Washington State

Office of the Attorney General

Attorney General

Bob Ferguson

In recognition of Adult Abuse Prevention Month throughout July, Attorney General Rob McKenna tendered his guidance on how to best protect vulnerable seniors from the worrisome trends of elderly abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.

As to why these crimes are on the rise, McKenna points out that, “Older people aren’t always aware of the latest schemes, some of which use new technology. Seniors often live alone, where loneliness leaves them at risk of falling prey to conniving relatives or 'new friends' with hidden motives. Crooks know that thanks to a lifetime of work and thrift, retirees may possess significant savings. And because they’re more likely than younger people to be incapacitated, seniors can’t always call for help.”

An important ally in the passing of a bill earlier this year to better train those who attend to the financial matters of seniors, AARP Washington has posted the full article on its Web site.

Report suspected abuse of a vulnerable adult by calling the statewide hotline number at 1-866-EndHarm (1-866-363-4276).

- Darius Schwarz, AGO Public Affairs Intern