World Elder Abuse Awareness Day takes place on 15 June 2026. It is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the different forms of abuse that can affect older people, including physical, emotional, psychological and financial abuse. The day is recognised internationally and is intended to encourage greater understanding of the abuse and neglect of older people.
One of the most common and often hidden forms of elder abuse is financial abuse. This can happen gradually and may not always be obvious at first. It can include someone pressuring an older person to give them money, using their bank card without permission, persuading them to change their will, taking control of their pension or benefits, or making decisions about their property or savings for personal gain.
Financial abuse can happen within families, between friends, or by people in a position of trust. It can be particularly difficult to identify because the person being abused may feel embarrassed, frightened, dependent on the person causing harm, or reluctant to speak out. In some cases, they may not fully understand that what is happening is abusive.
There are warning signs that family members and friends can look out for. These may include unusual withdrawals from bank accounts, unpaid bills, sudden changes in financial arrangements, missing possessions, unexplained changes to legal documents, or an older person appearing anxious when money is discussed. Another warning sign may be someone becoming increasingly isolated from friends, relatives or professionals who previously supported them.
One practical step people can take to protect themselves and their families is to put a Power of Attorney in place while they still have capacity to do so.
In Scotland, a Power of Attorney allows you to appoint one or more trusted people to make decisions on your behalf if you are no longer able to do so yourself. A Continuing Power of Attorney deals with money, property and financial affairs. A Welfare Power of Attorney deals with personal welfare matters, such as care, medical treatment and living arrangements. Welfare powers can only be used once the person has lost capacity.
A Power of Attorney is not just for older people. It is sensible planning for anyone who wants to make sure that, if illness, accident or incapacity occurs, decisions are made by someone they have chosen and trust.
Importantly, a well-drafted Power of Attorney can reduce the risk of confusion, family disagreement and financial vulnerability. It can set out clearly who should act, what powers they should have, and how decisions should be made. It can also avoid the delay and expense of a guardianship application if capacity is lost before arrangements are put in place.
Choosing an attorney is a significant decision. The person appointed should be trustworthy, reliable and willing to act in your best interests. It is also possible to appoint more than one attorney and to include safeguards, depending on your circumstances.
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a reminder that protecting older people is not only about responding when something has gone wrong. It is also about planning ahead, having difficult conversations early, and putting appropriate legal protections in place.
If you would like advice about preparing a Power of Attorney, or if you are concerned about financial abuse involving an older relative, our team can provide clear and sensitive guidance.
DISCLAIMER
The content of this page is for information only. It is not intended to be construed as legal advice and should not be treated as a substitute for specific advice. Gibson Kerr Ltd accepts no responsibility for the content of any third party website to which this webpage refers. Gibson Kerr Ltd is regulated by the Law Society of Scotland.