Protecting your loved ones in nursing homes goes beyond ensuring their physical well-being. Financial abuse is a hidden threat that can devastate elderly residents and their families.
Many people don’t realize how common this problem is or how to spot it. Thankfully, you can take an active role in safeguarding your family members by knowing what to look out for. Doing so can help you intervene before the situation worsens.
Warning signs to watch for
Financial abuse isn’t always obvious, but certain red flags might point to a problem. Keep these warning signs in mind when visiting your loved one:
- Unexplained withdrawals: You might notice large or frequent withdrawals from your family member’s bank account that don’t make sense.
- Changes in spending: Your loved one’s financial situation or spending habits might suddenly shift without a clear reason.
- Missing valuables: Personal belongings, jewelry, or other precious items might disappear from your relative’s room.
- Unusual account activity: New credit cards or accounts might show up in your family member’s name without their knowledge.
- Altered documents: You might see abrupt changes to wills, power of attorney, or other important financial papers.
Remember, these signs don’t always mean abuse is happening, but they’re worth looking into. Trust your gut if something feels off.
Steps to take if you suspect abuse
If you think your loved one might be a victim of financial abuse, don’t panic. There are steps you can take to address the situation:
- Write down what you’ve noticed and when
- Talk to the nursing home management about your concerns
- Reach out to Minnesota’s Department of Human Services
- Get advice from a lawyer knowledgeable in elder abuse cases
- Contact local law enforcement if you believe a crime has occurred
Acting quickly can help stop the abuse and protect your family member’s finances. You know your loved one best, so trust your instincts if something seems wrong.
Staying alert to the signs of financial abuse in nursing homes can have a positive effect. By keeping an eye out for warning signs and knowing how to respond, you can help keep your loved ones’ finances intact.