Washington adults succumb to financial exploitation

OLYMPIA—Financial exploitation ranks as the number two type of abuse of vulnerable adults living at home in Washington according to figures compiled by the Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS).

In 2002, DSHS Adult Protective Services' (APS) investigations confirmed 428 cases of financial exploitation. Only the category of self-neglect ranked higher with 616 substantiated cases.

During the July observance of Adult Abuse Prevention Month, DSHS is focusing on the problems of financial exploitation and other forms of abuse through the new Protect Our Vulnerable Adults Web site at www.aasa.dshs.wa.gov/topics/abuse/

Financial exploitation may involve a friend or relative slowly draining the vulnerable adult's bank accounts and life savings over a period of years. It may also involve a stranger scamming a vulnerable adult to buy unneeded services to resurface a driveway or replace a roof.

The DSHS Web site offers helpful tips that vulnerable adults can use to protect themselves from financial exploitation, including:

• Do not share your social security number, birth date or credit card numbers with strangers or telephone solicitors.
• Do not sign any document until someone you trust or your attorney reads it.
• Always get two or more bids from reputable contractors for home repairs.
• Be wary of telephone or mail solicitations for charities. Donate to charities you know.
• Anyone who suspects a vulnerable adult is being abused is urged to call DSHS toll-free at 1-866-ENDHARM (1-866-363-4276). APS will determine if an investigation is warranted.

If someone suspects a vulnerable adult is facing imminent harm because of criminal activity, call local law enforcement immediately by dialing 911.

A coalition of organizations is working during July to increase awareness of the issue of protecting vulnerable adults. DSHS partners in the coalition include the Arc of Washington State, AARP, Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Developmental Disabilities Council, Senior Citizens Lobby, State Council on Aging,

Washington Association of Area Agencies on Aging and Office of Attorney General of Washington.

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services release, July 28

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