Planning for Cognitive Impairment and Preventing Elder Abuse

As we age, it is not uncommon to experience some level of cognitive decline. Cognitive decline can range from mild impairment to more severe conditions such as dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in nine adults is experiencing subjective cognitive decline (SCD). SCD is self-reported confusion or memory problems that have become more frequent or have worsened during the previous 12 months.

Each experience with cognitive decline is unique. A person may have trouble with some aspects of their life but still be able to handle others adequately. Recognizing the signs of cognitive decline is key for early intervention and support. Symptoms may include memory loss, difficulty concentrating, confusion, and impaired judgment.

Regardless of one’s age, the decline of mental faculties can leave a person vulnerable to abuse. In some cases, the abuser is someone known to the abused. Through certain lifestyle choices and proactive measures, older people can help mitigate the effects of cognitive decline and protect themselves from potential abuse.

Signs of Cognitive Decline

Signs that someone is experiencing cognitive decline can be subtle. When spending time with aging loved ones, look for any changes in behavior or speech, such as the following:

• Memory Loss: Memory loss can cause a person to forget recent events, how to get to places they have frequented many times before, and where they have put things.
• Confusion: A person experiences confusion when they struggle with familiar tasks or can’t understand the concept of time or place.
• Poor Judgment: Cognitive decline can lead to poor judgment, which may play out in the form of making decisions that are out of character, reckless, or harmful.
• Language Problems: Language problems can become apparent when a person struggles to find the right words or has trouble following conversations.
• Mood Changes: Sudden mood swings or behavioral changes can be a sign of cognitive decline.

Strategies to Mitigate Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline may be inevitable for some older people, but there are ways to mitigate the risk factors.

• Mental Stimulation: Engage in activities that challenge the brain, such as puzzles, reading, and learning new skills.
• Physical Exercise: Regular physical activity improves blood flow to the brain and supports overall health.
• Healthy Diet: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins can support brain health.
• Social Interaction: Maintaining social connections and participating in group activities can keep the mind active.
• Regular Check-Ups: Routine medical check-ups can help identify and address health issues that may affect cognitive function.

Financial Elder Abuse

Financial elder abuse is a serious and growing concern, particularly for individuals experiencing cognitive decline. It involves the illegal or improper use of an elderly person’s funds, property, or assets. Perpetrators can be strangers, caregivers, or even family members. The effect of financial elder abuse can be devastating, leading to significant financial loss and emotional distress.

Recognizing Financial Elder Abuse

Detecting financial abuse can be tricky and often requires a delicate touch. The victim may feel ashamed knowing that someone has taken advantage of them. Keep the following in mind when looking for the possibility of financial abuse.

• Unusual Financial Activity: Investigate sudden, unusual withdrawals or transfers of large sums of money, especially if the person cannot explain the withdrawal.
• Unpaid Bills: Unpaid bills can be a sign of financial abuse, especially if the individual has enough money to pay the bills.
• Changes in Legal Documents: Unexpected changes to legal documents, such as wills, powers of attorney, or deeds can be a sign that something is wrong.
• Isolation: Abusers often try to isolate their victims from family and friends, so check on your loved ones regularly.

Preventing Financial Elder Abuse

Preventing all types of elder abuse requires consistent monitoring. Here are some ways to help prevent financial elder abuse.

• Open Communication: Encourage open and honest communication about finances with trusted family members.
• Education: Educate elderly loved ones about common scams and how to avoid them.
• Monitor Accounts: Regularly monitor bank and credit card accounts for unusual activity.
• Legal Protections: Establish legal safeguards such as durable powers of attorney, trusts, and guardianships.
• Professional Help: Hire a financial advisor and an elder law attorney to manage and protect the older person’s assets.

Steps for Families to Take

You can help protect your elderly loved ones from abuse in several ways.

• Stay Informed: Keep up to date with the latest information on cognitive decline and financial elder abuse.
• Be Proactive: Take steps to create a secure financial plan and legal protections for elderly family members.
• Seek Support: Use community resources, support groups, and professional services to assist in caregiving and financial management.
• Report Abuse: If you suspect financial elder abuse, report it to local authorities, your state’s Adult Protective Services, or a trusted professional immediately.

Learn More About Cognitive Decline and Preventing Elder Abuse

Cognitive decline is a natural part of aging, but it does not have to lead to financial vulnerability. By staying informed, taking proactive measures, and fostering open communication, families can protect their elderly loved ones from financial elder abuse. Ensuring the safety and well-being of seniors requires vigilance, compassion, and a commitment to their overall health and security over the long term.

Contact an experienced elder law attorney near you today to learn how you can safeguard yourself and your loved ones from elder abuse. Your attorney can discuss your specific situation and your options with you. The National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) is also a good resource.

For additional reading on cognitive decline and elder abuse, check out the following articles:

• When Should You Start Helping With Your Parents’ Finances?
• 10 Ways the Elderly Can Avoid Financial Abuse
• Aging Care: 6 Tips for Caring for Elderly Parents
• Which States Have the Best Protections Against Elder Abuse?