Elder Fraud by Relatives or Caregivers

Seniors and their loved ones should be very suspicious if they notice any of the following: A relative or caregiver becomes extremely interested in the elderly person's financial affairs. A caregiver is reluctant to spend money on necessary medical treatment. Someone prevents the elderly person from talking on the phone or doesn't pass along phone messages. There are unauthorized withdrawals from checking or savings accounts. The caregiver claims that some money is "missing." Or, there are new or recently changed legal documents, such as wills or "powers of attorney" that give this other person rights to conduct transactions.

What should you do in these circumstances? Talk to another family member, a lawyer who could intervene on your behalf, or someone else you know you can trust.