TED Talks Daily The rise of predatory scams — and how to prevent them | Jane Walsh
Nov 11, 2021
In this insightful discussion, lawyer Jane Walsh, an expert in elder abuse and fraud, sheds light on the alarming rise of predatory scams targeting senior citizens. She reveals that one in ten older adults experiences abuse in their lifetime, emphasizing the emotional manipulation tactics used by scammers. Walsh advocates for proactive awareness and offers strategies to protect vulnerable individuals. She also navigates the legal hurdles faced by elderly victims, urging humane solutions to ensure their dignity and justice.
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Prevalence of Elder Abuse
- Elder abuse affects a significant portion of the older population, impacting one in ten adults over 60.
- This equates to 5 million people annually, often with family members as the perpetrators.
Walsh's Father's Experience
- Jane Walsh's father, experiencing mild cognitive impairment, was scammed by a roofing contractor.
- This incident, where her father lost a significant sum, highlighted the vulnerability of seniors to such crimes.
Underreporting of Elder Abuse
- Elder abuse cases are significantly underreported due to shame, embarrassment, and fear of admitting impairment.
- This underreporting leads to fewer charges, prosecutions, and convictions, making the problem even more pervasive.