09/24/2026
Elder financial scams are happening. I see the heartbreaking effects in my practice. The Florida Bar recently shared an important article about elder scams.
I have seen situations where a scammer persuades a lonely widow to send substantial amounts of money, or a caretaker gains a widower's trust and begins withdrawing large sums from his accounts.
It is a painful reminder that family involvement can make a real difference. Staying connected with an aging parent or loved one—checking in, asking questions, and noticing changes in their finances and relationships—can help you spot a problem before it becomes a crisis.
You don't have to assume the worst or take away someone's independence. But if something doesn't feel right, pay attention and ask for help. There may be legal options available, but the earlier a problem is identified, the more options there may be to protect your loved one and their assets.
Please take a few minutes to read the Florida Bar's article—and share it with your family. Sometimes simply starting the conversation can make a difference.
Three years after losing his wife, a lonely Jacksonville senior believed things were finally looking up. A friendly woman reached out on WhatsApp, claiming to know a friend of a friend. After a few weeks of talking, he wired over $450,000 to an account, masquerading as an investment opportunity.
https://www.floridabar.org/the-florida-bar-news/romance-scam-puts-new-elder-exploitation-law-to-the-test/