Post by Your Home Companion on Jun 3, 2015 19:41:33 GMT
Financial Exploitation of Seniors
It became quite obvious to me once I started working with seniors, how often and by whom seniors are taken advantage of financially. It’s hard for me to understand how others can take advantage of someone who is unable to protect themselves, but unfortunately it happens.
From family and friends to strangers and non-profit telemarketers, seniors are being taken advantage of on a daily basis.
Some of the reasons seniors are targeted more often than others are that:
1. Seniors are viewed as having more money and assets available.
2. Seniors have fewer friends and are easily manipulated by a friendly voice over the phone.
3. Seniors are more than likely living at home alone and don’t have the luxury of others to help them make educated choices/decisions.
4. Seniors spend more time at home and are less mobile.
Here are some ways for seniors to protect their assets and money:
1. Do not ever give out your PIN number for any ATM cards.
2. Do not give out account numbers or social security numbers over the phone.
3. Always review monthly bank statements.
4. When a non-profit telemarketer calls, have them send information via snail mail before making any decisions. How many telemarketers do you have calling your house requesting money? None, me either, and I donate money. Now go to a senior’s home. Guaranteed they will receive at least one call while you are there. Nonprofits play seniors heartstrings to “save this” or “protect that.”
5. Be aware of all scams. Remember the old saying “If it’s too good to be true, then it probably is.”
6. Try to stay connected to your neighbors and community.
7. Ask help from a trusted family member, a bank employee, or social worker.
If you believe that someone you know is being abused physically, financially, or mentally or is being neglected, please report it by calling the local Department of Social Services:
Caroline county (410)819-4500
Dorchester county (410) 901-4100
Kent county (410) 810-7600
Queen Anne’s County (410)758-8000
Talbot county (410)770-4848
Or you can call:
(800)91-PREVENT (800)917-7383
Maryland State Police (800)525-5555
www.YourHomeCompanion.com
