September 18, 2024

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41 minutes

Introducing Ep 014: Navigating Awareness and Protection for Elderly Scams and Abuse from Navigating H.O.P.E..

Follow the show: Navigating H.O.P.E.

"How can we protect our elderly loved ones from financial exploitation while preserving their dignity and independence?"

In this enlightening episode of Navigating H.O.P.E., Dr. Jaime Hope sits down with Dr. Elizabeth Landsverk, a distinguished geriatrician and expert in elder care. Dr. Landsverk shares her invaluable insights into the growing issue of elder financial exploitation and the challenges of safeguarding our aging loved ones. With her extensive experience in geriatrics, Dr. Landsverk discusses various scams targeting seniors, from phone schemes to deceptive caregivers, and provides practical advice on protecting elders without compromising their autonomy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone caring for aging parents or loved ones, offering both knowledge and tools to navigate this complex and often heartbreaking aspect of elder care.

Key Takeaways:

🧠 Awareness is Key: Understanding common scams and recognizing the signs of potential financial abuse can help protect your loved ones.

💼 Involve Trusted Individuals: Ensure that a reputable family member, fiduciary, or elder law attorney is involved in managing financial affairs.

🕵️ Look for Red Flags: Be wary of advisors or caregivers who try to control an elder’s finances or limit their contact with family.

🌐 Use Trusted Resources: For reliable information, consult organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association or Family Caregivers Alliance.

💡 Encourage Social Engagement: Keeping elders socially active can reduce their vulnerability to scams and improve their well-being.

⚠️ Understand Capacity: Be mindful of an elder's ability to understand risks and benefits, especially regarding financial decisions.

Quotes from Dr. Elizabeth Landsverk:

"Criminals diagnose dementia faster than doctors; they prey on cognitive decline and diminished risk assessment."

"You need to protect your loved ones' finances, but also allow them to maintain their dignity and autonomy."

"In elder care, it’s a delicate balance between protection and respecting their independence."

"Awareness and early intervention are crucial. Don’t wait for something to go wrong—be proactive."

For more information on elder care and to connect with Dr. Landsverk, visit DrLizGeriatrics.com. Tune in next time for more essential discussions on health and well-being with Navigating H.O.P.E..

✅ Be sure to download Green Flags, Red Flags When Choosing a Medical Provider

Link to opt in: https://www.familycaregiverhope.com/lm-green-red-flags

DISCLAIMER: Please note, this is an independent podcast episode not affiliated with, endorsed by, or produced in conjunction with the host podcast feed or any of its media entities. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are solely those of the creators and guests. For any concerns, please reach out to [email protected].

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