Tennessee Launches 'Let's Talk Seniors' Initiative to Combat Elder Financial Exploitation

The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance’s (TDCI) Securities Division has introduced a groundbreaking training program, “Let’s Talk Seniors”, designed to empower older adults, caregivers, and frontline professionals in identifying and addressing elder financial exploitation.

 

This initiative offers vital insights for seniors, their families, and professionals such as law enforcement officers, emergency medical technicians, firefighters, and financial institution staff. The goal is to help these individuals recognize warning signs and take appropriate action when older adults are at risk of financial harm.

 

TDCI Commissioner Carter Lawrence emphasized the program's significance, stating, “This initiative brings critical education to those best positioned to intervene and protect our most vulnerable citizens.” He also encouraged Tennessee seniors and their loved ones to reach out to TDCI’s Securities team with any questions regarding their financial investments.

 

The “Let’s Talk Seniors” presentation covers several key topics:

 

• Common scams targeting seniors, including investment and romance fraud.
• Red flags indicating financial exploitation, neglect, and cognitive impairment.
• Mandatory and voluntary reporting guidelines.
• Effective and respectful engagement strategies with older adults.
• Trusted community and legal resources for referrals.

 

Financial scams have a significant impact on Tennesseans of all ages. The Federal Trade Commission reported that in 2024, residents lost over $157.2 million to fraud, placing Tennessee 21st nationwide for fraud reports. Additionally, there were more than 14,000 identity theft reports, ranking the state 24th in the nation.

 

Elizabeth Bowling, TDCI Assistant Commissioner for Securities, highlighted the vulnerability of many older Tennesseans due to social isolation and distance from support networks. She noted, “This important initiative gives caregivers the tools they need to recognize the signs of elder financial exploitation and intervene before it’s too late.”

 

Participants in the training will gain up-to-date information on the financial exploitation of older adults in the U.S., learn about factors that increase vulnerability, recognize signs of abuse, and understand the types of scams targeting seniors. The program concludes with actionable education and resources on preventing and reporting exploitation.

 

Developed in partnership with the North American Securities Administrators Association (NASAA), “Let’s Talk Seniors” reflects TDCI’s commitment to protecting consumers, particularly investors, from fraud and abuse, thereby ensuring the integrity of financial markets.

 

For more information about “Let’s Talk Seniors” and other financial education programs, contact TDCI’s Securities team at (615) 741-2947 or 800-863-9117 (toll-free), or visit their website.

 

If you suspect elder abuse, contact the Tennessee Department of Human Services, Adult Protective Services Unit at (888) 277-8366 or online. In cases of immediate danger, reach out to your local law enforcement agency.

 

In Sumner County, local organizations are also taking steps to support financial stability among residents. The United Way of Sumner County partners with individuals, nonprofits, and businesses to break down financial barriers and build long-term stability. Their initiatives include job readiness programs, adult education, and job training to help individuals achieve financial independence.

 

Additionally, the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has launched the SafeSenior TN campaign, an online resource center aimed at educating and protecting Tennesseans from fraud and abuse. The campaign provides guidance on financial, personal safety, and technology to help protect seniors from crime.

 

By combining state initiatives like “Let’s Talk Seniors” with local efforts in Sumner County, Tennessee is taking a comprehensive approach to safeguard its senior population from financial exploitation.