Last Will and Embezzlement

Deborah Louise Robinson's documentary short focuses on financial elder abuse, a significant problem that is growing with alarming speed. As a larger segment of the U.S. population moves into old age, a new wave of predators is targeting their savings. Many of the victims are afraid to report this exploitation because of fear of violent repercussions or simple embarrassment, while others are hesitant to sound the alarm because they are being preyed on by family members. But even reporting abuse carries no guarantee that the guilty will be apprehended. Among those who tell their stories here are filmmaker Pamela S.K. Glasner, who recalls how the police refused to arrest a man with no connection to her family who coerced her Alzheimer's-afflicted father into granting him power-of-attorney status. Also interviewed is movie legend Mickey Rooney, who speaks passionately (if somewhat vaguely) about his experience as a victim of financial theft. The film offers solid advice on how to spot warning signs that an older adult is becoming the target of potential embezzlement, and details ways to prevent these early signals from developing into extensive financial transactions. A timely look at a serious social issue, this is highly recommended. Aud: C, P. (P. Hall)