A Virginia news source has reported that approximately one million older Americans are the victims of financial abuse each year. The theft of roughly $2.9 billion per year is the result of abusive family members, neighbors, friends, caregivers, and financial officers.
In response to the growing problem, the New River Valley Elder Justice Coalition plans to sponsor a Community Dialogue on Financial Abuse among Older Adults next month. The event will feature representatives from local law enforcement, long-term care, banking and finance, and adult protective services.
According to the coalition, the typical victim of elder financial abuse is a frail white female, 70-89 years of age with cognitive impairment. Financial elder abuse often results in credit problems, health issues, depression and loss of independence. The event planners hope to raise awareness regarding the issue and provide answers to community questions. For more, read the story.
Robert W. Carter, Jr. is a Virginia attorney whose law practice is dedicated to protecting the rights of the victims of nursing home and assisted living neglect and abuse in Richmond, Roanoke, Norfolk, Lynchburg, Danville, Charlottesville, and across Virginia.
