Financial Abuse and Exploitation in Pennsylvania: The Importance of Early Response and Clearer Lines for Recovery

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Protection of older adults from exploitation requires a careful balance. On the one hand is the concern for individual autonomy; on the other hand, there is increasing recognition of the potential for vulnerability to influence, manipulation or outright fraud. Pennsylvania is considering amendment of its Older Adult Protective Services Act. Professor Pearson's written testimony for hearings in December 2013 addresses measures to encourage early reporting of suspicions of abuse by banks and other financial instittutions. Further, to assist in early recovery, Professor Pearson recommends adoption of a private right of action under the Act to provide statutory grounds for recovery of money or other property, or appropriate injunctive relief.