[February 11, 2015]      

Craig Horsch, CEO, EVP & cashier of The Atlanta National Bank, was the main speaker at the Atlanta Rotary Club meeting Tuesday afternoon at the Country Aire Restaurant. The topic Craig shared with the club was the rise of financial elder abuse.

Pictures by Karen Hargis

Horsch shared that one in four seniors will be a victim of a financial crime. These crimes may include unauthorized or illegal use of funds, property or resources by a family member, friend or stranger that results in loss of money or property.

 

Craig showed a film that the bank uses to educate employees to possible abuse. Whether it is contractors making illegitimate repairs, telemarketers offering ‘too good to be true’ schemes or any other deceptions, cons or fraud, seniors need to be aware of the increasing number of predators stalking them today.
 

 

There are many reasons the elderly are targets. First and foremost, people over the age of 50 control over 70 percent the nation's wealth. In addition, seniors don't realize they have something to lose. Also, many believe people will do the right thing or do what they promise.

 

 

As a community, it is our responsibility to watch out for ourselves and for our neighbors. Elder abuse is a clear danger and comes in a variety of forms. From family members taking unfair advantage to con men posing as legitimate businesses, these situations are a form of abuse.