Senior Living

Identifying Elderly Who Are Being Exploited

April 18, 2022Filed Under: Elder Law, Senior Living

People who believe they are making a charitable donation to help less fortunate people are scammed by scammers who take advantage of their good intentions. Auto call lists that easily identify older victims and the ubiquitous online world of emails, fake mirror websites, disingenuous GoFundMe pages, even postal mail scams can overwhelm an older adult trying to figure out what is real.

While these scams may seem obvious to many people, fraud perpetrators know how to target vulnerable people who are less likely to pick up on the signs of a scam, often becoming victimized. We often warn our elders of financial fraud via unknown callers and the internet reminding them never to give out personal information, and that is important. Sadly, however, most financial exploitations happen through caregivers, family members, friends, or trusted individuals. To best protect an older loved one, it is vital to keep a watchful eye on the signs of financial exploitation, in whatever form.

How to Identify Elderly Most At Risk

The first step is to identify who is most at risk. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) defines elder financial exploitation as “the misuse or withholding of an older adult’s resources by another” and is a form of elder abuse. Those older individuals who are lonely or isolated tend to be more at risk of financial exploitation. Increased risks are also associated with those who have mental or physical disabilities. And for those families with members who have financial or substance abuse issues, there is an increased risk of financial exploitation of their elders. Couple any of the above situations with an older individual who lacks control or familiarity with their finances, and the consequences may be disastrous.

There are warning signs of financial exploitation to be mindful of, including:

Money management changes – This can be a change in the individuals tasked with financial oversight (professional or personal), new routine bank account withdrawals, or significant changes in account balances. Look for unexpected opening or closing accounts, changes in spending habits, disconnected utilities, or missed bill payments.
Changes in individual associations – Any new “friend” that may try to isolate your loved one is a likely sign of undue influence, control, or manipulation. Any recent individual (professional or personal) who tries to withhold income or assets is very suspect. Additionally, be wary of those who pressure a loved one to give gifts such as cash, property, or making personal loans without documentation or belief that the person will repay the loan under the terms and conditions.
Changes in legal documents – Newly drafted legal documents that seem unusual or have forged signatures are apparent signs of problems. Also, look for alterations in existing documents, pre-signed withdrawal slips or checks, and transfers made without the knowledge or understanding of the older person.
Changes in the older individual’s behavior – If your loved one exhibits fear, shame, humiliation, confusion about their finances, or an unwillingness to discuss money or get counsel, these are indications they need help now. These feelings and introversion may be due to deteriorating or untreated health or medical conditions, making them vulnerable to exploitation. It may also be a sign of ongoing financial exploitation. Any indicators of other abuse, such as physical or emotional neglect or abuse, even missing property, are warning signs that financial exploitation is occurring.

What can you do if you suspect or know that your elder loved one is experiencing financial exploitation or abuse?

Immediately report your suspicions or findings to law enforcement, adult protective services, their and your attorney, other responsible fiduciaries who are involved, and local elder agencies. It is helpful beyond measure to report to as many agencies and responsible, involved parties as possible. Quick action and reporting increase the chance to recover assets. Also, protect your elder loved one from the abuser. Create space between the parties. Do not permit contact to ensure the victim’s safety.

Many older individuals shy from reporting financial exploitation due to fear of retaliation, losing independence, or the embarrassment suffered for being duped. Other victims may be mentally or physically unable to recognize the abuse or take too long to recognize what was happening to stop it. And sometimes, seemingly radical changes in financial accounts are for legitimate reasons such as estate planning or preparing to enter a nursing home, so be sure of your suspicions.

If you find actual financial exploitation or abuse, contacting proper authorities is the key to the best outcomes. Professional service people follow processes to protect the victim’s person and then seek to recover missing assets. Elder financial abuse can create heartbreaking situations, leaving the victims destitute. Learn about elder financial abuse to protect your loved ones from the scams at large and the family or other close individuals who might seek to take advantage of them. We hope you found this article helpful. If you have questions or would like to discuss your personal situation, please don’t hesitate to contact us at 513-771-2444.

A Pandemic Can Have a Silver Lining

February 21, 2022Filed Under: Senior Living

As a result of the COVID-19 business closures, record unemployment rates have hurt business owners and their workers, many of whom are 50 or older. Though workers of all ages have felt the effects of unemployment or reduced working hours, older workers will fare worse upon re-entering the workforce. Research shows the recession of 2008 found that those adults age 62 or more were the least likely group to re-enter the workforce, and it is most likely as the employment situation stabilizes the same will hold in 2020. Ageism plays a role when employers have huge swaths of potential employees from which to choose.

Elderly Unemployment During Coronavirus

Many unemployed older workers feel the effects of income loss and wild financial market swings wreaking havoc on their retirement savings accounts, as well as the potential that Social Security benefits may be reduced in the near future. Happily, before the pandemic, a trend towards later retirement, transitional work, and “encore” careers became the norm. Out of either necessity or desire, aging Americans choose to be active in the workforce, and policies and practices are starting to catch up to age discrimination. AARP has more than 350 companies that have signed an Employer Pledge that sources experienced workers. These companies provide job opportunities and career fairs online that are age-diverse.

