How can we keep my sister from taking advantage of our mother financially?

1 answer | Last updated: Sep 29, 2011

Cherie11 asked...

My mom was diagnosed with lung cancwer 1 yr ago and has went through radio and chemo.Now in the past few months,she has given up her appartment and has moved in with my oldest sister.My question is well: what can my other 4 sisters and I do to help prevent my older sister of taking advantage of my mom.I will give you and example of what has been going on in the past month.My older sister moved down here from Toronto and since then ,she has my mom's visa card up to $13000 plus,and more.My mom pays her $200 for food a month and $200 on her own visa,which my sister is not paying at all on.Now last week I peeked in my mom's bankbook when she was at my place for supper,and her account went from,$2900 to $200 in less than 1 month.She only makes $1500 a month with her pension and spousal support.I am so scared that after all mom's money is gone that my sister withh kick her out.Is there anything that we could do.Please help.

Barbara Steinberg

Caring.com Expert

Barbara Steinberg is the CEO and founder of BLS Eldercare Financial Solutions, which specializes in helping families pay for long-term care for their...

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Barbara Steinberg said...

Unfortunately, this is a situation that we see too much of. There are two resources that we use when we encounter a situation like this. One is Adult Protective Services, which can be found in your county. They can intervene when an elderly person is being abused, physically or financially. The other is a state Ombudsman for Seniors. They focus on institutional care, but may be available to help with your mother’s situation. If these programs do not exist where your mother is living, try contacting the county Board of Social Services. They can provide guidance as to what services are available.

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