Fighting Financial Fraud and Abuse

Elder Abuse Is a Serious Problem. Hundreds of thousands of older persons are abused, neglected and exploited by family members and others. Many victims are people who are older, frail, and vulnerable and cannot help themselves and must depend on others to meet their most basic needs. Legislatures in all 50 states have passed some form of elder abuse prevention laws.

Each year an estimated 2.1 million older Americans are victims of elder abuse and neglect by someone they depend on for care or protection. Conservative estimates claim that only one in 14 cases of elder abuse and neglect are reported to the proper authorities.

Fraud Fighter volunteers support this innovative program that represents a partnership with senior volunteers, law enforcement, AARP and WISE & Healthy Aging.

Each week, volunteers gather at the WISE Senior Fraud Prevention Call Center to contact people across the country to present a message about prevention, to educate people about the signs of illegal telemarketing fraud, and prevent financial abuse of seniors. For more information, call (310) 394-9871, ext. 441 or email fightfraud@wiseandhealthyaging.org

Seniors Against Investment Fraud (SAIF) is sponsored and funded by the California Department of Corporations and educates seniors throughout California in the prevention of investment fraud. WISE & Healthy Aging trains volunteers who communicate these messages to other seniors through local seminars. Volunteers educate the public on core concepts that include:

  • Consider and compare investment opportunities.
  • Consult with an outside party before making and investment.
  • Call a toll free number (1-866-275-2677) at the California Department of Corporations to make sure that you are dealing with a licensed dealer or broker and that the offer is legitimate.

For more information, please call 310-394-9871, ext 441 or email

fightfraud@wiseandhealthyaging.org

If you are interested in volunteer opportunities with these or other WISE & Healthy Aging programs, please call (310) 394-9871, Ext. 450 or email volunteer@wiseandhealthyaging.org

For a complete list of volunteer opportunities at WISE & Healthy Aging, please click here.