Everyone has a role to play in identifying and preventing financial elder abuse. The following are signs to watch for, that it could be happening to an older person you know.
Here are 7 signs of financial elder abuse to look for:
1. The person tells you someone is taking advantage of them
If someone tells you they are being abused, pressured or coerced, it is best to believe them, take their claims seriously, ask questions and offer support.
2. They are having trouble paying their bills
Despite a history of being financially responsible, bills are not being paid on time. You may notice unpaid bills piling up, collection notices or unopened mail accumulating.
3. They are no longer buying things they need, like clothes, personal hygiene products, groceries or medications
You notice a decline in their standard of living that is not in keeping with their income or usual habits.
4. Sudden or large amounts of cash are being withdrawn from their accounts
Unusual changes to a person’s financial behavior, especially cash withdrawals or transfers of money are occurring. This is particularly questionable if they do not appear to be spending this money on themselves.
5. Unexplained disappearances of their possessions, jewelry or art
Precious and valuable items appear to be missing from their homes. This could be a result of theft, pawning or pressured gifting.
6. Surprising changes to their living arrangements
This can include someone unexpectedly moving in with them (potentially rent-free) or the sudden sale of the person’s home.
7. Misuse of Power of Attorney (PoA)
The Power of Attorney makes decisions or takes actions, which are not in the best interests of the older adult. Examples of abuse include theft or misuse of funds or going against the older adult’s wishes.
Additional resources
Visit the Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (CNPEA) and Elder Abuse Prevention Ontario (EAPO) for more resources and tips. You may also wish to contact local law enforcement agencies (police) for further guidance.
Financial abuse is one of the most common forms of elder abuse in Canada. Learn how to identify and prevent it, plus where to go for help if you or an older person you know is being financially exploited.
If you have any suspicions that you or someone you know may have been a victim of fraud, please reach out to our Contact Centre at the Ontario Securities Commission: 1-877-785-1555.
