According to US Department of Justice, “Financial Exploitation means the illegal, unauthorized, or fraudulent use, or deprivation of use of the property of a vulnerable adult with the intention of benefiting someone other than the vulnerable adult.” Financial exploitation is a huge risk factor for clients in the home care setting, who rely on others to meet basic human needs.
How easy would it be for your loved one to be exploited? Easier than you think. If your loved one has memory loss or any sort of dementia-related diagnosis, it could be happening without you even knowing. Some clients are quick to hand the caregiver that they know and trust their credit card, checkbook, cash, and bank information without a second thought. Even a caregiver with a clear background check, no history of theft, and no indications that they are not to be trusted could be tempted with unfiltered access to a wealthy client’s bank account.
How do you avoid the risk? If your loved one is relying on the caregiver to get them groceries or medications, what other options are there? While I was at the Home Care Association of America Conference in Chicago, IL last month, I was introduced to a fabulous company that has figured out the safest and most effective way to protect both client and caregiver in this very situation.
TrueLink, https://www.truelinkfinancial.com/ , allows care agencies like True North Home Care to order a monitored prepaid card for clients, that the family or client can load money onto. The card can be used anywhere credit cards are accepted. The family or client can set restrictions on amounts of purchases, locations of purchases (i.e.. block casinos, cash withdrawals, etc.), and monitor purchases to help eliminate the temptation to commit fraud, but also to protect caregivers and agencies from false accusations.
Starting this month, all new clients of True North Home Care who need shopping assistance will be provided with a True Link card. Families, clients, caregivers, and agency owners like myself will sleep better at night knowing that the client’s money is being used ethically, honestly, and efficiently, exactly as they intended it.
If you have questions about financial exploitation, or are interested in more information about True Link, send me an email at kayla@truenorthhomecare.com
