How To Recognize Financial Exploitation Of Elders

Elder abuse is a far more common issue than most give it credit for, and while the term “abuse” often connotes a physical altercation, it’s important to note that not all cases—not even most cases—of abuse are physical. In fact, according to the Colorado Department of Human Resources, when it comes to elder abuse, Colorado sees roughly half of its cases coming from neglect and financial exploitation.

Financial exploitation occurs when an elder’s funds, property, or assets are misused. Some cases of financial exploitation appear in the form of large, sudden financial transactions, while others are more gradual processes.

In any case, this form of elder abuse is not only wrong—it can also cost the elder money they need to live.

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Recognize common signs of financial exploitation, such as unusual bank withdrawals, property transfers, or sudden changes to an elder’s will.
Understand that perpetrators can include family members, caregivers, or strangers who gain trust to access assets.
Be aware that vulnerable elders, especially those with cognitive decline or physical limitations, are at higher risk.
Colorado law provides protections and reporting avenues for suspected elder financial abuse.
Seeking legal counsel promptly is crucial to investigate and protect an elder’s financial interests and well-being.

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While financial exploitation of elders easily includes scams of all varieties, such as fake lotteries, pleas from far-away swindlers and the all-too-common identity theft, the majority of perpetrators are actually members of the elder’s own family. In a 2014 study of over 4,000 cases of financial elder abuse, family members made up nearly 60 percent of the offenders, while friends and neighbors came in at 17 percent and home care aides followed at 15 percent.

It’s generally a good idea to directly ask the elder if anyone has pressured them into signing financial documents or giving up money, but the elder might not be forthcoming about the situation. This could be because of embarrassment or shame about the situation, because of fear of the abuser or of repercussions that could affect the abuser should the situation come to light—especially if that abuser is a beloved family member or friend—or simply because the elder is unaware of the situation to begin with.

There are several signs to watch out for if you suspect an older adult in your life might be the victim of financial abuse. These include—but are certainly not limited to—the following:

Unexplained withdrawals from the elder’s bank account
Sudden changes in banking practices
Confusion over financial transactions
Forgery of the elder’s signature
Abrupt changes in or confusion regarding a will or other financial document
Payment for services not actually rendered or for unnecessary services
Sudden transfers of assets from the elder to another individual
Unexplained disappearances of valuables
Sudden changes in financial situation

No elder should suffer from financial exploitation, especially after it has already taken them a lifetime to get where they are today. By being proactive in watching out for their financial wellbeing, you can be the difference for the elders in your life.

If you have reason to believe financial elder abuse is taking place, the next step is to take action, and the legal team at Bachus & Schanker can help. Many cases of abuse, including financial exploitation, go unnoticed and the victims in those cases never receive the help they deserve. Bachus & Schanker has handled elder abuse cases for years and has what it takes to help your loved ones find the peace and security they deserve.