Protecting Vulnerable Seniors: Understanding and Preventing Elder Fraud Among Dementia Patients

Elder fraud is a growing concern, especially for seniors suffering from early signs of dementia. These individuals are often more vulnerable to scams and abuse due to their cognitive impairments. We want families and patients to be prepared as elder fraud is becoming more common throughout the United States where elder scams target dementia patients. We outline the Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act and provide tips on how to protect and support vulnerable seniors and loved ones.

What is Elder Fraud?

Elder fraud refers to the financial exploitation of older adults, typically those aged 60 and above. This type of fraud involves deceptive practices where scammers target seniors to steal their money, personal information, or property. Elder fraud can take many forms, including identity theft, telemarketing scams, internet fraud, and various financial schemes. 

Seniors are often targeted due to factors such as cognitive decline like dementia, social isolation, and accumulated savings, making them more susceptible to manipulation and deception. The consequences of elder fraud can be devastating, leading to significant financial loss, emotional distress, and a diminished quality of life for victims.

Common Elder Scams Targeting Dementia Patients

Elder scams are increasingly sophisticated, preying on the vulnerability and trust of seniors, particularly those with dementia. Scammers may not know they are targeting an older adult who has dementia, however, they are usually the victims. Here are some of the most common scams:

1. Romance Scam: Criminals pose as interested romantic partners on social media or dating websites, building trust over time to eventually steal money or personal information.
2. Tech Support Scam: Scammers pose as technology or customer support representatives, offering to help with non-existent issues such as computer viruses or hacked accounts, and then charge for their “services” or steal personal information.
3. Grandparent Scam: Fraudsters impersonate a relative, usually a child or grandchild, claiming to be in immediate financial need and asking for money.
4. Government Impersonation Scam: Scammers pose as government employees and threaten to arrest or prosecute victims unless they agree to pay a certain amount of money.
5. Sweepstakes/Lottery/Inheritance Scam: Criminals claim the victim has won a lottery or sweepstakes, or is receiving an inheritance from a distant or unknown relative, but must pay fees and taxes to claim the money.
6. Investment Scam: Scammers offer unsuitable investments, fraudulent offerings, and unrecognized products, resulting in the theft or misappropriation of funds.
7. Charity Scam: Fraudsters claim to work for a charitable organization to gain the victim’s trust and obtain donations, which they then pocket.

Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act

The Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act (EAPPA), enacted in 2017, is a significant step forward in combating elder abuse and fraud. This legislation aims to enhance the federal government’s ability to prevent, investigate, and prosecute elder abuse and exploitation. Key provisions include:

• Enhanced Penalties: The Act increases penalties for crimes involving elder abuse, including fraud and exploitation.
• Training for Law Enforcement: It mandates training for federal law enforcement officers and prosecutors on how to identify and handle elder abuse cases effectively.
• Interagency Coordination: The Act promotes better coordination among federal, state, and local agencies to protect seniors and prosecute offenders.
• Victim Assistance Programs: It provides for improved support and services for elder abuse victims, including legal assistance and counseling.

Protecting and Supporting Seniors with Dementia

To protect seniors with dementia from fraud and abuse, caregivers and loved ones can take several proactive steps:

1. Stay Informed: Educate yourself and your loved one about common scams and warning signs. Regularly review accounts and transactions for unusual activity.
2. Secure Personal Information: Keep sensitive documents, such as social security numbers, bank statements, and medical records, in a secure place. Be cautious about sharing personal information online or over the phone.
3. Monitor Financial Activity: Regularly monitor bank and credit card statements for unauthorized transactions. Consider setting up alerts for unusual account activity.
4. Use Trusted Contacts: Encourage the use of trusted contacts for financial and healthcare decisions. Life Span CM offers care management to ensure legal safeguards, such as power of attorney, to manage financial matters if the senior becomes incapacitated.
5. Report Suspicious Activity: If you suspect fraud or abuse, report it immediately to local law enforcement, adult protective services, or the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
6. Support Networks: Build a network of trusted family members, friends, and professionals who can help monitor and protect the senior. Regular check-ins and visits can help identify and address potential issues early.

Elder fraud is a serious issue that disproportionately affects seniors with dementia. Understanding common scams and taking proactive steps to protect vulnerable individuals is crucial. Learn more about new scams and elder fraud at AARP or call us for Care Management. The Elder Abuse Prevention and Prosecution Act provides a robust framework for preventing and prosecuting elder abuse, but vigilance and support from caregivers and loved ones remain essential.

By staying informed and connected, we can help safeguard the financial and emotional well-being of seniors with dementia, ensuring they live with dignity and security in their later years.