Prepare For A Spike In Elder Abuse Caused By Pandemic

As the pandemic quarantine continues, you can see the tension mounting as people are rushing to opened beaches in Jacksonville, Florida and our own governor is giving the green light to an unusual assortment of businesses. As the tension continues to mount with people staying at home, with limited to no income, and the bills piling up, I expect to see, like we did in 2008 – 2009, an increase in elder abuse and financial exploitation of elderly family members.

As circumstances get worse, this is what I see happening. Family members will move in together, living in tight quarters with differing adult personalities. Because liquor stores are considered ‘essential businesses’, alcohol consumption will continue or increase, and Social Security and pension payments to seniors will be used by the newly-moved-in out-of-work household members. This can lead to neglect and malnourishment of the senior population as priorities differ about whether to buy expensive medication or groceries for an expanding family.

Family members that do not move in with elder loved ones may begin to accuse the ones who do with elder abuse and financial exploitation, even if it is not occurring. This causes family disputes can and often does lead to expensive court battles.

I acknowledge that the picture I am painting is grim and not pleasant to think about. But, just like the effects of what the COVID19 virus does to our lungs, it is necessary to know so we can be prepared and provide the right treatments or course of action if and when it does occur in your family. And, yes, as a law firm specializing in elder care, we can provide “legal” treatments.

Looking to find an experienced estate lawyer in the Georgia area who is skilled in asset protection and estate plan preparation? Shannon Pawley is an attorney in Georgia with expertise in estate planning and asset protection. Shannon can provide assistance with creating an estate plan to include making a will and how to establish a trust properly. If you have questions about asset protection or questions about making an estate plan, reach out to Shannon and she will be glad to help answer all the estate planning questions you might have!