What is a common form of criminal behavior against the elderly?

Financial exploitation is a prevalent form of criminal behavior targeting the elderly for several reasons. Older adults often have accumulated savings, retirement funds, and valuable assets that can attract the attention of unscrupulous individuals. Due to physical or cognitive limitations, some elderly people may be less capable of managing their finances effectively or may become dependent on caregivers, making them vulnerable to exploitation.

Perpetrators may manipulate or deceive elderly individuals, often in scenarios involving trust. These can include scams where con artists misrepresent themselves, misuse power of attorney or guardianship, or engage in high-pressure sales tactics targeted at seniors. As a result, financial exploitation can have devastating effects on the emotional and financial well-being of elderly victims.

While physical assault, drug-related crimes, and identity theft can also impact the elderly, financial exploitation stands out due to its direct link to the financial and emotional stability of older adults, making it a particularly harsh and impactful form of crime against this vulnerable group.