Montgomery County officials are raising awareness about a growing problem affecting older adults: financial exploitation and elder abuse.
At an event in Silver Spring marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, experts shared warnings about sophisticated scams targeting seniors and encouraged victims to seek help.
Community leaders, prosecutors and advocates gathered at the Holiday Park Senior Center in Silver Spring to educate residents about elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.
“We want you to know that you can call us, and when you call us, we do our best to keep everything confidential and connect you with the resources you need.” Julia K. McGlamary said, a representative from the office of Adult Protective Services in Montgomery County.
Officials say financial scams targeting older adults continue to rise. One of the fastest-growing schemes involves criminals posing as government officials or financial institutions and convincing victims to hand over their savings.
Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office warns about gold bar scams, assuring that scammers are constantly adapting their tactics as public awareness of certain fraud schemes grows.
“It could be gold bars, cash. It could be, ‘we want you to take your funds and then deposit them into this cryptocurrency ATM.’ And, of course, once it’s in a cryptocurrency account, it’s gone forever.” said Robert Hill from the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office.
County prosecutors say scammers are also using artificial intelligence and increasingly sophisticated tactics to gain trust and steal money from vulnerable adults.
Lisa speaking during the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day event
Lisa, who only wanted to be acknowledged by her first name, was one of those victims. Someone called her and pretended to be from the Social Security Administration, she stated. She then withdrew all her savings and delivered the money. During the elder abuse awareness event at the Schweinhaut Senior Center in Silver Spring on June 17, Lisa spoke openly to other seniors about what happened to her and how she’s overcoming trauma as a result.
“I was so scared and worried. I started getting depressed. Talking about it really helped me. I hope sharing my story can help other people recognize these scams before it happens to them,” said Lisa.
Looking back, she hopes others will question unexpected calls and verify information before taking action.
According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention 1 in 10 older adults living at home experience abuse, neglect or exploitation.
Education and awareness are among the most effective tools to prevent elder abuse, according to experts. Officials say family members, caregivers and friends play a critical role in recognizing warning signs and helping older adults stay connected to their communities.
“People need to know what to look for, so scammers can’t take advantage of seniors,” said Debbie Feinstein of the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office. “Family, friends and caregivers can help spot warning signs, and staying connected is important because social isolation is one of the biggest risk factors for elder abuse.”
County officials encourage anyone who suspects abuse, neglect or financial exploitation to report it and seek help.
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