Helping seniors avoid scams

BISMARCK, N.D. – The West Central Vulnerable Adult Coalition is recognizing World Elder Abuse Awareness Day by hosting educational events for older adults in Bismarck and Mandan this week that focus on scams and financial exploitation.

On Friday, June 13, 2014, a representative from the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division will share information about recent scams targeting the elderly and how to avoid them and safeguard against financial exploitation. The program is from 12:45 to 1:45 p.m., at the Bismarck Senior Center, 315 N. 20th St., Bismarck.

At the coalition’s invitation, Mandan police department representatives will speak on Monday, June 16, about scams, as well as how to properly and safely dispose of prescription medications. The program is from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at Mandan Golden Age Services, 301 15th St. N.W., Mandan. Law enforcement officials will also accept unused or expired medications at that time.

“Our goal is to raise awareness about how older adults can protect themselves against financial exploitation,” said coalition co-chair Katie Schafer whose work at the N.D. Department of Human Services’ West Central Human Service Center brings her in contact with older adults affected by abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.

To view the World Elder Abuse Awareness Day proclamation, visit www.nd.gov/dhs/services/adultsaging/.

The West Central Vulnerable Adult Coalition was created in 2009 under the leadership of the N.D. Department of Human Services’ West Central Human Service Center with grant funding from the National Center on Elder Abuse. The coalition works closely with law enforcement and other agencies to address challenging issues facing many vulnerable individuals, has established a speakers bureau, and continues to identify options for vulnerable individuals who may be impacted by abuse or neglect.

Coalition partners include representatives from financial institutions, social service providers, legal services, law enforcement, medical and public health providers, veteran’s organizations, and direct service providers.

For more information about the coalition or to report an incidence of elder abuse or neglect, contact Vulnerable Adult Protective Services at 701-328-8868, toll free 888-328-2662 or ND Relay TTY
800-366-6888. For information about preventing identity theft, contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division at 701-328-3404 or toll free 800-472-2600.