PROTECT Your POCKETBOOK Tips to Avoid Financial Exploitation eldercareFinancial exploitation targeting older adults is a major problem Ee nt OCC eam cer mtn Te SOT TRU eRe Sree em ore SOULE ers CTR cea Perens eee ee eUnceN TOO ee ey threat to the health, sefety, dignity and independence of vulnerabh older adults, but you can help prevent it from happening “This brochure is not meant ta “scare” you or make you paranoid about ll financial rmatters. The vast majority of family, friends and professionals who help you handle your ‘money have good intentions. his brochure should simply be used asa tool to educate you about financial exploitation, provide you with tips on how to stay safe and direct you to resources in case you need help for yourself or friend. What is considered financial exploitation (abuse)? Financial exploitation happens when someone illegally or improperly uses your money or property for ther own bene This typeof explitation canbe commited by someane you kow ora complete strange Who might commit financial exploitation? fen financial exploitation it commited by a person you know and trust suchas fend, caregiver or family member. Butanyone who has acces to your personal infor ‘mation may choose to misuse that information for her own beneht Same predictors of potential abusers ae: people wth drug or alcohol issues people with gambling problems; People wth untreated menalhelth sues people whoa ania depend Are you at risk? Everyone could potentially beth target of nancial exploitation and everyone should be ‘auious with thei nancial matters, especially older adults. You might be particularly at risk f you depend on others or meeting many personal needs you recently lost spouse or loved-one who handled your finances fal or fiends regularly handle your finances, you fel isolated from society; you have difficulty understanding finances; and/or you live ina long-term cae settingWhat are some potential signs of financial exploitation? You, fly and frends or your bank might notice some common warning signs that may indicate that you ae being exploited. These signs might include: ‘You notice financial activity that is inconsistent with your financial history and/or beyond your means (ie, increased or unexplained creditcard activity, withdrawals inspite of penalties, newly authorized signers on accounts), ‘Your caregwer or beneficiary refuses to use your funds for necessary care and treatment. ‘You are confused about recent financlal arrangements/transactions and are reluctant to discuss finances ‘There have been recent changes to your property titles, deeds, refinanced mortgages, Power of Attorney documents, wills, trusts or other documents that you do not understand and did not authorize. People are threatening o place you in a long-term care facility unless you give them contral of your finances. It appears that food or medication has been manipulated or withheld so you become weak and compliant ‘You have been threstened with harm, neglect or abandonment ifyou dont agree to financial arrangements presented by others. ‘You have taken on the financial responsibility for a family member or friend without regard for your own needs