that financial abuse has occurred or is likely to occur. The presence of any of these conditions may warrant concern and/or further investigation.

• Bank activity that is erratic, unusual or uncharacteristic of the person

• New acquaintances, particularly those who take up residence with the person

• Changes in the person's property titles, will or other documents, particularly if the person is confused and/or the documents favor the new acquaintances

• A power of attorney executed by a confused older person

• Lack of amenities when the older person can afford them

• Missing property

• Suspicious activity on credit card accounts

• Forged or suspicious signatures on documents

• Failure to receive services after paying for them

• Eviction from property or discontinued utilities

• Untreated medical or mental health problems

• Missing documents (pension, stock/bonds, government payments)

• Mail forwarded to a different address

• The person's confusion about recently completed financial transactions

• Increased isolation from friends and family

Educators have always cared for children. Many of us now need to extend that same care and concern to elderly colleagues.

By Karla Roberts
MNEA-R secretary/treasurer