If you are concerned about the possible elder financial abuse of a friend or loved one, consider the following.

• Suggest that you be added to financial accounts, so that you can monitor your loved one's transactions for fraud. If you notice any suspicious transactions, contact the financial institutions immediately in order to minimize any potential liability.
  
• Suggest use of electronic statements for all accounts. Electronic statements, rather than paper, will eliminate the possibility of mail box theft, one of the common access means used by Identity Theft thieves. 
  
• Suggest the use of Pay on Death Accounts, Powers of Attorney, Trust Accounts, or other instruments.
  
• If you are concerned about the diminished capacity of a friend or loved one, be wary of new friends, excessive offers for sweepstakes, and mail, telephone and online scams.