Suspecting and Reporting Elder Abuse- Part 3

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Now that you know the signs of elder abuse and have learned ways to prevent it, let’s discuss reporting elder abuse. Because Tennessee is a mandatory reporting state, if you suspect elder abuse is happening, you are required to report it. 

“Any person having reasonable cause to suspect that an adult has suffered abuse, neglect or exploitation, shall report or cause reports to be made” by providing information to TN Adult Protective Services (APS). 

You can call 888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366) to investigate allegations or report online at reportadultabuse.dhs.tn.gov 

Please note: Although there is a “Duty to Report,” you are not required to prove that elder abuse or neglect happened, you just need to report it if you have reasonable cause to suspect it. Professionals will investigate further. 

*In the case of a medical emergency, always call 911 or the local police. 

If you or someone you know has been a victim of financial elder fraud, please call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833–FRAUD–11 or 833–372–8311.

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Coronavirus Fraud does exist. Scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) to steal money and personal information. To avoid a scam: 

  1. Hang up on robocalls: Scammers are using illegal robocalls to pitch everything from scam coronavirus treatments to work-at-home schemes. 

  2. Verify information: Contact trusted sources to confirm information is correct. 

  3. Know who you’re buying from: Online sellers may claim to have in-demand products, like cleaning, household, and health and medical supplies when, in fact, they don’t. 

  4. Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know: They could download viruses. 

  5. Do your homework: Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it. If you or someone you know believes they were a victim of a scam related to coronavirus, call National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF): 1-866-720-5721

Resources:

Received from the Family Safety Center and the Coordinated Response to Elder Abuse in Memphis, TN.

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