Unfortunately, stories of elderly abuse — especially those involving financial deception — are all too common. A large number of these cases occur within the walls of Seattle nursing homes and hospitals. Some incidents, shockingly enough, can be traced back to an elderly person’s own family member.
Discovering that an elderly loved one has been the victim of abuse is heartbreaking, as it can often present a complex situation. One article from Forbes asks readers whether they would be willing to report family members for financial elder abuse, given the inevitably emotional obstacles that can ensue. Forbes quotes a study from the National Center on Elder Abuse, which shares that only 44 out of 1,000 cases of abuse are reported. For some, reporting a daughter or son can be an excruciating process on its own. Other family members simply wish to avoid contention during a time that is likely already painful. Forbes urges its audience to call out family members who have abused vulnerable elderly patients, and adds that people may report cases anonymously.
U.S. News also raises concern in regard to elder abuse within the family, highlighting one story in which a daughter racked up a $120,000 credit card bill all while her mother was recovering from a long battle of depression. The news outlet reiterates that this type of abuse is, in fact, financial exploitation, and that family members should take responsibility for their actions. Not only do elderly people lose money; they also commonly lose homes, cars and other property at the hands of their own family members. Victims are also known to withdraw, losing trust in everyone and becoming distressed and isolated. U.S. News mentions Adult Protective Services as one of many resources that can assist during such shocking and upsetting times.
