In Arlington, Massachusetts, the decline of Dr. Louis Braida—an accomplished scientist who spent his career studying how humans hear and communicate— became the backdrop for a devastating case of elder financial exploitation. After three strokes and the onset of dementia, he needed help with daily living and began receiving in-home care.

One caregiver, who often went by the name Fatimah, gradually became central to his life. She was in the home regularly, managing much of his day-to-day routine. From the beginning, Dr. Braida’s sister, Mary Massey, felt uneasy. The caregiver spoke of how much he “loved” her, mentioned being included in his will, and raised the idea of gaining power of attorney. For a vulnerable older adult with cognitive decline, those are serious warning signs.

Massey also noticed how the caregiver controlled access to her brother. Phone calls were screened. Visits were monitored. When she asked about financial matters and legal documents, the caregiver stepped in, cut conversations short, or suggested Massey was upsetting him. Over time, that kind of gatekeeping can isolate an older adult from the very people most likely to protect them.

Concerned, the family reached out to local authorities and regional aging services to report possible financial exploitation. At several points, they were told that he appeared well cared for and content at home. Meanwhile, legal control was shifting. Within days of one report, Dr. Braida signed paperwork granting the caregiver power of attorney, giving her broad authority over his finances and decisions.

It was not until 2022 that a probate court intervened, authorizing a freeze on his accounts and a closer look at his finances. By then, an expert had documented dementia and significant cognitive impairment. A subsequent investigation found that the caregiver had taken roughly $1.4 million through excessive “salary,” transfers, and other financial benefits. Court records describe a pattern of undue influence and control for personal gain.

The caregiver ultimately agreed to a civil settlement of $500,000 with the family. Dr. Braida died later that year. His case has prompted renewed scrutiny of how Massachusetts protects older adults who receive care at home, and how agencies, clinicians, and families can work together to spot red flags before the damage is done.

What Families and Care Teams Should Watch For

Abuse and exploitation by in-home caregivers are not the norm. Most aides provide compassionate, ethical care. Still, this case underscores why vigilance matters. Key warning signs include:

• Isolation and gatekeeping: A caregiver limits phone calls, visits, or private conversations with family or trusted friends.
• Rapid changes in authority: A caregiver seeks power of attorney, access to bank accounts, or control over bills and documents.
• Talk of wills and inheritances: Frequent mention of being added to a will or receiving large “gifts” from the older adult.
• Uncharacteristic financial activity: Sudden withdrawals, large checks, new credit lines, or unexplained expenses.
• Personality or behavior changes: The older adult becomes suddenly anxious, withdrawn, confused about money, or overly reliant on one caregiver’s opinion.
• Pushback when you ask questions: A caregiver becomes defensive, angry, or evasive when finances or legal documents are discussed.

Steps You Can Take to Protect Older Adults

Everyone involved in care—families, home care agencies, clinicians, and community partners—has a role in prevention:

• Separate caregiving from financial control. Avoid granting power of attorney or access to accounts to the in-home caregiver. Instead, designate a trusted family member or professional fiduciary.
• Hire through reputable providers when possible. Agencies that are licensed, accredited, and insured can provide oversight, supervision, and a clearer reporting path if concerns arise.
• Stay present and involved. Regular visits, phone calls, and video check-ins make it harder for exploitation to go unnoticed and help the older adult feel supported.
• Document what you see. If something feels off, write down dates, conversations, and specific concerns. This record can be critical if you need to escalate a report.
• Act early if something doesn’t look right. You do not need proof to raise a concern. Trust your instincts and seek help.

Where to Report Concerns in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, suspected elder abuse—including financial exploitation—should be reported to Adult Protective Services. They accept confidential reports 24/7 at 800-922-2275.

You can also file a report online through the Executive Office of Aging & Independence. For more details on this case, see coverage at:  https://www.wcvb.com/article/after-home-health-aide-admits-to-taking-14-million-in-mass-seniors-funds-a-call-for-reform/69266305 

Financial exploitation of older adults may be rare, but when it happens, the impact is life-altering. Early detection and a willingness to speak up are the strongest tools we have to protect older adults and honor their wishes.