What are some of the indicators of financial abuse of the elderly?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Some of the indicators of financial abuse of the elderly are:
• A recent acquaintance expresses an interest in finances, promises to provide care, or
ingratiates himself or herself with the elder.
• A relative or caregiver has no visible means of support and is overtly interested in the elder's financial affairs.
• A relative or caregiver expresses concern over the cost of caring for the elder, or is
reluctant to spend money for needed medical treatment.
• The utility and other bills are not being paid.
• The elder's placement, care, or possessions are inconsistent with the size of his or her
estate.
• A relative or caregiver isolates the elder, makes excuses when friends or family call
or visit, and does not give the elder messages.
• A relative or caregiver gives implausible explanations about finances, and the elder is
unaware of or unable to explain the arrangements made.
• Checking account and credit card statements are sent to a relative or caregiver and
are not accessible to the elder.
• At the bank, the elder is accompanied by a relative or caregiver who refuses to let the elder speak for himself or herself, and/or the elder appears nervous or afraid of the person accompanying him or her.
• The elder is concerned or confused about "missing money.".
• There are suspicious signatures on the elder's checks, or the elder signs checks and
another party fills in the payee and amount sections.
• There is an unusual amount of banking activity, particularly just after joint accounts are set up or someone new starts helping with the elder's finances.
• A will, power of attorney, or other legal document is drafted, but the elder does not
understand its implications.