My stepmother, 82, has dementia. Her daughter (mystepsister) has power of attorney. POA has numerous unpaid bills for which she is responsible, in the tens of thousands of dollars. I live in a different state than they. I suspect that my stepmother is being financially exploited by her daughter and see a need to step in, but do not know what to do or how to proceed. I have limited income and cannot afford expensive legal assistance. What else can I do to ensure that my stepmother is not financially exploited?
The issue could blow up in your face, however, doing something about it would be better than just worrying. You should contact the proper authorities in your country (Sorry, I am not familiar with the laws of your state, as I live in Singapore) and have this reported, however, before doing this, perhaps you should try talking to her about it and confirm things for yourself, before you take any legal actions.
God bless.
In the event there is NO POA and there are disagreements between family members about finances and health care, a Conservatorship may have to done. A conservatorship is basically a durable POA that is court approved because the incapacitated person (conservatee) cannot make that decision for themselves.
In the above case, it appears the county petitioned and was granted conservatorship.