COVID-19 Leading to Seniors Sheltering in Place

Sheltering in place during this pandemic has kept many older Americans from having pre-existing physical, social, and emotional needs met as healthcare systems and network services for seniors are minimizing service to large numbers to protect and serve the most vulnerable. This disruption of services like regular check-ups and elective procedures leads to a lack of personal care, proper nutrition, and medical management for many. Telehealth can remotely connect a patient to a medical professional, and with wearable devices, important medical information can be assessed in real-time by a doctor. If the situation warrants, medical intervention will follow. In the case of nutrition, beyond take-out and meal delivery services, grocery stores are now providing home delivery systems for fresh food. These delivery services include Instacart, Walmart Grocery, Safeway Grocery Delivery, Kroger ClickList, Vitacost, Peapod, AmazonFresh, and more.

Seniors Loneliness During the Pandemic

The effects of increased isolation are producing more anxiety and depression in aging Americans. Loneliness is linked to negative mental and physical health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cognitive decline, obesity, and death. The good news is that we live in a digital age where the Internet of Things (IoT) can connect people virtually. There is a steady growth of tech-savvy seniors who are well-versed in the use of digital devices and apps that let them talk in real-time to family and friends. Family and inter-generational connections are stronger than ever since this pandemic has encouraged everyone to stay in touch. Programs like Students4Seniors and ZoomerstoBoomers are examples of younger generations lending a helping hand to seniors. Digital social connection is combating the negative consequences of isolationism.

Before the coronavirus, only about one-half of Americans have had conversations about their end-of-life situation with loved ones. Only 27 percent of those have legal documentation reflecting their wishes. The need to address mortality is uncomfortable but unavoidable for older Americans during this pandemic as they are disproportionately dying from COVID-19. There are general and specific pandemic-related end-of-life planning resources online that can help a senior think through scenarios before meeting with their attorney. Most law groups and individual attorneys are now set up for teleconference or video conference to create advance directives and associated legal documents. Many states are permitting online signatures for these documents during the pandemic.

Solutions to the Issues of the Coronavirus Pandemic

For every negative consequence of the coronavirus pandemic, there are solutions that drive positive outcomes, especially in the case of seniors. Efforts that improve the services of private and non-profit agencies, advocacy groups and policymaking, healthcare, and business models are accelerating to meet the needs of our most vulnerable population. Technology, creativity, and sensitivity to senior needs are making life a better experience during a difficult time not only for seniors but also for the families and providers meeting those needs that create a stronger, more interconnected America that values its elders. If you’d like to discuss your particular situation, please contact our Cincinnati office by calling us at 513-771-2444.

Easing Isolation for Seniors While Maintaining Social Distance

January 24, 2022Filed Under: Senior Health and Wellness, Senior Living

Our ability to socialize has been severely impacted by medically suggested protocols for social distancing and government mandates restricting large gatherings to slow down the spread of the coronavirus. This isolation holds especially true for those seniors who live alone or in long-term health care facilities. Human beings are, by nature, designed for close contact and social interaction. Maintaining human connection, whether it be family or casual acquaintances, can help boost immunity, combat anxiety and stress, and can even lower health risks that are exacerbated by stress like heart attacks and hypertension.

The Association of Health Care Journalists reports that it is critical for older adults’ well-being to maintain social ties. Those seniors who experience loneliness and social isolation are more likely to develop dementia, more likely to fall, have an increase in hospital readmissions, and an increase in mortality. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, health care facilities and hospitals across the country have put a pause on in-person visitation. This separation will protect the most vulnerable populations, such as older adults and those individuals with chronic health conditions.

To help your loved ones in a facility or living on their own during this challenging time of COVID-19 Right at Home, a leader in the in-home senior care industry, has some ideas to stay connected to those you love who are isolated during this outbreak.

