My dad moved to Florida 6 months ago. His health is declining and he doesn't take care of himself (hasn't showered in weeks) he gives his checkbook out to people to sign checks for him and his caregiver (who my aunt hired off of Craigslist) holds his credit card. Family is in Pennsylvania and he has no one. He won't listen to me and I am afraid people are taking advantage of him financially. What do I do? Who can I talk to about this?
We went through this with my dad in Texas several years ago, and the authorities were useless, especially the social services representative. She was sweet-talked by the jerk who was ripping off my dad and believed him when he said he was going to pay all the money back. Never happened.
And we never know if the people involved in "caring" for him have made a practice of this. The police can access national databases to determine if these people have aliases and/or have engaged in similar practices in other states. I would think this would be especially appropriate for the person hired through Craigslist.
And do call APS, today. Be sure to alert them that your father probably will resist their involvement.
Perhaps others know (I don't) if you can get information on his medical condition, especially whether he's taking any meds for whatever illnesses he may have. His approach toward blocking family yet letting strangers in makes me wonder if there's some confusion or dementia involved. Is this a new development?
Good luck; this must be very frustrating and upsetting.
Alternatively, someone in the family needs to make the trip down there, assess the situation in person and get some services set up. Or bring dad back to PA.