FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kaitlin Barker
(702) 486-6982
sospio@sos.nv.gov  

(Carson City, NV; June 15, 2016) — In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day today, Nevada Secretary of State Barbara Cegavske spotlights the importance of safeguarding Nevada’s senior population by keeping a watchful eye for signs of elder financial exploitation and promptly reporting possible abuse to appropriate officials.

“Financial abuse is considered to be the most common form of abuse to elders,” said Secretary Cegavske. “This is due in part to the amount of wealth seniors have accumulated throughout their careers and their increasing isolation. The best way to fight financial exploitation of elders is to be mindful and watch for the warning signs.”

The Nevada Secretary of State Securities Division suggests watching for the following warning signs of suspicious behavior that may indicate potential elder financial exploitation:

• Has an elder moved away from existing relationships and toward new associations with other “friends” or strangers?

• Has a new person entered the elder’s life and shown an excessive interest in the elder’s finances or accounts?

• Are you unable to speak directly with the elder despite repeated attempts at contact?

• Does the elder display unexplained excitement over a financial windfall or prize check and reluctance to discuss details?

In an effort to help spread the word about World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Nevada Secretary of State’s Office has partnered with the National Adult Protective Services Association (NAPSA) to support their World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2nd Global Summit on June 16th.

In addition, the Nevada Securities Division, along with the Aging and Disability Services Division, will participate in Senior$afe Training Week, October 2-8, 2016, and provide training to broker-dealers and investment advisers that will include identification of the red flags of suspected elder financial exploitation and how to report suspected exploitation.

Nevadans who see the above warning signs are encouraged to contact the Nevada Secretary of State Securities Division at (702) 486-2440 or the Aging and Disability Services Division at 1-(888) 729-0571 or (702) 486-6930.

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