Seniors and dependent adults from all walks of life face abuse and neglect every day. Anyone can be a victim of financial abuse or exploitation. However, there are steps you can take to help protect yourself from abuse and neglect.

Plan for your future! Consult family members, friends and professionals you trust.

• Have your income direct deposited into your bank accounts.
• Update your legal documents. Talk with an attorney to create or update your estate plan, living will, revocable trust and durable power of attorney documents.
• If managing your day-to-day finances become difficult, consider utilizing a professional daily money manager.

Be cautious! Dishonest people target seniors and will take advantage of them. Consider doing the following:

• Register your phone number with the National Do Not Call Registry.
• Reduce junk mail by removing your name from the mailing list of marketers.
• Shred documents that contain personal information and account numbers.
• Do not provide personal information such as your social security number, credit card numbers or bank account information over the phone unless you know who you are talking to or you placed the call.

Stay connected! Keep in touch with others on a regular basis. Build a network of family, friends, neighbors and groups that you can interact with every day.

Report abuse!

• In case of immediate danger, call 911.
• If you or someone you know experience abuse or neglect in a community setting, call Adult Protective Services (APS) in your area.
• If you or someone you know experience abuse or neglect in a long term care facility, contact the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program.

Protect yourself and take a stand against financial abuse and exploitation.