Nursing Home Abuse News

Pre-paid Funeral Scam Targets Elderly

Insurance Commissioner Steve Poizner today alerted senior citizens and their families to make certain they or their loved ones are not victims of a pre-paid funeral scam which targeted the elderly in Southern California. A California Department of Insurance (CDI) investigation found that the former owner of Valley Funeral Home in Murrieta sold "pre-need" burial plans to senior citizens, including residents of area nursing homes, then pocketed the premiums and left her elderly clients without funeral coverage.

Lee Ann Wyskiver, 55, was arrested at her home on April 5, 2007 by CDI investigators and the Escondido Police Department. Wyskiver is charged with six felony counts including Grand Theft and Financial Elder Abuse. She was booked into the Escondido jail, and bail was set at $50,000. The Riverside County District Attorney's office is prosecuting the case. Read more at insurance.ca.gov.

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	Did You Know?
	Anyone can report nursing home abuse and neglect. Anyone can and should report abuse and neglect. It is a violation of state and federal law for any person, including facility staff, volunteers, visitors, family members or guardians, or another resident, to abuse or neglect a resident. If you suspect abuse or neglect, or if a resident tells you they are experiencing this problem, it is important to believe the resident and report the allegation immediately. This will help prevent further suffering by any resident. Many states have laws that require the reporting of abuse and neglect. Find out what your state requires. Put your report in writing, date it, and keep a copy. Convey as much information as you can about the situation. Provide as much background information as possible. A thorough report will help the investigator to address the situation quickly.