Elder financial abuse is any instance in which someone deprives an older person of his or her money or property without their permission, and sometimes without their knowledge. It has become a crippling problem for our aging loved ones. As many as 20% of our elderly have been victimized to the tune of billions of dollars lost. Yes, I know what you’re thinking…the predators are limited to a pool of anonymous scammers who stalk with emails, phone calls, and even doorbells. Sadly, though, most of the scammers are the people closest us. Caregivers, friends, and family. Which is why it’s critically important that those of us with elderly family members or elderly clients understand the warning signs of financial abuse and know what to do about it.