NCJ Number
145396
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect Volume: 3 Issue: 4 Dated: (1991) Pages: 23-40
Date Published
1991
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article examines the problem of financial exploitation of the elderly. Characteristics of victims and offenders, risk factors and indicators of abuse, and crimes that can be charged are discussed.
Abstract
Financial exploitation of the elderly is one of the most common forms of elder abuse. This article discusses the characteristics of persons most at risk of being the victims of this type of abuse and characteristics associated with offenders. Vulnerability, naivete and the difficulties elderly victims face in pressing charges are given as reasons old people are targeted. Indicators that should alert social service staff that financial abuse may be occurring or has occurred are enumerated. These include the suspected offender's behavior and other facts that warrant careful investigation. A list of some of the crimes offenders who financially exploit the elderly can be charge with is provided. Successful prosecution of these cases requires cooperation between protective service professionals, law enforcement officers and prosecutors. Recommendations are made for procedures social service personnel should follow to protect potential victims and to assist prosecutors and law enforcement officials in the event criminal charges are brought.