Sarah is a dedicated professional who balances a demanding career with caring for her aging mother, Margaret. Sarah visits Margaret every weekend, enjoying their time together over tea and conversation. Lately, however, Sarah has noticed changes in her mother that raise concern. Margaret seems unusually withdrawn, more anxious, and her cheerful demeanor has dimmed. Determined to find out what’s wrong, Sarah embarks on a journey to uncover the truth and protect her beloved mother.
A Call to Awareness
During Elder Abuse Awareness Month, stories like Sarah’s highlight the importance of recognizing and addressing elder abuse. Elder abuse affects millions of seniors each year, taking a significant toll on their well-being and quality of life. Sarah’s discovery and proactive steps can inspire others to take action to protect their loved ones.
Understanding Elder Abuse
Elder abuse can manifest in various ways. Sarah learned about the different forms and the red flags associated with each.
1. Financial Exploitation: Sarah noticed Margaret’s bank statements showed unexplained withdrawals and sudden financial changes. Alarmed, she discovered that a supposed “friend” had been taking advantage of Margaret, manipulating her into signing checks and altering her will.
Red Flags: Unexplained withdrawals, sudden changes in financial condition, missing personal belongings, or alterations in wills and other financial documents.
2. Neglect: On a recent visit, Sarah found that Margaret’s once immaculate home was now untidy, and Margaret’s personal hygiene had declined. She realized that the caregiver Margaret trusted was neglecting her duties, leaving Margaret without proper care and basic necessities.
Red Flags: Poor hygiene, untreated medical issues, unsafe living conditions, and lack of food, water, and clean clothing.
3. Emotional Abuse: Sarah also noticed that Margaret had become fearful and anxious, particularly around her caregiver. Margaret seemed hesitant to speak up, often glancing nervously at the caregiver during conversations.
Red Flags: Withdrawal from normal activities, sudden mood changes, fearfulness around certain individuals, or unexplained depression and anxiety.
Recognizing the Signs
Recognizing the signs of elder abuse early can prevent further harm. Sarah learned to look for:
- Physical Signs: Bruises, cuts, burns, or other unexplained injuries.
- Behavioral Signs: Withdrawal from social interactions, fearfulness, anxiety, or sudden changes in alertness and mood.
- Financial Signs: Unexpected changes in banking practices, such as large withdrawals, missing funds, or unauthorized use of credit cards.
- Environmental Signs: Unsanitary or unsafe living conditions, lack of basic utilities, or untreated health problems.
Taking Action
Empowered with knowledge, Sarah took decisive steps to protect Margaret:
1. Stay Vigilant: Sarah began visiting more frequently and staying connected through daily phone calls, reducing Margaret’s social isolation and keeping a closer eye on her well-being.
2. Report Suspicions: Sarah reported her concerns to local adult protective services (APS) and law enforcement. The authorities investigated and took appropriate action, ensuring Margaret’s safety.
3. Provide Support: Sarah offered emotional support, reassuring Margaret that she was not alone and that help was available. She spent more quality time with Margaret, helping her feel valued and secure.
4. Implement Legal Safeguards: Sarah contacted an attorney to create a comprehensive estate plan for Margaret.
This included:
Power of Attorney: Designating Sarah as the trusted person to manage Margaret’s financial and healthcare decisions.
Living Will and Trusts: Clearly outlining Margaret’s wishes and legally protecting her assets.
Protecting Assets and Autonomy
Sarah’s efforts to establish a solid legal foundation helped secure Margaret’s financial resources, maintain her autonomy, and ensure her wishes were respected. Creating an estate plan proved to be a powerful tool against elder abuse.
Take the Next Step
Sarah’s story underscores the importance of proactive measures in protecting our loved ones. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Contact Skipton Law today to discuss how we can help you safeguard your loved ones’ assets, autonomy, and independence through comprehensive estate and elder law planning. Or, register for our upcoming estate planning and elder law workshop.
By working together, we can raise awareness about elder abuse and take meaningful steps to protect our seniors. Let’s ensure a safe, dignified future for all.
Sarah’s journey to protect her mother doesn’t have to be unique. Let us help you write a safer, more secure chapter for you and your loved ones.