Protecting Elders from Exploitation are some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Unfortunately, Protecting Elders from Exploitation by a caregiver is all too common. As such, it is essential to take precautionary steps to protect elderly adults from exploitation. Thankfully, there are multiple ways that lawyers, social services professionals, and geriatric care managers suggest we can reduce the risk of elder exploitation by a caregiver.

Screen Caregivers Thoroughly: Before hiring a caregiver, it’s important to thoroughly check their references and background. Ask questions about previous work experience and make sure they understand the duties they will be responsible for in the home. It is also important to ask questions related to their attitude toward working with elderly people in order to make sure they have a compassionate approach toward this type of caregiving.

Get It In Writing: Make sure you have a written agreement between you and any caregiver that outlines expectations and responsibilities as well as any disciplinary measures should those expectations not be met. This way, both parties are aware of what is expected of them in the relationship, and this reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings or exploitation occurring down the road.

Bonded And Insured: Whether you hire a caregiver independently or through an agency, make sure the worker is bonded to cover a loss due to exploitation. If you engage an agency, it should have professional liability insurance.
In addition, if your state requires special licensing for certain types of caregivers (like nursing aides or home health aides) make sure those licensures are up-to-date before allowing them into your home.

It’s natural to want to trust caregivers who come into our homes or those of our loved ones but taking extra precautions can help ensure Protecting Elders from Exploitation that elders are safe from harm at all times. Screening potential caregivers thoroughly, having written agreements in place outlining expectations between both parties, and is bonded and insured when necessary—all these measures can provide peace of mind knowing that elders are being treated with respect and dignity while under someone else’s care. To elderly adults everywhere—you deserve nothing less!