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Abstract: 

The problem of elder financial abuse is severe, and if anything growing worse. But at least there are some gleams of hope in the situation, as some of the existing organizations that protect elders add some new research and enforcement tools, and as some new groups are mobilized to defend the financially vulnerable. This article profiles some of the most important and effective new efforts, from across the U.S., to protect the elderly from financial exploitation, including Northeastern University researchers’ use of touch-screen computers to assist abuse victims in discussing sensitive matters and a program to educate employees, such as doormen and superintendents, to recognize signs of abuse among older residents in NYC apartment building, which are increasingly becoming “NORCs” (naturally occurring retirement communities). Other efforts include training physicians to identify signs of exploitation in preventive screenings and gerontological care visits; initiatives by the Office of Victims of Crime (US Department of Justice); and IRS efforts to crack down on phishing and other financial scams.

Keywords: Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Center for Elder Abuse Prevention; Investor Protection Trust; American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists

Affiliations:  1: Co-Editor.