Financial Exploitation of Seniors and Disabled Adults

Your Host: Cheryl Culbertson, Owner/Founder - Elder Options of Texas

Financial exploitation is sadly, a fast-growing form of abuse among seniors and adults with disabilities. Unfortunately, many go unreported because fraud crime is such a personal violation. Trust in one's own judgment and their trust in others is often shattered. One may also feel a sense of betrayal, especially if it happens from someone they know, and thought they could trust. Many hesitate to tell family members, friends, or colleagues about what has happened for fear of criticism and embarrassment. While many cases go underreported, the National Council on Aging website states that, elder financial abuse and fraud, costs older Americans $36.5 billion per year.

Leah Cohen, a Geriatric Care Manager and Licensed Social Worker with arrangeCARE in Austin TX talks about Common Scams by Strangers, by Professionals, and by Trusted Others. She also describes and explains popular scams today targeting our beloved seniors and adults with disabilities and steps they can take, as well as family members, to avoid them falling victim.