Financial Abuse


Senior retrieves bill from wallet.

 

Financial abuse occurs when an individual in a position of power extracts funds or other resources to a degree where it negatively impacts the abused person’s financial stability.  It can also occur when an older adult is coerced by a loved one to provide funds by exerting fear or shame.

Financial abuse is the most common form of adult abuse in seniors, older adults, and vulnerable adults.

Financial abuse often takes place simultaneously with other forms of abuse, like psychological abuse, and is frequently committed by someone the abused person knows, like a friend, family member, or caregiver.  Having a network of support is key both to preventing and identifying financial abuse.

Many older adults are also vulnerable to scams and fraud.  The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) collects information on fraud and identity theft, while assisting the public in recognizing fraud, reporting fraud, and protecting themselves against fraud.  The CAFC is committed to disrupting crime, strengthening partnerships between private and public sectors, and maintaining Canada’s economy.

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