Beware sweet-talking financial abusers targeting elders in Virginia

Think you and your loved ones are not at risk to a financial swindler?  Think again.  These silver-tongued devils can talk their way into anyone’s bank account.  Especially at risk?  Your elderly family members.

Many older Virginians still alive today spent much of their life scrimping and saving to provide a comfortable life for their family and to see them through their golden years.  The nest eggs that they sit on can be like catnip to financial swindlers.

Phony investment schemes, fake sob stories, not-so-earnest pleas for help – these financial abusers have many tricks up their sleeves to get elders to trust them.  Whether an elder is living in their own home, in a nursing home or assisted living facility, or if they live with family – they are at risk of being abused financially.

Towns with large elderly populations are especially at risk, as these areas are magnets for swindlers.  Concerned about your loved one?  There are steps you can take to look out for their financial well-being.  If you suspect that a family member is being taken advantage of by another family member or a complete stranger, don’t be afraid to act – you could save your loved one thousands of dollars and mountains of grief.

Read more about elder financial abuse:

• Signs an elder you know may be vulnerable to financial abuse
• Are elder financial abuse cases on the rise in Virginia?
• Information about financial exploitation in Virginia nursing homes