By Claire Covert-Wilson
Financial scams aimed at vulnerable seniors have become increasingly prevalent in recent years, highlighting the need for stronger elder abuse prevention education within local communities. In fact, elder financial abuse was dubbed the “crime of the 21st century,” according to a recent piece for the Desert Times. Based on a joint study conducted by the MetLife Mature Market Institute, the National Committee for the Prevention of Elder Abuse and the Center for Gerontology at Virginia Tech, the Times reported that U.S. seniors lost over $2.9 billion to fraudulent scams in 2010 – approximately12% more than in 2008.
Solitude is a primary risk factor for elder abuse. When left alone, seniors are simply more vulnerable to telephone scams and door-to door solicitations. However, family and friend-based caregiving comes with its own complications. Prescott Cole, senior staff attorney at California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform, tells the Times that caregiving within families can blur the borders of property ownership and entitlement – sometimes in ways that increase the likelihood of fraudulent activity. After all, when an adult child moves in with a parent, it can be difficult for him or her to maintain distinction between their respective possessions. Some forms of elder abuse are deliberate; but others, like encouraging a parent to sign over property or assets against their will, may come about as a reaction to the strain of caring for an aging loved one.
While it is important for family members to be involved in the care of their aging parents, it is also critical to establish a system that works for everyone – and that means balancing responsibilities to ensure mental and emotional “time off” for everyone concerned. At Unlimited Caregivers, we provide professional, friendly and honest in-home elder care. Whether you need a full-time caregiver on hand to provide your aging loved one with assistance and companionship, or a part-time helper for busy days and special occasions, our San Diego-based, female-run company offers the ideal solution.
The skilled professionals at Unlimited Caregivers will treat your loved ones like members of their own family and respect their boundaries and lifestyle preferences — all while ensuring their utmost safety and security. As experienced caregivers, we know the signs of elder financial abuse, and are adept at intervening as needed to protect your aging parents and their assets. To learn more about elder abuse prevention tactics, or to request details about our San Diego elder care services, rates and availability, visit us online today: www.unlimitedcaregivers.com.
SOURCE: The PomeradoNews
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