Caregiver fraud occurs when individuals hired to provide senior citizens with care take advantage of them. According to a 2019 study of banks by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, one out of every nine incidents of financial fraud involved a nonfamily caregiver.
As reported by the AARP, each affected senior experienced an average loss of $57,800. Finding a reliable and certified caregiver may require hiring someone through a bonded agency. Through liability insurance, a home-care agency may offer your family protection and compensation in the event a caregiver engages in theft or exploitation.
You may discover details showing a senior experienced caregiver fraud
Unlike physical abuse, signs of financial fraud may not become clearly visible. If a senior changes bank accounts, however, a review of the new terms and conditions may reveal a possible sign of exploitation. New services that a senior has no use for may show that a caregiver influenced opening the account.
In some cases, a senior with a history of accurate record-keeping may suddenly “bounce” checks or leave bills unpaid. Frequent account withdrawals or large money transfers could also show patterns of fraud or exploitation.
Families may report a caregiver suspected of fraud
The CFPB’s website recommends compiling all the relevant details before filing an official report. Each incident’s date, time and location may help with an investigation. Include the caregiver and the names of anyone else involved. An effective report describes the nature of the suspected fraud. It may outline the caregiver’s actions and how they affected a senior’s health condition or decision-making skills.
Families may hold caregivers accountable when they engage in fraud or abuse. Filing a complaint with Delaware’s Adult Protective Services may launch an investigation; it could lead to civil or criminal charges. You may also file a legal action against a caregiver’s agency for relief.