Elder abuse is on the rise - in large part thanks to COVID. Nowadays, many seniors are isolated or lack the social support they’ve had in the past. Plus, many caregivers are simply not equipped to be caregivers, and there are fewer that remain in the workforce. Without the right care, seniors are vulnerable to abuse such as verbal, emotional, and even financial abuse like scams.

Abuse can happen anywhere: not only in senior living, but often with family as well. That’s why it’s important to become aware of the signs. Senior Services Expert Lori Williams has tips to help you learn:

- What elder abuse is

- The different types of elder abuse

- How we can prevent it

- How to report it when we see it

And more.

It’s also important to be aware that elder abuse is changing with the times. There are many predatory tactics happening with technology too. It's critical information for you and your senior loved ones to know.

Topics discussed:

- Elder abuse

- Types of abuse

- Caregivers

- Scams

- COVID isolation

- Ombudsman

- Dementia

- Adult protective services

Takeaways from this episode:

- 60% of cases of elder abuse happens at the hands of a family member.

- The best way to prevent abuse is to educate others and talk about it. Also, be sure to check in on older adults and caregivers you may know.

- If you suspect elder abuse, call Adult Protective Services or a local long-term care ombudsman.

- Help your senior loved ones set their social media to private and let them know about the types of social media, phone call and text message scams.

- A common red flag in scams is if anyone asks you to wire money or send gift cards.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Adult Protective Services (located in all states)

Texas Adult Protective Services:

http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Adult_Protection/

036. The Role of the Ombudsman in Advocating for Seniors' Safety

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/79a3922f/036-the-role-of-the-ombudsman-in-advocating-for-seniors-care

Texas Ombudsman

https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/news_info/ombudsman/

044. How seniors can protect themselves against identity theft and scams

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/7900734e/044-how-seniors-can-protect-themselves-against-identity-theft-and-online-scams

Updated list of current scams to be aware of:

https://oig.ssa.gov/scam

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