Wednesday, July 24, 2019

Interesting Facts You Need To Know About Elder Financial Abuse

By Raymond Watson


Persons who intend to live a comfortable life in retirement must learn to save up a portion of their income as soon as possible. This is to make sure that they are able to enjoy the rest of their lives without worrying about meeting their basic needs. However, in order to ensure a carefree period, individuals should learn to protect themselves against elder financial abuse.

This type of financial abuse refers to when a fiduciary of the elderly acts in a way that can jeopardize their finances. Many older persons who are vulnerable to illnesses or injuries may require caretakers to handle their assets in their place. When said manager is too careless with their spending, this can lead to massive financial trouble that can affect the individual.

To ensure that you seize back control of your finances, it helps to recognize some common signs of asset abuse. One example is when bills are not being paid on time or a sudden halt of utilities like electricity and water. Additionally, if you suddenly find yourself being evicted from your home, it may be a sign that your handler has neglected to pay these necessities.

The relationship between a handler and the victim can be quite complicated especially if the former is someone they know personally. In most scenarios, it is not uncommon for the owner to name certain relatives or close acquaintances as their handler. Depending on their relationship, many of the abused rarely consider themselves as the victim until it is too late.

Another warning sign to also look out for is the loss of various personal properties. These include automobiles, deeds, valuable collections, and jewelry, all of which can be sold for a hefty price. Similar to money transfers, property loss usually starts out small until the abuser eventually gains confidence and starts selling more valuable items without the permission of the associate.

Next, watch out for suspicious bank activities. This includes constant transfers from your account to unfamiliar networks. Additionally, your fiduciary may even perform other malicious acts like signing assets in your name without you knowing. As a rule of thumb, always ask for a receipt from your handler even if it is for simple errands like going grocery shopping. This allows you to keep an eye on your finances closely.

Next is sudden property loss. Other assets that are just as valuable as cash are property deeds, automobiles, jewelry sets, and expensive entertainment sets. If you notice your items suddenly disappearing without a trace, your handler might be responsible for this loss by selling them off without your notice.

Financial abuse towards the elderly is not always obvious. In fact, a large majority of the abusers are individuals that the seniors may know very well like family members and even old friends. Because of its seemingly close bond, many seniors often let these persons handle their assets despite the fact that they know deep down it is unlawful and unethical.

While these instances can be alarming, there are ways on how you can protect yourself from being taken advantage of. One way to do this is to hire an attorney who is able to oversee your assets. Additionally, individuals living in the United States may contact the Administration on Aging which is responsible for ensuring the rights and safety of the elderly and their assistants.




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