Exploitation

What does exploitation mean? According to the Washington Administrative Code (WAC) exploitation is defined as: an act of forcing, compelling or exerting undue influence over a resident causing the resident to act in a way that is inconsistent with relevant past behavior or causing the resident to perform services for the benefit of another (not their usual behavior). Because our elderly are often lonely or isolated due to inability to get out anyone extending a friendly hand is often welcomed. To help an elderly person not be a victim of exploitation when asking how they are doing be specific. Ask them how they are getting their groceries, assist them to utilize community available transport or locate grocery stores that offer a delivery service. When there is a scam reported in the news let the elderly people in your life know about the scam and how to protect themselves. The most important safeguard is to have frequent contact and if possible visit often. If you believe someone has been the victim of exploitation call the complaint resolution unit or Adult protective services for your area.