Family Abuse

It is bad enough that elders need to be aware of being taken advantage of from strangers, but abuse is more likely to come from a family member, and it can take many forms.  Stealing money, physical and emotional abuse, disregard for wishes.  Someone I heard of recently had her children sell her furniture while she was out running errands.  How do we protect ourselves?  While there is no perfect way, one way I am is by talking with my children about my wishes and making arrangements to have living arrangements for me in place if needed.