I have filed an APS report for fiduciary abuse. My father,89, is sole care taker for my step-mom 84 with Alzheimers. All her assets, paid off home, inheritance from her mother, savings, annuity and most her social security. Are all under the control of her daughter. my father provides all care. they will not pay for her dental work even though detrimental to her health, any in home help, time for him to recharge, help with hygeine for her. he shops, washes, bathes, takes her to all appts, cooks, cleans etc. he never leaves her alone. I assert they have obligation and responsibility for her advancing needs whether $ control was gained legally (POA), misuse of trust, or undue influence. am I right? the daughter provides no help and I question if she has embezzled some of the money. my father stands to gain 0 financially. They continue to have her sign legal documents she does not know what she signs. Help Please. I intend on filing a police report tomorrow.
I would start with an elderlaw attorney or a geriatric care manager who will know how to work the system. Yes, it will cost you some out-of-pocket money but you'll probably be able to get it back once things are resolved. I would also offer to attend a medical visit with your father (last minute so that daughter is unaware) and get documentation of her diagnosis. Once you have that, you can prove that anything she signs is null and void.
If daughter has guardianship or conservatorship, depending upon what state step-mom is in, she may be required to file yearly financial statements.
Stepmom is also entitled to her own lawyer and visits from a social worker will also allow your Dad's condition to be monitored. A geriatric case manager is probably the least expensive way to get all this put into place.
My only concern is that daughter will attempt to get in the way so you may need to be sneaky. 50% of caregivers die BEFORE the person they are caring for so for your father's sake, you are right to get involved.
Best wishes,
Shelley Webb, RN
Geriatric Care Manager
Please please be sneaky right now until your ducks are in order.