Elder Financial Abuse: New York Nursing Home Abuse Attorney

You may be familiar with nursing home physical abuse and nursing home neglect, but did you know that your elder loved one could be a victim of elder financial abuse? Even though it is a less discussed form of senior abuse than others doesn’t mean that it is not common both inside and outside of nursing homes and adult care facilities. In fact, many senior health and safety advocates believe that only about 14 percent of elder financial abuse cases are ever reported.

Elder financial abuse can take many forms. In some cases, a caregiver or nursing home staff member could insinuate themselves into your loved one’s life and convince your loved one to give them money or inheritance. In other cases, a caregiver may take financial advantage of a senior who is confused or suffering from dementia. Still others may simply outright steal from seniors who are not aware enough of their finances to notice such activity.

What are the signs of nursing home financial abuse?

• Your loved one has a significant change in their financial activities, such as their ATM withdrawals or credit card bills.
• Your senior loved one suddenly makes changes to his or her will or Power of Attorney – especially if you don’t believe your loved one is capable of such changes.
• Your senior begins spending significant amounts of time with a new friend or a caregiver – especially if you can’t see a logical reason for the friend or caregiver to be interested in the relationship.
• Your loved one seems confused about recent financial activities or changes to their accounts.

What should you do if you believe that your elder loved one is a victim of nursing home financial abuse? If you are able, speak with your loved one frankly about the situation. In addition, report the financial abuse to authorities, and consult a nursing home abuse attorney for information on possible legal routes.