Financial abuse of elderly persons is a widespread problem gaining global recognition. Elder abuse is highly under-reported, but best estimates suggest that financial abuse impacts 1.2% of adults aged 65+ in the UK and 85% of victims of doorstep crimes are 65 and over (Age UK, 2015; Davidson et al., 2015). Financial loss is always harmful to victims, but, for elderly people on fixed incomes and lacking earning power, it is particularly impactful. It is estimated that in the UK £78 million is lost annually (Owen, 2015).
This collaboration aims to understand and improve elderly persons’ responses to financial abuse. It also seeks to enable the adoption of prevention strategies by key organisations (e.g., charities, banks).
Following our consultation event being held at Senate House (London) in July 2018, we have produced a set of infographics to raise awareness of financial abuse of older people for older adults themselves, and to support care sector key workers and industry specialists in recognising financial abuse of older people.
You can find the references for the information within the infographics here.