HARRISBURG, PA — With World Elder Abuse Awareness Day approaching on June 15, AARP Pennsylvania is urging the public to recognize and act against elder financial exploitation, a pervasive but often overlooked form of abuse affecting older adults.
“Financial exploitation is a silent threat that can devastate lives,” said Mary Bach, AARP Pennsylvania Volunteer and Chair of the Consumer Issues Task Force. “It’s not just about stolen money—it’s about stolen trust, dignity, and peace of mind. We all have a role to play in protecting those we care about.”
Elder financial exploitation involves the misuse or theft of an older adult’s assets, often by someone they trust, such as a family member, caregiver, or friend. Scammers preying on older individuals also contribute to financial loss, though they operate outside relationships of trust. Common tactics include coercing victims into signing financial documents, unauthorized use of power of attorney, and outright theft.
The warning signs can be subtle but must not be ignored. AARP Pennsylvania identifies key red flags, such as sudden changes in banking habits, missing valuables, unexplained modifications to wills or financial documents, and a caregiver or relative restricting access to financial information. Reports from older adults themselves about exploitation should also be taken seriously.
“Too often, financial exploitation is discovered only after significant damage has been done,” Bach noted. “That’s why education and early detection are so critical. We want Pennsylvanians to know what to look for and where to turn for help.”
AARP Pennsylvania advises individuals to investigate large withdrawals, unpaid bills, or questionable credit card charges. Supervising financial transactions and intervening quickly if suspicious activity arises can make a crucial difference in protecting older adults from harm.
Raising awareness and fostering vigilance ahead of June 15 serves as a reminder that safeguarding older individuals’ financial independence is a shared responsibility.
If you or a loved one suspects financial exploitation, take action now. Contact your local law enforcement and get support from AARP by calling 1-877-908-3360. For more resources and guidance, visit the AARP Pennsylvania Fraud Resource Page at aarp.org/pafraud. Don’t wait—protect yourself and those you care about today!
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