Paying attention to clues that something's wrong with
an elderly friend or relative can pay off. The trick is to recognize
the clues when they appear and act fast.
Which signals should you be on the alert for? While
these changes don't always mean something sinister is happening,
they can be an indication.
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Look for:
An unexplained change for the worse in the person's
standard of living.
A marked difference in personality or habits that
coincide with the arrival of a new friend, romantic interest, caretaker
or even a relative.
Changes in long-standing financial arrangements,
such as a new will or cashed CDs.
Forged documents.
Signs the person isn't well-cared for, including
changes in health, personal hygiene, eating habits or surroundings.
Unexplained charges on credit cards or withdrawals
from bank accounts.
The disappearance of jewelry or other valuable items.
Substandard or unneeded services, such as unnecessary
home repairs.
Scams targeting seniors can range from the simply
ridiculous to the sublimely complicated. Experts say the best way
to keep thieves and con men out of grandma's pocketbook is to know
what's out there.
