Elder Financial Abuse—Crime of the Century

Aug 21, 2013 | Financial Abuse

Judge's Gavel

Twenty-five years ago, domestic violence was commonly referred to as a “hidden” crime, which had only recently been uncovered and exposed by the national media. Today, it is elder abuse that often goes unrecognized and under-reported. Although domestic violence is now routinely publicized as a critical issue, worthy of attention in political campaigns and hearings at city hall, the victims are portrayed as young girlfriends, wives or others in intimate relationships. The elderly woman or gentleman who has endured decades of beatings is rarely pictured—despite the fact that it is rare for an abuser to change his or her behavior after serving a prison term or completing a batterer’s intervention program. Moreover, other wounds suffered by the older victim may not be visible. Financial exploitation, emotional abuse and neglect can cause great pain and suffering among victims and hasten premature death. Exploiters of the elderly include adult children, grandchildren, neighbors, home aides and fiduciaries. Cases involving the victimization of older spouses, partners, parents and grandparents, and especially cases involving fraud or theft of a victim’s life savings, are currently missing from most Domestic Violence public awareness campaigns—despite the fact that they account for most of the cases reported to law enforcement. Food for thought.