046: Preventing and Recognizing Elder Abuse

Elder abuse - it’s a topic often avoided because the reality of it is difficult to face. However, it’s a vital conversation and brings forward the importance of combating mistreatment through education and advocacy. Unfortunately, the elderly population is more susceptible to being taken advantage of due to physical and mental decline, and believe it or not, 1 in 10 Americans over the age of 60 will experience some form of elder abuse. It can come in various forms, from neglect and psychological abuse to physical and financial abuse. To make matters worse, only 1 in 44 cases of elder abuse are reported, according to The National Adult Protective Services Association.

If you’re like us and you find yourself wondering how such a serious issue among so many older adults can be allowed to go unreported and unresolved, then you’re in the right place.

Awareness is the first step to preventing elder abuse, and that’s why, in this episode of A Place of Possibility, we’re facing the complex realities of elder abuse head-on. After all, it’s easier to have a difficult conversation than it is to live with abuse.

Together, we’ll be talking about:

• The different types of elder abuse and what they look like
• Recognizable signs of elder abuse that may be impacting loved ones, whether at home or in a facility
• The best ways to protect yourself or a family member from abuse
• What to do if you suspect elder abuse
• What the legal ramifications are for elder abuse

And more!

During the discussion, Richard also shares a personal story about how financial elder abuse touched his family, specifically his father, who was 80 at the time:

“My father was a victim of financial abuse. He had a line of credit with a checkbook that he had never used sitting in one of his drawers, and unfortunately, his girlfriend, who was living with him, started writing checks and signing his name, but the money was going to her. Over two years, she stole about $80,000. We had no idea, and she was hiding the statements from him. Once I got wind of this, I called the authorities and tried to talk to him, but he didn’t want to take action because he was afraid of losing her companionship. We did eventually get the money back after she passed away.” 

At Del Monte Group, we want to help you protect your wealth and health. All older adults deserve to age with dignity and respect, so we hope this episode will provide more insights and help you take action.