What might indicate that an older adult is being financially exploited?

The indication that an older adult may be financially exploited often lies in the discrepancy between their life circumstances and the size of their estate. When there is a significant inconsistency, such as an individual living well below their means but possessing substantial assets or an estate, it raises a red flag for potential financial exploitation. For example, if an older adult resides in a modest dwelling with limited financial resources but has a much larger estate, it could suggest that someone else is mismanaging or illegally accessing their funds.

In contrast, an increase in monthly savings, maintenance of a budget, or having retirement investments do not inherently signal exploitation. These behaviors can often be attributed to prudent financial management or financial planning, indicating that the person may be in a secure and stable financial situation. Hence, noticing a mismatch between one's circumstances and estate size serves as a more tangible warning sign of possible financial exploitation.