Exploitation of seniors in the United States is a major and growing problem. Cases of fraud by family members are particularly troublesome and sometimes very difficult to spot.  Advance planning and open communication before a problem arises are key protections against this form of abuse.  As awareness of the problem grows, more tools and resources are becoming available to seniors and their care-givers.  Michael J. Edgel is quoted in this fantastic article on spotting and avoiding elder family fraud.