An older adult has financially exploited harms the victim and can create a domino effect for the entire family. To ensure the safety of your loved one, learn when and how to report financial abuse of an older adult. For elderly victims of financial abuse, it is best to bring attention to the situation as soon as you notice possible signs of victimization. The following are places where to report financial abuse of elderly.
1. Contact Adult Protective Services
The adult protective services agency is an office of the state government that receives reports of suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of an older adult. They are tasked to investigate allegations and check if abuse occurred. These agencies will also assist vulnerable adults in terms of protection from harm or danger.
2. File a report with the law enforcement agency
If you believe that a financial abuser has committed a crime, report it to your local law enforcement agency so they can start their investigation. When reporting, mention the name of the person taking advantage of the elderly and where you saw the act. Do not reveal any personal information such as your name or contact information.
3. Contact a family member
If you know a caregiver has exploited an elderly loved one, do not leave the victim alone with her abuser. Instead, contact family members and let them know about your concerns. When it comes to close friends and relatives, take their advice on handling this difficult situation. When you bring a family member or close friend to the case, they can help ensure that the elderly victim is safe and well taken care of.
4. Contact the local social services
Your city’s social services department can help you with pressing charges against financial abusers. They also assist in monitoring resources and other services to aid older adults. During the case management process, they also help investigate and monitor abusers. When reporting financial abuse, let the social worker know about the specific type of abuse. Ensure to include information on how the abuser is taking advantage of the older adult.
5. Report financial abuse to the bank
If family members or relatives refuse to take action against an abuser, then it is best to contact the bank. Banks are obliged by law to report a suspected abuse of a vulnerable adult. To protect the victim, they will start an internal investigation and freeze the account of the alleged negligent person. A representative from the bank can also help you if you are unsure how to act in this situation.
Conclusion
Financial abuse of the elderly can have catastrophic effects on a person’s safety, health, and overall well-being. In most cases, it starts with small amounts of money but escalates to the worst consequences. To prevent this, make it a point to report the financial abuse of an older person. It is best to stop an abuser than suffer for years. If you suspect your loved one has been a victim of financial abuse, then contact the adult protective services or law enforcement agency in your area immediately.
