ELDER FINANCIAL ABUSE HOW TO RECOGNIZE AND PREVENT IT
When tending to the safety and care of elderly loved ones, it’s not uncommon to hire extra help or move them into an assisted living facility. While these services are helpful, they can sometimes open doors to harmful situations. The elderly and otherwise incapacitated are more susceptible to being taken advantage of, especially from a financial standpoint. Luckily, there are steps you can take to keep this from happening. First, choose a trustworthy person to act as an agent in all estate- planning matters, including power of attorney. They should have access to all financial accounts, so they can keep an eye out for any unusual activity. If you hire someone to help or assist around the house, make sure their access to sensitive information is limited. Don’t give them passwords for accounts or allow them to open mail. Unusual financial activity to watch for includes unexplained withdrawals or transactions, sudden unpaid bills, insufficient funds,
or closing of accounts. Be wary of new “friends” who accompany the older person to the bank or a new caretaker who starts conducting financial transactions on behalf of the person without permission. Suspicious signatures on checks or other documents, altered wills and trusts, or loss of property are also signs. It’s a lot to pay attention to, but being aware will help you catch any nefarious activity early. Remind elderly family members to never share personal or financial information over the phone or internet unless it’s with a trusted source. Shredding receipts and statements before throwing them away prevents information theft, and keeping items like checkbooks under lock and key prevents physical theft. Information is easy to steal if it’s not properly protected. If you suspect elder financial or estate abuse is occurring or if you want to put plans in place to prevent it, give our office a call at 718-698-2200 or visit RealEstatePlanningLaw.com so we can give you peace of mind.
THE BEST LEFTOVER TURKEY SANDWICH MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
take a break
• 2 slices sourdough bread • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard • 2 slices Swiss cheese • 1/3 cup shredded leftover turkey • 3 tbsp leftover cranberry sauce Thanksgiving may be held on Thursday, but the food often lasts at least through the weekend. To make the best use of the excess, grill up some killer turkey sandwiches. INGREDIENTS
• 1/3 cup leftover dressing or stuffing • 2 tbsp leftover gravy • 1 tbsp butter, room temperature Note: Don’t worry if you don’t have all the leftovers required.
DIRECTIONS
1. Coat inside of each bread slice with mustard and a slice of cheese. Place turkey and cranberry sauce on one slice and dressing and gravy on the other. 2. Combine sandwich and spread butter on both sides. 3. In a panini maker or large skillet, grill until crispy and golden brown. 4. Slice and serve.
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