Beware of Elder/Dependent Abuse

Credit unions are in a unique position to detect and prevent financial exploitation and fraud. Alta Vista’s primary role is the protection of its members’ assets and the prevention of financial losses. As a financial institution, we are held with legal obligation to report these behaviors when we sense our member has involvement. Unfortunately, we see this happen all too frequently, here are ways to identify what elder abuse can look like and remind us all of actions we can take to prevent or support our elderly/dependent members should this occur.

What is elder or dependent adult abuse?

Abuse of an elder or dependent adult means:

• Physical Abuse
• Neglect
• Financial Abuse
• Abandonment
• Isolation
• Abduction, or
• Other Treatment resulting in physical harm or mental suffering.
• The lack of a care provider of good or services necessary to avoid physical harm or mental suffering.

Who is an elder and dependent adult?

An elder is any person residing in the State of Ca who is 60 year of age, or over.

A dependent adult is anyone residing in the state, between the ages of 18 and 59 years, who:

• Has physical or mental limitation that restrict his or her ability to carry out normal activities or to protect his or her rights including, but not limited to, persons who physical or developmental disabilities or whose physical or mental abilities have diminished because or age.

Or

• Between the ages of 18 and 64 who is admitted as an inpatient to a 24-hour health facility, as defined by the law.

Remember at Alta Vista we want to:

Identify- those at risk.

Protect- our member from fraud and take necessary action.

Respond- to all concerns and suspicions regarding financial abuse.

Report- all suspected instances of financial abuse.

What to do:

• Connect with your management team and provide the story as what type of abuse is occurring.
• Complete the SOC 342 form ( found on CU guide)
• Call to file report 909-891-3900 or Fax 909-933-6301 to submit report
• If necessary request a wellness check on the member
• Place notes on membership
• Connect with Audit & Compliance manager and provide copy of report.

Contact numbers for APS

San Bernardino: 909.891.3900

Rancho Cucamonga: 909.948.6200

Barstow: 760.256.5544

Victorville: 760.995.8702

Joshua Tree: 760.228.5390

Needles: 760.326.9328