Washington, DC - July 30, 2024 - In a significant step towards combating elder financial exploitation, a recent meeting convened by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from faith-based organizations - including the Shia Muslim Foundation, community leaders, and elder advocacy groupsThe meeting aimed to address the critical need for education and resources to support clergy and older adults in identifying and reporting elder abuse.
A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the limited training clergy receive on elder abuse, particularly financial exploitation. Despite frequently encountering such cases, many clergy view them as isolated incidents rather than recognizing the broader patterns of abuse. Participants underscored the necessity of educating clergy on elder abuse reporting requirements and available resources to ensure they are better equipped to protect vulnerable older adults within their congregations.
The meeting also highlighted the powerful impact of peer education among older adults. An inspiring example shared involved a group of women at a church who successfully intervened when one of their peers was targeted by a gift card scam, a common tactic in financial exploitation. This story underscores the importance of collaboration between clergy and older adults to raise awareness and prevent abuse within faith communities.
However, reluctance to report elder abuse remains a challenge for many clergy. Concerns about overstepping the autonomy of older adults and potential consequences of reporting were discussed. The need to balance respecting the agency of older adults while helping them recognize and address abuse was emphasized.
Another key point was the widespread misunderstanding of Adult Protective Services (APS). APS representatives clarified that their primary focus is on the wishes of the older adult, with most cases being voluntary and emphasizing confidentiality. APS aims to empower older adults rather than diminish their decision-making capabilities.
The desire to maintain trust within the community, especially when the perpetrator is a known member, further complicates reporting. A lack of understanding about what constitutes elder abuse and the associated shame were identified as barriers that need to be addressed through education and awareness initiatives.
Faith communities often focus on the struggles of perpetrators rather than recognizing the abuse itself. For example, a relative who exploits an older adult during a time of grief might be viewed as someone with broader life issues rather than an abuser. Elevating the importance of addressing elder abuse within faith communities is crucial.
Isolation tactics used in elder abuse, such as restricting the older adult's involvement in the congregation, pose additional challenges for clergy in identifying and addressing abuse. Equitable financial exploitation, including reverse mortgages and deceptive financial products, has particularly impacted immigrant families, highlighting the need for targeted education and support.
Rahat Husain, Executive Director of the Shia Muslim Foundation, emphasized the importance of this meeting, stating, "Addressing elder financial exploitation is crucial for the well-being of our community. This meeting with the CFPB has provided valuable insights and resources that will empower clergy and community leaders to better protect our older adults. Collaboration and education are key to ensuring that our elders can live with dignity and security."
The CFPB meeting marks a significant step forward in the fight against elder financial exploitation, fostering collaboration and providing essential resources to support and protect older adults within faith communities.
