Guide · 6 min read
Signs an aging parent is being financially exploited
Financial exploitation is one of the most common forms of elder abuse, and it is often done by someone the older person trusts. Here is what to watch for and where to turn.
- Written byOur Nashville detectives
- UpdatedOctober 25, 2026
- Reading time6 minutes
- Related serviceElder financial exploitation
- Watch for sudden changes in banking, new “best friends,” and changes to wills, deeds or powers of attorney.
- Report suspected exploitation to Tennessee Adult Protective Services at 1-888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366).
- Document what you can lawfully see, and involve an elder law attorney.
Warning signs
- Large or unusual withdrawals, checks or transfers
- A new friend, romantic interest or caregiver who isolates your parent from family
- Sudden changes to a will, deed, beneficiary or power of attorney
- Unpaid bills despite enough income
- Missing valuables, or new credit cards in your parent’s name
- Your parent seems fearful, secretive or confused about money
- Gift cards or wire transfers to people they met online or by phone
Where to report
Tennessee APS investigates abuse, neglect and financial exploitation of vulnerable adults. Report at 1-888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366) or online through the Tennessee Department of Human Services. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Banks also have teams that handle elder exploitation; a call to your parent’s bank, with your parent if possible, can stop some transactions.
What families can do
- Talk to your parent calmly, without accusations; exploiters often coach victims to distrust family
- Note dates, amounts and names you are aware of
- Talk to an elder law attorney about powers of attorney, conservatorship and recovery
- Check out new caregivers and advisers before trusting them
How a detective helps
We investigate the person, not your parent: who they really are, their history, other victims, and where money went. See elder financial exploitation investigations and our guide to romance scam signs.
This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and every situation is different; talk to a Tennessee attorney about your case. Last reviewed October 25, 2026.
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How we can help
Licensed Tennessee private detectives, lawful methods, and reports written for the people who will read them.
Who do I call about elder financial abuse in Tennessee?
Tennessee Adult Protective Services at 1-888-APS-TENN (1-888-277-8366). Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger.
Can a private investigator help with elder financial abuse?
Yes. A detective can research the person involved, trace where money went, and document conduct for APS, police and attorneys.
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