A Place for Mom's Family

 About 5 years ago I worked with a family in NY looking for care for an Aunt who had never been married and did not have any children. The niece I was working with was so concerned for her aunt's safety because she had early stage dementia and lived all alone in the apartment building she owned in Brooklyn. She was concern about her health and safety but never suspected that her aunt was in danger in other ways too.  She lived a few hours away but went to see her once a month to check on her and take care of whatever she needed. One month she happened to notice that her aunt had been writing checks in the amount of $7000.00 to one of her tenants.  Her aunt explained that the person was helping her with various things around the building. She did get protective services involved immediately, but this was a real eye opener for me how easily seniors, especially one with memory loss, can be taken advantage of. Very scary.

I found a startling statistic: 20% or one in five older adults have been the victim of a crime. The article went on to say....all too often, these victims are too embarrassed to report because in at least half the cases, the perpetrator is a family member, loved on or caregiver. Sometimes an older person trusts a family member with their assets only to discover this person of trust has cleaned out the bank accounts or sold valuable possessions. The victim is afraid to report the crime because 1) it’s humiliating to be victimized by a trusted loved one or 2) the fear of losing independence because of being diagnosed incompetent to handle their own affairs.

 For family members who suspect fraud, theft or some other crime I encourage them to contact their local Adult Protective Services to have their claim investigated by an outside party.  This allows them to know "professionals" (who specialize in Elder Protection) are involved and they can continue being the compassionate caregiver of sorts. 

 It's as important to protect the vulnerable seniors as we protect our own (innocent, vulnerable) children.  Easy comparison, but so similar.

Seniors are very prone to scams.  Connecticut's Attorney General Richard Blumenthal has taken on the misson to get these attackers and to educate people on potential threats. This is an excerpt from his website:

The following consumer tips were among some of the lessons that seniors who attended Consumer University learned throughout the session:

• Sweepstakes -- Don't be fooled into thinking you will win a better prize if you make a purchase. And if you need a magnifying glass to read the odds of winning, it isn't worth participating in the contest, and it is a violation of Connecticut law.
• Telemarketing -- Don't give out any personal information, including credit card or bank account numbers; don't send any money; and don't agree to donate money to a charity over the phone.
• Funeral goods and services -- Make sure you don't pay more than you have to. The funeral home must provide a copy of its general price list and separate price lists for caskets, vaults and cremation urns.
• Home Improvement -- Beware of offers such as "today only." Take your time, deal only with a registered contractor, and get at least three quotes for the work before signing a contract. And ask the contractor to explain any warranties and guarantees on material and workmanship.
• Travel -- Deal with an established local business. When purchasing a travel package, get the names of all hotels, airlines, car rental agencies, and restaurants involved, then check to confirm all of the reservations.
• Safety and Crime Prevention -- Don't allow strangers into your home. Ask for identification if someone claiming to be a utility repairman or law enforcement official comes to your door. Always lock your home and car. When you go out, be aware of your surroundings.

Good advice!  Thanks, Laura!