Announcement ; Power of Attorney Abuse

Two new “channels” on AARP’s website share information and resources on elder abuse and, more specifically, power of attorney abuse. AARP’s TV show, Inside E Street, aired an episode last week called “License to Steal.” You can watch the show and find links to many resources at:

http://www.aarp.org/aarp/broadcast/Inside_E_Street_License_to_Steal/

The show focuses on addressing power of attorney abuse, using the Brooke Astor case as a graphic example and featuring research and law reform efforts. Guests include Lori Stiegel, author of the AARP Public Policy Institute report Power of Attorney Abuse: What States Can Do About It

http://www.aarp.org/research/legal/legalrights/2008_17_poa.html

Linda Whitton, law professor and Reporter for the Uniform Power of Attorney Act; Bob Blancato, Elder Justice Coalition; Congressman Joe Sestak; and Meryl Gordon, author of Mrs. Astor Regrets.

Ken Onaitis, LMSW
Director, Police Relations & Elder Abuse
Carter Burden Center for the Aging
1484 First Ave.
New York, NY 10075
212-879-7400 x116

onaitisk@burdencntr.org

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We had our own experience wih POA's when our mother Clara G Fernandez who suffered from Dementia and Alzheimer's was "questionable removed" from her home and husband of 59 years . A.J. Fernandez , and made to sign a new POA which was used to close her CD's,Stock accounts,Bond accounts,transfer her Real Estate out of her Trust and otherwise raid her Trust.

The matter ws considered a "civilly matter" and authorities refused to take action and save Clara from losing most assets in her Trust, except for her social security income.

When family pointed out to the authorities that her the new POA that she gave at 87 years old
after having the onset of dementia and alzhaimers, the answer from the authorities was that the POA had a newer data and that was all that mattered, regarless of the circumstances under which it was obtained!