Some people use alarm systems.
- Do not keep large amounts of money in the house
- Know who your neighbors are or join a Neighborhood Watch Program
- Keep your car doors locked when driving
- Do not open your car door or roll down your windows for strangers.
- Park in well-lit parking areas.
- Never give personal information such as credit card numbers, social security numbers, or bank account numbers over the phone.
- Shred personal information before discarding.
- Be careful about making purchases online - check that the server is secure.
- Check with the Federal Trade Commission to learn about more tips for protecting yourself against identity theft and fraud.
Avoiding Elder Abuse
- Reporting abuse to appropriate authorities is a legal and moral responsibility in most States.
- You can contact State Adult Protective Service programs for help.
- Lawyers may be able to assist harmed individuals.
- Unusual bank account activity, such as ATM withdrawals at a bank the elder cannot travel to
- Signatures on checks and documents that do not match the elder's signature
- Unexplained change in spending patterns or unusual/out of character purchases
- Unusual medical charges or nursing home charges
- Generous gifts to a person the elder has only met recently
- Change in lawyer or bank for unknown reason
- Change in who has power of attorney for unknown reason
- Stranger who initiates close relationship with elder and offers to manage finances and assets
Elder financial exploitation often goes unreported.
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