Confronting Elder Abuse

A change in beneficiary.

* A new will or power of attorney when elder is clearly incapable.

* A recent change in title to elder's home in favor of new friend.

* Missing personal belongings, such as art, silver and jewelry.

* Caregiver asks only financial questions about elder.

* Caregiver seems to have no means of support.

* Caregiver tries to isolate or intimidate elder.

FINANCIAL ABUSE OF ELDERS

* Studies estimate that at least 1 million American elders have been financially exploited by their own families or close friends.

* If fraud by strangers and newcomers is included, about one in 20 elders has been victimized. But only about one in 14 instances is reported.

* Reports of all elder abuse reached 293,000 in 1996, a 10-year increase of 150%. About a quarter of cases involve fraud or theft.

* The typical victim:

--Lives alone.

--Is socially isolated.

--Has physical or mental disabilities.

--Fears being removed from home.

--Does not report the victimizer.

--Lies to protect the victimizer.

--Is shattered by self-reproach and self-doubt for being gullible.

* The typical perpetrator:

--Is a family member or caregiver.

--Has no criminal record.

--Is an opportunist with only one victim.

--Provides only minimal support for the victim.

FIGHTING FINANCIAL ABUSE

If you're suspicious:

* Inform the elder's bankers and brokers of your suspicions. (Doing so in good faith protects you from liability under state law.)

* Inform county Adult Protective Services in elder's county of residence.

MORE INFORMATION

Orange County Adult Protective Services: (714) 566-3116

Orange County Council on Aging: (714) 863-0323

National Center on Elder Abuse: http://www.gwjapan.com/NCEA

National Aging Information Center: http://www.aoa.dhhs.gov/naic

Federal Administration on Aging: http://www.aoa.dhhs.gov