Who’s Helping Mom & Dad When the Kids Move Away?: elder abuse in Florida

Are you concerned that mom or dad could be the victim of elder abuse or financial exploitation?   Many times, mom or dad retire and move to Florida, while the kids grow up, stay put and raise families of their own back home:  hundreds or thousands of miles away from mom and dad.  Life gets busy.  The job is hectic and the family needs your attention and time.  Meanwhile, mom and dad age in Florida.  As we all age, our mental faculties and physical strength decrease.  Mom and dad are not as sharp as they used to be.   Over the years, they accumulate a modest fortune of a few million dollars:  some real estate, a Florida residence, an IRA or retirement account, a brokerage account and savings.   Your parents’ assets can be the target of elder abuse or financial exploitation by those who prey on the elderly in Florida.   Be cautious of new people in their lives who are getting very close to them.  Be aware of any new powers of attorney or other financial documents which your parents are signing in favor of someone new or unknown to you.   Critics of elder abuse would also tell you to be ware of people you know:  neighbors, friends and sales persons with an investment to pitch or a loan that’s requested.   There are no rules for financial exploitation.  Are bank accounts being changed?  Are names being placed on your parents’ bank accounts? Does someone have access to your parents’ home, mail and financial papers?  Can a stranger to the family see the monthly financial statements?  Did a neighbor ask for a loan for 30 days?   Luckily for Florida residents and their families, the state attorneys office in places like Palm Beach County, Florida have experts trained in identifying elder abuse, investigating it and prosecuting it.   Law enforcement know that our senior citizens, our elder community, can be victims of financial exploitation in Florida.  Do you have a plan?  Have you talked with mom or dad?  What have you done to protect them?