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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Annie’s Mailbox: Report nephew’s behavior as elder abuse

Marcy Sugar and Kathy Mitchell Creators Syndicate

Dear Annie: My mother is 90 years old. She recently loaned one of my nephews a large sum of money to purchase a house. “Todd” and his wife borrowed enough for the house, a new washer and dryer, and then more for homeowners insurance and property taxes. They moved in last August and have not paid anything toward the principal or interest.

My mother took the money from her savings, paid for the property in full, and let the couple put the house in their names. When Mom got the loan agreement papers drawn up, Todd told her he “didn’t feel comfortable signing” and he didn’t. Today, neither Todd nor his wife acknowledge the loan or take responsibility for payments.

In no way was this supposed to be a gift. This was made clear to them when they asked Mom for the money, because they could not get the money from any bank. They agreed to everything until it came time to sign the papers.

Since then, they have refused to answer the door when Mom goes to the house, and will not answer or return phone calls from her. But he still had the nerve to call her when he needed money – and she gave it to him!

My mother has spent most of her savings on Todd, and the pension she receives every month is not enough to cover her expenses. Is this elder abuse? What can we do? – Love My Mom

Dear Love: Taking financial advantage of your mother is indeed a form of elder abuse. The National Center on Elder Abuse (ncea.aoa.gov) lists information about elder abuse, as well as where to report it in your mother’s state. Please do so before any more damage is done.

Please email your questions to anniesmailbox@ comcast.net, or write to: Annie’s Mailbox, c/o Creators Syndicate, 737 Third Street, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254.