When people think of nursing home abuse, what may come to mind is physical abuse. There are, however, several different forms of nursing home abuse that elders experience at the hands of their caretakers. Financial abuse of an elderly person involves the illegal or improper use of an elder’s funds, property, or assets. Get the facts on financial abuse of an elderly person so you know how to protect your loved one.
Identifying Financial Abuse
Financial abuse of an elderly person can take many different forms, but most commonly manifest in the following ways:
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Sudden changes in the elderly person’s bank account, including an unexplained withdrawal of large sums of money
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Unauthorized withdrawal of the elder’s funds using the elder’s ATM card
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Abrupt changes in a will or other financial documents
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Unexplained disappearance of funds or valuable possessions
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Discovery of an elderly person’s signature being forged
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Unexplained sudden transfer of assets to a family member or someone outside the family
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An elder’s report of financial exploitation
Reporting Nursing Home Abuse
If you suspect financial abuse, or any other type of elder abuse, it’s important to report it to the proper entities. Report any instances of suspected abuse to the nursing home staff as soon as possible. If you directly witness abuse, do not hesitate to contact the authorities. Law enforcement can open an investigation and help prevent the occurrence of any additional abuse
If you have reported abuse to the nursing home staff and you believe the issue has not been resolved, it’s in your best interest to contact a qualified personal injury attorney who can help you and your elderly relative obtain the justice you both deserve.
At Wagner Reese, our Indianapolis attorneys want to hear your story and help you hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Contact us today at (888) 204-8440 to learn how we can assist you.
