Why are Seniors So Vulnerable to Financial Abuse in San Jose?
There is nothing a scam artist likes more than a vulnerable senior citizen. The elderly are prime targets for these criminals, and unfortunately, they have good reason to focus on these people. Senior citizens in San Jose are much more vulnerable to financial abuse than essentially any other sub-group in the population. This is due to a number of factors. Some of these factors may be somewhat obvious, but others might surprise you.
If you are a concerned family member, it makes sense to keep your eyes peeled for any potential signs of financial abuse. However, the best solution is to prevent this from happening in the first place. You can do this by becoming more familiar with the vulnerabilities of your senior loved one. Once you become aware of the weak points that a scam artist will target, it becomes easier to protect them from harm.
Of course, your first step should always be to enlist the help of a qualified elder abuse attorney in San Jose. Our legal professionals have plenty of experience, and we know exactly how scam artists will target your senior loved one. We are familiar with the specific threats posed to elderly citizens who are living in nursing homes or assisted-living facilities. With our help, you can protect your loved ones from financial abuse. In addition, we can work together to hold guilty parties accountable for taking advantage of your loved one.
Lack of Familiarity with Modern Technology
Perhaps one of the most notable challenges facing seniors today is the rapid advancement of technology. Although many seniors seem to adjust relatively well, others can easily feel left behind. This is one of the key reasons why so many senior citizens in California fall victim to internet scams, text message schemes, and a variety of other digital crimes. If possible, you should educate your loved one about the prevalence of these digital crimes and make them aware of the warning signs. Unfortunately, there is not much the authorities can do about this, since hackers and online criminals are often hard to catch.
Cognitive Decline: Another factor to consider is cognitive decline. Seniors may simply not be as sharp as they once were, and this makes them easy to take advantage of. Those suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s are particularly vulnerable. When a senior becomes confused, they may simply agree to sign papers or hand over money even if they do not fully understand what they are doing.
Being Overly Trusting: Seniors may also be overly trusting of certain people. The truth is that a lot has changed over the past few decades. Crime rates have risen, and communities are not as civilized as they once were. In the 1950s, someone might not have thought twice about letting their kids run around the neighborhood unattended or leaving their door unlocked while they ran out to buy a carton of milk. Seniors may still assume that people today are just as trustworthy as they once were. Often, they put far too much trust in those closest to them, including caretakers, nurses, or even close family members. These individuals can all commit financial abuse. Indeed, it is often those who are closest to seniors who commit these acts.
Lack of Independence: Seniors may also be more vulnerable to financial abuse because of their lack of independence. They may allow other people to handle financial matters on their behalf. This increases the potential for financial abuse dramatically, especially if the senior is incapacitated or suffering from cognitive decline.
The Effects of Financial Abuse: It is important to understand that the effects of financial abuse can impact the entire family. When a senior citizen is scammed out of their money, it can leave families with nothing to inherit. Your family members may be relying on this money for a number of things. For example, your children’s college tuition may be dependent on inheritance from a senior loved one. This means that it is always in the family’s best interests to detect and prevent any instances of financial abuse.
Enlist the Help of a Qualified Attorney Today
If you have been searching the San Jose area for an elder abuse attorney, look no further than Mary Alexander & Associates. Over the years, we have helped numerous caretakers and family members who want to protect their senior loved ones from harm. We understand that elder financial abuse can be crippling, not just for the senior, but also for the entire family. While seniors may be vulnerable to scams and frauds, they do not have to be victims. Whether you want to protect your loved one or take action against those who have committed financial abuse, we are ready and willing to help. Reach out today, book your consultation, and we can develop an effective action plan together.
