How do I stop neighbors from trying to take advantage of mentally disabled friend that I take care of Legally.

You're in a tough situation, but there are legal and practical steps you can take to protect your friend while maintaining her autonomy and dignity. Here’s how you can approach it:

1. Establish Boundaries with Neighbors

Be Direct but Polite: If neighbors are calling or asking intrusive questions, calmly let them know that your friend’s personal and financial matters are private and not up for discussion.

For example:

"Hi, I wanted to ask for your understanding. [Friend's Name] is vulnerable due to her condition, and it's important that personal questions about her finances or living situation aren’t asked. I’m here to help her with these matters."

Document the Conversations: Keep a record of any interactions where neighbors cross boundaries or ask inappropriate questions.

2. Educate Your Friend in Simple Terms

Set Up Visual Reminders: Use sticky notes or posters near the phone or computer with messages like:

“Do not share passwords or financial information with anyone.”

“Say: ‘You can talk to [Your Name] about that.’”

Role-Playing Exercises: Practice with her how to respond when asked intrusive questions. For example, teach her to say, “I’m not comfortable answering that,” or, “You should talk to [Your Name].”

3. Strengthen Financial Safeguards

Minimize Access to Funds: Use accounts with restricted access or require dual authorization for large transactions.

Secure Important Information: Store sensitive documents like her Social Security card and passwords securely, where only you have access.

Fraud Alerts: Consider placing a fraud alert on her credit file to prevent identity theft.
4. Involve Authorities if Necessary

Police Involvement: If neighbors persist in prying or asking for financial details, contact local law enforcement or community resources. Explain the situation calmly, and ask for advice on protecting a vulnerable adult from exploitation.

Adult Protective Services (APS): If you suspect someone is actively trying to exploit her, file a report with APS. They can investigate and intervene as needed.

5. Legal Protections

Power of Attorney: If you don’t already have one, ensure you have legal authority to manage her finances and make decisions on her behalf.

Restraining Orders: If a neighbor’s behavior becomes predatory or harassing, you may need to seek a restraining order.

6. Strengthen Social Support

Trusted Allies: Encourage a small circle of trusted friends or family members to provide support and be additional sets of eyes and ears.

Community Groups: Connect her with local disability or mental health advocacy organizations. They may offer programs or volunteers to help her maintain independence while staying safe.

Key Phrases for Neighbors

When speaking to neighbors, you can say:

“Thank you for checking in, but I handle all of [Friend's Name]’s personal and financial matters now. Let me know if you have concerns, and I’ll address them.”

“I appreciate your interest, but we need to respect [Friend's Name]’s privacy and boundaries.”

Your protective instincts are admirable. With the right balance of boundaries, education, and legal measures, you can help ensure her safety and well-being while managing your responsibilities effectively.