Legal and planning

What is Financial exploitation?

Financial exploitation is the improper use of an older person's money or property, by a stranger, a professional or, most often, someone they know.

People with dementia are at high risk because judgement and memory are affected. Warning signs include unusual withdrawals, a new friend managing money, unpaid bills despite sufficient funds, and sudden changes to a will or deed.

Adult Protective Services in each state investigates, and banks have reporting duties.

Why it matters

It is common, it is usually a family member, and catching it early is the only real remedy.

Sources

Where to check this, and where to read more. All external and all authoritative.

Related terms

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