Consumer Beware- Hiring Home Helpers
According to a recent MetLife Mature Market Institute report, elders lose at least $2.6 billion a year to financial abuse. Many are taken advantage of by “friends”, neighbors, acquaintances and sometimes family members. “Rip-offs” can happen to people of all ages, but are more predominate in the senior age group. As we age we grow more vulnerable, and decision making skills are sometimes compromised. Cowlitz and Clark County have formed the Vulnerable Adult task Force so law enforcement, county officials, medical and social services can help identify financial, emotional or physical abuse.
It is important to know the guidelines required for people who work with the elderly in a caregiving role. With the recession going into its third year, I have noticed some people hiring unemployed family members, or acquaintances who have no training. “Under the table” workers can either intentionally or innocently make mistakes in judgment that can cause harm to a senior or disabled person of any age.
