Elder financial exploitation robs victims of their resources, dignity and quality of life—and they may never recover from it. Anyone who sees signs of theft, fraud, misuse of a person's assets or credit, or use of undue influence to gain control of an older person's money or property should be on the alert. Those are signs of possible exploitation. Older Americans that may have disabilities or rely on others for help can be susceptible to scams and other fraud. Advances in technology can also make it difficult for seniors to know who to trust and what's safe.
Abusers can be anyone—family members, caregivers, friends, neighbors or complete strangers. Keys to spotting financial abuse is a change in a person's financial patterns.
If you suspect any of the above, you should report abuse to your local Department of Social Services in the county where the disabled adult lives.