Many people are aware of the tragic cases of physical and mental elder abuse that occur in nursing homes across the country. However, many don’t know about another form of elder abuse that also takes advantage of those who are at their most vulnerable, financial abuse. Elder financial abuse can be carried out in a number of ways, all of which serve to enrich the life of the abuser, including:
- Forging an elderly person’s signature on checks or financial documents.
- Stealing money or personal property from an elderly person.
- Using an elderly person’s possessions without getting permission.
- Coercing an elderly person to update his or her will.
- Getting an elderly person to sign a deed, loan document, or power of attorney document by using coercion, deception, or undue influence.
- Promising to care for an elderly person in exchange for money or property and then failing to provide the promised care.
- Using scare tactics or deception to scam elderly people out of money.
- Using an elderly person’s credit card without permission.
The financial abuser can be anyone who has access to the victim – children, spouses, grandchildren, and caregivers. Abusers may have financial problems, substance abuse issues, or gambling debts. Some abusers specifically seek access to older people by applying for jobs in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Financial abuse can lead to a significant loss of funds for those victimized.
When you place your loved one in a nursing home, you expect that he or she will receive quality care in a safe environment. If your loved one has suffered physical, mental, or financial abuse at the hands of an abusive caregiver, contact the San Jose personal injury attorneys at Van Der Walde & Associates. We will help you fight for the justice you deserve. Call us at (877) 862-6288 to schedule a free review of your case.