Set up phone dates. Scheduling a regular call at a prescribed time and date brings you closer through conversation and also gives a senior something to look forward to experiencing. Do not over-promise. It is better to have two calls a week that you always attend rather than to miss a promised chat session because you overscheduled your time.
Write letters to each other. Getting postal mail is fun for all ages, especially when it is a letter, filled with memories of shared times. Include self-addressed stamped envelopes back and forth to encourage continuing the exchange. Lonely seniors will usually re-read these notes and treasure them.
Set up chatty technology. Whether it’s a tablet, home device, or smartphone, you can use your digital device to use apps like Facebook Messenger, Alexa, FaceTime, Skype, and more to videoconference with your senior. If your senior needs some technical help, most health care workers will be able to help get them started as you will not be permitted to be onsite.
Virtually watch movies together. If you and your senior have a desktop computer or laptop that uses the Chrome browser, Netflix Party will synchronize video playback and add group chat capability to your chosen show or movie. It’s like having a long-distance movie night or tv watching party.
Attend online events and activities. Participating online is a big deal when faced with isolation. There are thousands of people online who have similar interests as you. com is a free membership group that has 24 separate categories, like dance, language, and culture, photography, family, tech, health and wellness, music, and more. All of these categories host multiple online events in which your senior can participate.
Attend virtual religious services. Faith is so important right now, especially for some seniors. If your loved one has a worship service they used to attend, see if they are now providing their services online. Many houses of worship have Facebook pages where a service is a click away. It will lift your senior’s spirits immensely to see and listen to their familiar pastor, rabbi, or priest.
Make use of the public library online. More than ever, libraries are offering their services for things like movies, e-books, and audiobooks.
Stay physically active. Log into a virtual exercise class online. Most of the classes are free, and they are found everywhere on YouTube. Just be sure to search for an exercise class that is appropriate for your age and physical abilities. As with any new exercise regime, always consult your doctor first.
Get outdoors, even for 5 minutes. If at all possible to do safely, step outside on the porch, patio, or balcony and encourage your loved one to do the same. Take in some sunshine and fresh air, take a deep breath and see the bigger picture of life.

Prolonged loneliness can bring about depression and even dementia. However, social distancing does not have to bring about social disconnection. Employ some of these ideas in the world of your senior to protect them from isolation during this pandemic. It is crucial to your loved one’s wellbeing to have direction and routine, hope, and human connection.

We are also using video technology for our meetings so we can continue to help with the planning needs of our community. If you have questions about what you read or would like to discuss planning for you or a loved one, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Please contact our Cincinnati office by calling us at 513-771-2444 with any questions. We would be honored to help.

Seniors and Their Caregivers Aided by New Tech Apps

November 15, 2021Filed Under: Senior Living

The speed by which technology evolves can be intimidating to anyone. For many seniors, these changes can be so daunting that they tend to avoid technology altogether. While seniors have increasingly embraced technology in recent years, data from Pew Research shows that as many as one-third of those over the age of 65 do not use the Internet, and nearly half do not have home broadband services.

Still, technology can be a key aspect of keeping seniors — who tend to spend more time alone than their younger counterparts — engaged and connected. It can also help caregivers to stay connected to their patients or loved ones.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits of tech apps for the aging population.

Staying connected. Social connections are healthy for people of all ages, and this can be especially true for seniors. While there is no substitute for human interaction, technology can help to fill the gap for seniors who are away from family members or friends. Whether in person or online via video or messaging technology, social interaction can potentially lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s, according to medical professionals. Apps such as Facebook and Instagram can help seniors connect with loved ones and caregivers.

Keeping active. There is no shortage of apps to help people stay active these days and seniors can certainly benefit from this technology. For those who can no longer drive or who do not have a neighborhood rec center with fitness classes, technologies such as those provided by the Nintendo Wii can help to get seniors moving wherever they are. Whether it’s tennis or yoga, these apps also offer fun activities for seniors and their loved ones or caregivers to do together.

Staying mentally sharp. Mental exercise is just as important as physical for the elderly. We’ve all heard how crossword and Sudoku puzzles can help thwart memory problems, but today there are countless other online games and mobile apps seniors can use to help stay mentally sharp. Not only can seniors do a crossword puzzle on the computer or mobile device, but they can also play solitaire, trivia, and memory games.

Managing medical records and medication. Today just about every doctor’s office offers records and correspondence online. This makes it easier for seniors to keep track of appointments and health records. There are also plenty of apps available — such as Medisafe — to help seniors keep track of medication dosing, schedules, and pharmacy refills. These types of apps help seniors make sure they don’t miss a dosage or inadvertently double up on medication if they’re having trouble keeping track due to memory problems or illness.

Keeping seniors safe at home. Most seniors want to retain their independence for as long as possible. That means remaining in their own homes as they age. By using technology they can better ensure their safety and their loved ones’ peace of mind while remaining independent. Seniors living alone should always have some type of personal emergency response system or PERS. These are devices that help a person call for help by pushing a button, and connected mobile apps can alert family members or caregivers in the event of an emergency. These technologies activate the appropriate emergency response, helping seniors to avoid the frightening situation of trying to handle a medical or another emergency on their own and giving their loved ones peace of mind.

Managing finances and bills. Seniors are often reluctant to hand over the reins when it comes to managing their budget and finances. Maintaining that control helps instill a stronger sense of independence. Apps like Mint can help seniors manage these tasks and help ensure due dates aren’t missed or payments aren’t overlooked altogether. These apps can also help caregivers maintain a repository of their loved one’s budget and financial obligations.

While tech apps can seem daunting for seniors (48 percent of those over 65 say that they need assistance using new technologies and devices), with the proper support and training they can be a powerful tool for helping seniors maintain their health and independence.

If you’d like to learn more about empowering yourself and your loved ones with proper care and planning, our firm can help. Please contact our Cincinnati office by calling us at 513-771-2444 with any questions.